Engineer I
Job Title: Engineer I – Laboratory Automation
Department: Translational Sciences
Location: San Rafael, CA
Pay Rate: $45.98/ HR or 95k annually
The Center of Technology (CoTe) is a centralized laboratory dedicated to platform technologies that support scientists and physicians across Worldwide Research and Development (WWRD) at our pharma client. The Laboratory Automation Core within the CoTe specializes in designing and building automated solutions for high throughput screening. We collaborate with scientists to develop automated assays that expedite the discovery process. Our facility is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including Hamilton STAR, Agilent Bravo, and Biomek FXP liquid handlers integrated with plate readers, plate sealers, incubators, and cell imagers, to create efficient drug discovery platforms.
We are looking for a motivated Associate Engineer or Engineer I to join the Laboratory Automation Core. The ideal candidate should be eager to learn new laboratory automation techniques, detail-oriented, capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously, and possess strong organizational skills. This role demands adaptability, creativity, and a commitment to innovation in the pursuit of cutting-edge science.
This position offers a unique opportunity to work on diverse projects spanning the entire product lifecycle, from early drug discovery and non-clinical research through clinical and commercial development. The successful candidate will contribute to the design, implementation, and maintenance of automation solutions for high-throughput biology protocols, such as NGS workflows, iPSC cell culture, and various in vitro biochemical and cell-based assays.
Responsibilities:
- Assist in designing, implementing, and maintaining new lab automation systems.
- Operate robotic platforms to execute biological protocols, evaluate operational efficiency, and prioritize process improvements.
- Conduct experiments to validate the functionality and performance of lab automation systems, troubleshoot issues, and implement enhancements.
- Collaborate with contract research organizations and lab operations teams to ensure a steady supply of consumables for automated solutions. Provide technical training and support to laboratory personnel for existing and new automation processes, equipment, and technologies.
- Facilitate onsite visits and collaborations with automation vendors and contractors.
- Thoroughly document all work in an electronic notebook (Benchling).
Skills:
- 0-2 years of experience for Associate Engineer or a minimum of 2 years for Engineer I in the Biotech/Pharmaceutical Industry with exposure to lab automation equipment (liquid handling, robotic arms, etc.).
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with cross-functional teams, scientists, and engineers.
- A solid understanding of laboratory processes and workflows and the ability to translate them into automation requirements.
- Some programming experience in any language (e.g., Python, Java, C++) is a plus.
- Experience in operating plate-based liquid handlers (e.g., Vantage, Star, Bravo, Lynx, Tempest, Echo) is a plus.
Education:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biotechnology, Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, or related fields.
- Established expertise in molecular biology, protein chemistry, analytical chemistry, instrumental analysis, proteomics, genomics, or a related field.
This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a dynamic team at the forefront of laboratory automation in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry. If you have the required skills and a passion for innovation, we encourage you to apply.
Please submit a resume in Word or PDF format to be considered.