Sr. Lab Robotics Automation Engineer

Under the direction of the Sr. Automation Manager, the Senior Lab Robotics Automation Engineer will leverage technical expertise, R&D experience, creative problem-solving, and collaboration skills to contribute to the design, implementation, and reliability of advanced robotics and automation solutions, aiming to enhance laboratory efficiency, accuracy, and scalability.

This professional will work in a 100% onsite capacity out of our Lewisville, TX location.

• Utilize automated systems software to program and schedule methods, teach labware positions, create custom liquid classes, and perform related testing of relevant laboratory robotics and automation. (e.g., Tecan, Hamilton, Agilent etc.)
• Design automated workflow protocols, code custom scripts, define teach point verification strategies, draft instrument performance qualification and maintenance documentation, and train operational staff on proper utilization of all the related systems.
• Collaborate with development and bioinformatics teams to build and test requirements for a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to interface with automated workflows.
• Collaborate with laboratory personnel in defining instrument user interface and experience (UI/UX) requirements.
• Develop, plan, and conduct complex experiments within a specific product or technology area, adhering to defined protocols and company procedures.
• Accurately record and report experimental results, prepare detailed documentation, summarize findings, interpret outcomes, and recommend alternative experiments when necessary.
• Work within established parameters on individual assignments and project teams for longer-term projects. Present, report, and update to supervisor or project team members and contribute ideas to improve team processes.
• Participate in technical decisions affecting product development issues. Identify problems, investigate alternatives and recommend possible courses of action.
• Work with team members and other Business Unit personnel (operations, product transfer, project management, and quality departments) to meet department and project objectives.
• Collaborate with manufacturer and vendor service representatives for instrument maintenance, repair, and installation, and may serve as a technical resource by participating in the service and preventive maintenance of robotic instrumentation.
• Provide training for laboratory personnel in proper equipment operation, preventive maintenance and repair techniques, which may include travel to other sites.
• Work closely with the technical department to address and troubleshoot issues or difficulties associated with instruments during instrument downtime.
• May attend specialized training programs to remain current with changes in existing instrumentation and establish proficiency in new technology.
• May attend technical conferences or seminars in addition to staying informed on technological developments by reading current literature. Effectively apply enhanced automated and scientific methods or technologies, contributing ideas for new product development within existing markets.
• Collaborate with scientific staff and the technical departments in the evaluation of equipment purchases and validation of new assays on complex analytical instrumentation.
• Acts as a liaison with R&D and the Operations team and the department managers to coordinate and accomplish the implementation of the new tests and modifications.
• Coordinate and plan the moves of instrumentations to new designated spaces in collaboration with the laboratory and facilities departments. 
• Responsible for independently managing time, projects, and assigned tasks. Ensures that project goals and objectives are achieved within the specified timeframe.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory agency requirements through documentation, audits and corrective action.
• Perform other tasks as specified by the manager or director.

Required Work Experience: 

• Minimum of 3-6 years experience with laboratory automation and robotics. Requires 3 years of relevant experience with a Ph.D., at least 4 years with a Master's degree, or at least 6 years with a Bachelor's degree, typically acquired in an academic or industrial setting.

Preferred Work Experience:

• 4+ years of experience with in programming, developing, and testing robotics and automated instrumentation from manufacturers. (e.g., Hamilton, Tecan, or Agilent)
• 3+ years of experience with integrated robotic systems and related scheduling software. (e.g., HighRes, Biosero, or custom solutions)
• 3+ years of service engineer experience with an instrument vendor is a plus.
• Experience with programming languages such as Python, C++, Java, and C#.
• Research experience in a clinical laboratory environment.

Physical and Mental Requirements: 

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to use hands to handle or feel objects, tools or controls, and reach with hands and arms in the operation of equipment or instruments located in the work environment.
• The employee is frequently required to sit and stand; and is occasionally required to walk and stoop
• The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and depth perception.
• Job duties are performed in a laboratory environment utilizing standard lab equipment and PPE.
• Some operations include the use of chemicals which require following safe handling procedures.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate
• Work performed in designated areas may require the use of appropriate safety precautions and protective equipment.
• Must be able to work in a biohazard environment and comply with safety policies and procedures outlined in the Environmental Health & Safety Manual.

Knowledge: 

• Knowledge of lab operations
• Ability to work with and coordinate vendors and contracts

Skills: 

• Strong computer skills with programming languages such as Python, C++, Java and C#
• Must be able to work in a fast paced, multi-tasking environment and maintain production and quality standards determined by the department.

Work Environment:

• Travel Up to 5%