Lead Automation Engineer, Next-Gen Sequencing Platforms

Roche; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 111,000 - 206,000; Full time

Job summary

Roche in Santa Clara, CA is seeking a Principal Automation Research Engineer to advance end-to-end automation for next-generation sequencing platforms. You will translate complex workflows into reliable scripts, test performance, and collaborate with Assay Development Scientists, Hardware Engineers, Software Developers and Product Managers.

This hands-on role requires independence, strong problem-solving skills, experience with XML and Python, AI-assisted coding tools, and CAD/ SolidWorks for

Qualifications

• Degree in Bioengineering or Biomedical Engineering or related field, with experience: 7+ years with Bachelor's, 5+ with Master’s, or 3+ with PhD.
• Deep understanding of chemistry and molecular biology, sequencing chemistry and workflows.
• Hands-on experience characterizing and testing complex automation systems for sequencing or diagnostics.
• Experience using AI-assisted tools to accelerate code generation, parse schemas, and automate test cases.
• Experience with markup and programming languages (XML, Python, or proprietary scripting environments) used to define automated instrument steps and hardware execution.
• Solid experience in experimental design.
• Proficiency with machine shop tools, measurement equipment, and rapid prototyping.

Responsibilities

• Utilize AI-assisted coding and modern software development tools to accelerate protocol generation, protocol simulation, debugging, test suite development, and automated error recovery.
• Translate complex manual workflows into highly reliable automated scripts.
• Test scripts and validate system performance through analytical equipment and data analysis pipelines.
• Contribute to architecture, design, research and development of next-generation automation platforms; design, build, assemble and operate custom test fixtures.
• Translate high-level system and assay requirements into fluidic schematics and system architectures.

Skills

AI-assisted coding

XML

Python

Automation testing

Protocol generation

Data analysis pipelines

Experimental design

CAD / SolidWorks

Education

Bioengineering or Biomedical Engineering degree

Tools

SolidWorks

CAD tools

Job description

Roche in Santa Clara, CA is seeking a Principal Automation Research Engineer to advance end-to-end automation for next-generation sequencing platforms. You will translate complex workflows into reliable scripts, test performance, and collaborate with Assay Development Scientists, Hardware Engineers, Software Developers and Product Managers.

This hands-on role requires independence, strong problem-solving skills, experience with XML and Python, AI-assisted coding tools, and CAD/ SolidWorks for