Senior Automation Engineer, Lab Automation Analytical Sciences
Apply NowCompany: AstraZeneca
Location: Santa Monica, CA 90405
Description:
Overview
We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Automation Engineer to join our Laboratory Automation team within Analytical Sciences. In this role, you will work closely with the Associate Director of Lab Automation to implement and optimize laboratory automation technologies for cell-based assays, immuno-assays and genomic assays. You will play a critical role in developing and maintaining automated systems that enhance assay robustness, improve workflow efficiency, and ensure data quality for our novel engineered cell therapy products.
Key Responsibilities
Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications
Why AstraZeneca?
At AstraZeneca, we seize opportunities for change, recognizing their potential to drive significant advancements. Our mission to deliver life-changing medicines is motivated by ambition-finding those moments that can lead to extraordinary outcomes. Join us on our journey to redefine what a biopharmaceutical company can be. We are pioneering innovative methods and bringing together diverse teams to achieve our goals.
Where can I find out more?
Our social media, Follow AstraZeneca on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/1603/
Follow AstraZeneca on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/astrazenecacareers/
Follow AstraZeneca on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/astrazeneca_careers/?hl=en
Competitive remuneration and benefits apply
We offer a competitive Total Reward program including a market driven base salary, bonus and long term incentive. We have a generous paid time off program and a comprehensive benefits package.
Diversity and Inclusion
AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We follow all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.
We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.
The annual base pay (or hourly rate of compensation) for this position ranges from $112,164.00 - $168,246.00 USD, either as annual base pay or as the hourly rate (annual base pay divided by 2080 hours)]. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition, our positions offer a short-term incentive bonus opportunity; eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program (salaried roles), to receive a retirement contribution (hourly roles), and commission payment eligibility (sales roles). Benefits offered included a qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]; paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves; and, health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans. Additional details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
Date Posted
16-Apr-2025
Closing Date
29-Apr-2025Our mission is to build an inclusive and equitable environment. We want people to feel they belong at AstraZeneca and Alexion, starting with our recruitment process. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics. We offer reasonable adjustments/accommodations to help all candidates to perform at their best. If you have a need for any adjustments/accommodations, please complete the section in the application form.
We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Automation Engineer to join our Laboratory Automation team within Analytical Sciences. In this role, you will work closely with the Associate Director of Lab Automation to implement and optimize laboratory automation technologies for cell-based assays, immuno-assays and genomic assays. You will play a critical role in developing and maintaining automated systems that enhance assay robustness, improve workflow efficiency, and ensure data quality for our novel engineered cell therapy products.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and implement automation solutions for immunology cell-based assays and genomic assays
- Program, test, and maintain Hamilton VANTAGE and other liquid handler workstations
- Develop and optimize scripts for liquid handling platforms to support complex bioassay workflows
- Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and IT specialists to translate manual processes into automated workflows
- Troubleshoot and maintain automated systems to ensure optimal performance
- Support method transfer of automated assays to Quality Control and external partners
- Document automation procedures through SOPs, user manuals, and technical reports
- Train laboratory personnel on automation systems and technologies
- Evaluate new automation technologies for potential implementation
- Come up with automation instrument maintenance program and execute/collect QC data for user/operator's benefit
Qualifications
- BS/MS in Bioengineering, Biotechnology, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
- 5+ years of hands-on experience with laboratory automation systems
- In-depth expertise with Hamilton liquid handling platforms and Venus software
- Practical knowledge in developing integrated automation workflow using scheduling software (Cellario, GreenButtonGo, Genera, or similar)
- Proficiency in programming languages (Python, C++, or similar)
- Experience with cell culture techniques, immunological assays, and flow cytometry
- Knowledge of GMP regulations and experience working in a regulated environment
- Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail
- Strong documentation and communication abilities
- Experience with process optimization and statistical analysis
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with multi-parametric flow cytometry automation
- Knowledge of cell therapy development and manufacturing processes
- Familiarity with Quality by Design (QbD) principles
- Experience with DOE (Design of Experiments) approaches to method development
- Background in data analysis and visualization tools (Prism, JMP, FlowJo)
- Experience with computer aided design tools (AutoCAD, Fusion or Fusion 360, etc.)
- Experience with 3D printer for lab automation purpose
- Experience in LIMS (Benchling, Labguru, or similar) and its integration to lab automation scheduler
Why AstraZeneca?
At AstraZeneca, we seize opportunities for change, recognizing their potential to drive significant advancements. Our mission to deliver life-changing medicines is motivated by ambition-finding those moments that can lead to extraordinary outcomes. Join us on our journey to redefine what a biopharmaceutical company can be. We are pioneering innovative methods and bringing together diverse teams to achieve our goals.
Where can I find out more?
Our social media, Follow AstraZeneca on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/1603/
Follow AstraZeneca on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/astrazenecacareers/
Follow AstraZeneca on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/astrazeneca_careers/?hl=en
Competitive remuneration and benefits apply
We offer a competitive Total Reward program including a market driven base salary, bonus and long term incentive. We have a generous paid time off program and a comprehensive benefits package.
Diversity and Inclusion
AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We follow all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.
We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.
The annual base pay (or hourly rate of compensation) for this position ranges from $112,164.00 - $168,246.00 USD, either as annual base pay or as the hourly rate (annual base pay divided by 2080 hours)]. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition, our positions offer a short-term incentive bonus opportunity; eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program (salaried roles), to receive a retirement contribution (hourly roles), and commission payment eligibility (sales roles). Benefits offered included a qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]; paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves; and, health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans. Additional details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
Date Posted
16-Apr-2025
Closing Date
29-Apr-2025Our mission is to build an inclusive and equitable environment. We want people to feel they belong at AstraZeneca and Alexion, starting with our recruitment process. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics. We offer reasonable adjustments/accommodations to help all candidates to perform at their best. If you have a need for any adjustments/accommodations, please complete the section in the application form.