Principal Automation Software Engineer

Sanofi; Waltham (MA); On-site; USD 130,000 - 185,000; Full time

Job summary

Sanofi in Framingham, MA is seeking a Principal Automation Software Engineer to design, develop, test, and deploy software for laboratory automation systems. You will program and integrate instruments, robots, and data workflows, collaborating with scientists and engineers to optimize processes and data quality.

Responsibilities include building instrument control software, APIs, and workflow orchestration, plus creating automated data collection and reporting tools, with a focus on scalable,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field with 5+ years of experience OR Master's with 3+ years OR PhD with 2+ years post-degree experience.
• Experience in full-stack software for lab automation and instrument integration.
• Proficiency in Python, C++, C#, Java, or JavaScript.
• Familiarity with LIMS/ELN/SDMS and REST APIs; cloud and container tech.
• Experience in regulated environments (GxP) preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, test, and deploy software for laboratory automation systems.
• Program and integrate laboratory instruments, liquid handlers, robotic workcells, and devices.
• Develop instrument control software, APIs, drivers, and workflow orchestration.

Skills

Python

C++

C#

Java

JavaScript

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree

PhD

Tools

REST APIs

Cloud platforms

Kubernetes

LIMS

ELN

SDMS

SQL

NoSQL

Job description

Job title: Principal Automation Software Engineer

• Location: Framingham, MA

About The Job

The Bioanalytics Automation Lab is looking for an automation software engineer to join our team. The individual in this role will be responsible for developing, maintaining, and deploying software solutions that automate laboratory instruments, robotics, sample handling systems, and associated data workflows. Works closely with scientists, engineers, and vendors to integrate instrumentation, optimize processes, and improve laboratory efficiency and data quality. Are you ready to shape the future of medicine? Your skills could be critical in helping our teams accelerate Progress. Join our Bioanalytics Automation Lab as a Principal Automation Software Engineer and you’ll apply modern robotics and software development to expedite the drug development process at Sanofi. Join the engine of Sanofi’s mission — where deep immunoscience meets bold, AI-powered research. In R&D, you’ll drive breakthroughs that could turn the impossible into possible for millions.

About Sanofi

We’re an R&D-driven, AI-powered biopharma company committed to improving people’s lives and delivering compelling growth. Our deep understanding of the immune system – and innovative pipeline – enables us to invent medicines and vaccines that treat and protect millions of people around the world. Together, we chase the miracles of science to improve people’s lives.

Main Responsibilities

• Design, develop, test, and deploy software applications for laboratory automation systems.
• Program and integrate laboratory instruments, liquid handlers, robotic workcells, and peripheral devices.
• Develop instrument control software, APIs, drivers, and workflow orchestration solutions.
• Create automated data collection, processing, and reporting tools.
• Collaborate with scientists and laboratory personnel to understand requirements and translate them into automation solutions.
• Troubleshoot hardware, software, and communication issues involving automated equipment.
• Integrate laboratory automation platforms with LIMS, ELN, databases, and enterprise systems.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, user guides, and software validation records.

About you:

• A Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Information Systems, Electrical Engineering, Bioengineering, or a related field with a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience.
• OR Master’s Degree in the previous fields mentioned with a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience.
• OR PhD in the previous fields mentioned with a minimum of 2 years of post-degree industry experience.
• Candidates from other technical disciplines with demonstrated software development experience in the pharmaceutical or life sciences industry will also be considered.

Experience

• Demonstrated experience developing and deploying full-stack software solution for lab automation platforms in a professional environment, with proficiency in one or more programming languages Python, C++, C#, Java, or JavaScript.
• Hands-on experience with hardware and instrument integration, along with a solid background working with APIs, databases, and network communications.
• Candidates should possess knowledge of laboratory workflows within pharmaceutical, biotechnology, diagnostics, or life sciences environments.
• Hands-on experience with REST APIs, cloud-based applications, container orchestration platforms.
• Familiarity with laboratory informatics systems (e.g., LIMS, ELN, SDMS or similar platforms).

Preferred

• Experience with laboratory automation platforms such as Hamilton, Dynamic Devices, HighRes Biosolutions, Retisoft, or comparable integrators is highly desirable.
• Experience with SQL and NoSQL databases, Git-based version control.
• Experience working within GxP or other regulated environments will be considered a strong asset.
• Experience or interest in programming robotic automation technologies.

Soft Skills

• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills are essential, as are excellent communication and collaboration abilities, given the cross‑functional nature of the role.

Why Choose Us?

• Make your work count by supporting a company that brings life‑changing treatments to millions — and is committed to doing right by patients, communities, and the planet.
• Drive progress from within by helping simplify, scale, and modernize how a global biopharma business delivers smarter, faster, and more sustainably.
• Support teams across science, medicine, and operations by building better systems, shaping bold strategies, and enabling innovation at speed.
• Make an impact across borders and functions, collaborating with leaders to turn complex challenges into real‑world solutions.
• Advance your career through stretch roles, cross‑functional moves, and development opportunities designed to match your ambition.
• Thrive in inclusive, high‑performing teams where every role matters and every voice helps shape what’s next.

Sanofi US Services and its U.S. affiliates are Equal Opportunity employers committed to a culturally inclusive workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race; color; creed; religion; national origin; age; ancestry; nationality; marital, domestic partnership or civil union status; sex, gender, gender identity or expression; affectional or sexual orientation; disability; veteran or military status or liability for military status; domestic violence victim status; atypical cellular or blood trait; genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing) or any other characteristic protected by law. #GD-SG #vhd All compensation will be determined commensurate with demonstrated experience. Employees may be eligible to participate in Company employee benefit programs, and additional benefits information can be found here.