Senior Automation Engineer, Laboratory Automation – Analytical Sciences

AstraZeneca · Santa Monica · $103,286–$154,930 (stated in the posting)

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We are seeking an accomplished Senior Automation Engineer to join the Laboratory Automation team within Analytical Sciences. This fully on-site role is based in Santa Monica, California. Reporting to the Associate Director of Laboratory Automation, you will develop, implement, and optimize automation solutions for cell-based, immunological, and genomic assays. You will own deliverables, maintain momentum, and proactively communicate progress, risks, decisions, and resource needs. The role combines hands-on engineering with project execution and stakeholder management to improve assay robustness, workflow efficiency, and data quality for novel engineered cell therapy products.

Key Responsibilities 

• Design, build, and implement automation solutions for cell-based, immunological, and genomic assays 

• Program, test, and maintain Hamilton VANTAGE and other automated liquid-handling workstations 

• Develop and optimize liquid-handling scripts for complex bioassay workflows 

• Partner with scientists, engineers, and IT specialists to translate manual processes into robust automated workflows 

• Troubleshoot, maintain, and continuously improve automated systems to ensure reliable performance 

• Support the transfer of automated assay methods to Quality Control teams and external partners 

• Create and maintain SOPs, user guides, and technical reports 

• Train laboratory personnel on automation systems, workflows, and best practices 

• Evaluate emerging automation technologies and recommend opportunities for implementation 

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in bioengineering, biotechnology, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field  of hands-on experience with laboratory automation systems 
• Advanced expertise with Hamilton liquid-handling platforms and VENUS software 

• Experience developing integrated automation workflows using scheduling software such as HighRes Cellario 

• Proficiency in Python, C++, or a similar programming language 

• Experience with cell culture, immunological assays, and flow cytometry 

• Knowledge of GMP requirements and experience in a regulated environment 

• Strong problem-solving skills, sound judgment, and attention to detail 

• Excellent written, verbal, and technical communication skills 

• Demonstrated ability to proactively communicate progress, risks, decisions, and resource needs 

• Proven ability to prioritize competing work, maintain focus, own deliverables, and provide clear, timely progress updates 

• Ability to balance hands-on engineering with project execution, stakeholder alignment, and business priorities 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Knowledge of cell therapy development and manufacturing processes 

• Familiarity with QbD principles 

• Experience applying DoE approaches to method development 

• Experience with data analysis and visualization tools such as Prism, JMP, or FlowJo 

• Experience with computer-aided design tools such as AutoCAD or Fusion 360 

• Experience using 3D printing for laboratory automation applications 

• Experience with LIMS such as Benchling or Labguru, and their integration with laboratory automation schedulers 

The annual base pay (or hourly rate of compensation) for this position ranges from $103,286.40 to $154,929.60. Our positions offer eligibility for various incentives—an opportunity to receive short-term incentive bonuses, equity-based awards for salaried roles and commissions for sales roles. Benefits offered include qualified retirement programs, paid time off (i.e., vacation, holiday, and leaves), as well as health, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms of the applicable plans. 

Date Posted

Closing Date

Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.

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