Laboratory Automation Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Title: Automation Specialist

Contract: 12 MONTHS

Pay: $38–$50/hr
Location: South San Francisco, CA 94080

Job Summary

We are seeking an Automation Specialist to support the development and implementation of automated workflows for complex in vitro cell culture models and laboratory assays. The role will focus on automating cell culture, liquid handling, assay processes, data integration, and supporting advanced laboratory automation platforms.

 

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, program, test, qualify, and execute automated workflows for cell culture and laboratory assays.
• Translate manual cell culture and assay procedures into reliable, scalable automated protocols.
• Operate and maintain liquid handling and laboratory automation systems, including platforms such as Hamilton, Biomek, Opentrons, and automated incubators/centrifuges.
• Perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting, dry runs, and quality checks to ensure automation systems are operational and ready for use.
• Support automation of 3D cell cultures, organoids, spheroids, and other complex cell models .
• Collaborate with scientists, engineers, software developers, and external vendors to improve automation workflows.
• Support integration of laboratory instruments, data systems, and LIMS for process and quality data tracking.
• Use Python and/or C# for automation, data processing, and workflow development.
• Create and maintain SOPs, technical documentation, troubleshooting guides, and automation procedures.
• Train team members on automation systems, software, and best practices.

 

Required Qualifications

• Master's degree with 4–6 years of relevant experience or PhD with 0–3 years of experience in Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Biology, Biotechnology, Pharmacology, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience automating cell culture or laboratory processes in biotechnology, pharmaceutical, academic, or CRO environments.
• Experience with laboratory automation, liquid handling, and automated assay platforms.
• Experience with Python and/or C# .
• Ability to troubleshoot automation systems and translate laboratory processes into repeatable automated workflows.
• Strong communication, documentation, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

 

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with organoids, spheroids, 3D cell culture, or other complex in vitro models.
• Experience with automation scheduling software such as Green Button Go, Thermo Momentum, or Cellario .
• Experience with LIMS integration and laboratory data automation.
• Experience with cellular assays such as flow cytometry, cell viability, gene expression, high-content screening, or 3D imaging.
• Experience working with external vendors and service providers.