Senior Software Automation Engineer

MSD; Gaithersburg (MD); On-site; USD 101,000 - 155,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

401(k) plan

Paid leave

Job summary

MSD is seeking a software engineer to design and program high-performance automation systems for manufacturing and R&D in a GMP/ISO environment. You will work with cross-functional teams to expand production capacity and ensure robust automation software across hardware and sensors.

The role emphasizes C# .NET development, machine vision, and integration of PLC/robotic components, with opportunities to influence product development and process improvements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required in Computer Science, Software Engineering or related discipline.
• 3–5 years working experience in automation equipment software design.
• 3–5 years programming experience using C# .NET in Agile teams.
• Prior experience with machine vision and image processing preferred.
• Experience with XML, SQL, industrial networking, communication protocols, GUI design and database management preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop programs to control manufacturing and R&D equipment.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to expand capacity through automation.
• Configure, validate, and troubleshoot automation software.
• Write requirements and technical documents including release notes and instructions.
• Participate in design/code reviews and milestone reviews.
• Coordinate with external vendors to source equipment and components.
• Support new product development based on research and analysis.

Skills

Automation software

C# .NET

C++

Visual Basic

Machine vision

XML

SQL

GUI design

Industrial networking

Image processing

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field

Tools

Visual Basic

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

Design and program high performance robotics automation, assembly and/or inspection systems for automated reagent dispensing systems, micro-plate test kits and micro-fluidic assay cartridges used in the biodefense, clinical, and life-science markets. This individual will work closely with cross-functional teams to support the needs of new product development programs and expand the capacity of existing manufacturing lines through automation. Additional job duties include the configuration, validation and troubleshooting of automation system hardware and software.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design and develop new programs to control manufacturing and R&D equipment and maintain the existing programs.
• Closely work with cross-functional teams to support the needs of new product development programs and expand the capacity of existing manufacturing lines through automation.
• Configure, validate, and troubleshoot automation software.
• Write requirement and technical documents including release notes and work instructions
• Participate in design and code review and milestone reviews.
• Interact with outside vendors to source equipment and components.
• Support new product development based on research and analysis.
• Specific duties may vary depending upon department requirements

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering or other related science or engineering discipline is required.
• 3-5 years working experience in automation equipment software design. Prior experience with industrial robots, motors, controllers, and/or digital and analog sensors is required.
• 3-5 years programming experience using C# .NET in agile teams is required.
• Prior experience with machine vision and image processing is preferred.
• Experience with XML, SQL, industrial networking, communication protocols, GUI design and database management is preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• In-depth knowledge of full lifecycle software development for automation systems.
• Working knowledge of Visual Basic and C++ is a plus.
• Demonstrate ability to develop, integrate and validate systems, in a GMP, ISO or other regulated production environment for pharmaceuticals, biotech or medical devices manufacturing is a plus.
• Working knowledge of the manufacture of FDA regulated devices and experience in the health care field is a plus.
• Strong programming fundamentals and analytical background.
• Logical problem solving and demonstrated ability to organize and move project tasks forward in an orderly and structured fashion.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively communicate issues/problems and results that impact timelines, accuracy and reliability of project data.
• A wide degree of creativity and latitude is expected including the ability to multi-task and work productively in a demanding environment with changing priorities.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This position requires the ability to communicate and exchange information, utilize equipment necessary to perform the job, and move about the office.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Standard office environment;
• Standard engineering lab environment.

COMPENSATION SUMMARY

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $101,400 to $154,700. This salary range represents a general guideline as MSD considers other factors when presenting an offer of employment, such as scope and responsibilities of the position, external market factors, and the candidate’s knowledge, skills, abilities, education and experience. Employees may qualify for a discretionary or non-discretionary bonus in addition to their base salary. These annual bonuses are intended to recognize individual performance and enable employees to benefit from the Company’s overall success.

BENEFITS SUMMARY

At MSD, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and financial security. In addition to competitive salaries, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with prescription benefits. We provide a 401(k) plan with company matching, flexible spending accounts, and company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance as well as group life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance. Our offerings also encompass paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid holidays, and paid parental leave, along with an employee assistance program. Additional voluntary perks include a fitness club membership contribution, pet insurance, identity theft protection, home and auto insurance discounts, and optional supplemental life insurance.

EEO/AA STATEMENT

MSD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, age, protected veteran status, pregnancy, disability status or any other protected characteristic. For our full EEO/AA and Pay Transparency statement, please visit here. Meso Scale Diagnostics uses E-Verify to validate the work eligibility of candidates.