Automation Engineer

Position Overview:

XtalPi is seeking a highly motivated and talented Automation Engineer to join our new automation lab in Boston. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in developing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems to streamline laboratory workflows and enhance efficiency in drug discovery and development processes.

Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify automation opportunities and requirements across various stages of XtalPi's robotics technology.
• Design, develop, and implement automated solutions for laboratory instrumentation, data acquisition, and sample handling processes.
• Integrate laboratory instruments, robotics, and software platforms to create seamless automation workflows.
• Program and configure automation systems using scripting languages (e.g., Python, JavaScript, C++) and automation software (e.g., LabVIEW, Beckhoff TwinCAT).
• Conduct testing, troubleshooting, and optimization of automated systems to ensure reliability, accuracy, and performance.
• Provide training and support to laboratory personnel for operating automated systems and troubleshooting technical issues.
• Collaborate with vendors and external partners to evaluate new automation technologies and integrate them into existing laboratory workflows.
• Maintain documentation, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and quality assurance protocols for automated processes.
• Stay abreast of advancements in automation technologies, robotics, and laboratory informatics to continuously improve laboratory efficiency and productivity.
• Adhere to safety regulations, compliance standards, and best practices in laboratory automation and operation.

Qualifications:

• Master's degree in engineering, computer science, or a related field. PhD a plus.
• 1-3 years of relevant industrial experience in laboratory automation, robotics, or process automation.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, JavaScript, or similar for automation and control.
• Hands-on experience with automation software and platforms (e.g., LabVIEW, Beckhoff TwinCAT, Siemens PLC).
• Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation and workflows in pharmaceutical or biotechnology research settings.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot technical issues in automated systems.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively in a multidisciplinary and fast-paced team environment.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to quality, accuracy, and compliance in laboratory operations.
• Prior experience in drug discovery, high-throughput screening, or computational chemistry (preferred but not required).