Automation Engineer

Position Objective:Support the internal screening teams through the design, development, and implementation of biochemical and cell-based screening processes on liquid handling workstations and integrated systems. Gain an understanding of internal screening programs and current automation to properly assess the best use of each instrument and quickly troubleshoot problems as they arise. Improve screening throughput and robustness through process improvements and increased use of automation. Must be able to multi-task in a fast-pace environment, quickly addressing day-to-day issues and yet still remain focused on prioritized tasks. Excellent organization, time-management, record-keeping, and communication skills are essential. A self-motivated individual that is detail-oriented and can function both independently as well as part of a team is required. Experience with HTS; biochemical and cell-based assays; and screening automation development, integration, and programming are highly desirable.Essential Functions:• Work with the screening teams to identify critical bottlenecks.• Independently execute on team-oriented development plans to improve throughput and robustness of screening processes.• Program liquid handlers, integrated systems, and multi-axis robots using vendor- supplied software and custom-written code in Visual Basic and other instrument-specific languages.• Create redundant workstation methods to allow for parallel screening and backups for instrumentation undergoing repair/maintenance.• Maintain and QC all automated equipment and coordinate service for repair and preventative maintenance, minimizing down-time to screening efforts.• Ensure proper use of automation by end-users.• Evaluate new automation and processes to increase throughput.• Assist with the development of screening processes for new services.• Support on-site automation and processes and provide remote assistance to the UK screening site with their systems.• Respond quickly to changing priorities and handle multiple projects with potentially overlapping deadlines.• Comply with all company safety regulations and procedures.• May be required to perform other related duties as required and/or assigned.Nature and Scope:Perform duties independently with only general direction given. Has the ability to understand the importance of projects and technology assessment efforts toward Company’s objectives. Job encounters recurring work situations with frequent variations from the norm, involving a high degree of complexity. Works on extremely complex problems where analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth evaluation of various factors. Accuracy is required in performing all functions of this position. Mistakes in work could cause substantial data errors.Education:Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Engineering, or other related discipline, or the equivalent knowledge and experience is required. Experience:Requires a minimum of 4 years experience in a relevant work environment with a Bachelor’s degree. A minimum of 2 years working with automation equipment utilized in HTS. Demonstrated working knowledge of scientific principles. Proven proficiency in developing customer-driven automated processes to improve screening capacities. Demonstrated competence in utilizing new techniques, procedures, and technologies for HTS required. Excellent time management skills and ability to work independently required. Proven ability to troubleshoot difficult issues and lead in the development of a solution. Excellent verbal and written communication skills required. Experience with HTS; biochemical and cell-based assays; and screening automation development, integration, and programming are highly desirable.Contacts:Contacts typically include those inside the company such as the US and UK screening teams, colleagues in other departments, and supervisor as well as others outside the company including automation providers. Contacts are usually made on own initiative concerning matters requiring explanation, discussion, evaluation, interpretation, or approvals.Working Conditions:Works in a laboratory environment with HTS automation (liquid handlers, small industrial robots, etc) and at a computer terminal.Invitrogen is proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring a diverse and inclusive workforce.