Lab Automation Engineer

About the role

This role provides hands-on support for liquid handling platforms and integrated workcells used in protein production, analytics, and next-generation sequencing. The position exists to keep laboratory automation systems running reliably through daily operations, method translation, troubleshooting, and coordination with equipment manufacturers.

Software engineers turn product ideas into working code. Engineers work in small teams, review each other's work, and ship in small batches. Most teams follow agile practices such as sprints and daily standups. Engineers also write tests, fix bugs, and improve performance. The field values clear communication as much as technical skill. Engineers spend part of every week on planning, code review, and debugging, not just writing new code. The ability to explain a technical decision in plain words separates strong engineers from the rest.

Key facts

What you'll do

Programming, modification, testing, and operation of liquid handling methods are handled to ensure reliable execution of protein production, analytical, and next-generation sequencing workflows for internal research and production needs.

These activities sustain uptime and consistent performance across automated platforms.

Documentation supports consistent execution and knowledge transfer across the team.

Training and support for scientists and operators using automation equipment enable broader adoption of automated methods.

Requirements

A Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Bioengineering, Biotechnology, Biology, Chemistry, or a related field is required, or equivalent relevant industry experience.

At least 1 year of industry experience working with automated liquid handling systems in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, or life sciences is required.

Demonstrated experience programming and troubleshooting automated liquid handlers used in research or production workflows is required.

Basic programming or scripting experience in Python, C#, or another language used for laboratory automation and instrument integration is required.

Experience maintaining or servicing laboratory instruments, including preventive maintenance, basic calibration, light repair, and coordination with equipment manufacturers, is required.

Working knowledge of molecular biology and analytical laboratory techniques, including PCR, gel electrophoresis, plate-reader assays, or HPLC, is required.

Strong troubleshooting skills across laboratory hardware, software, labware, reagents, and operating procedures are applied to resolve issues efficiently.

Technical issues, maintenance activities, and workflow deviations are documented clearly and consistently to support audits and continuous improvement.

Strong attention to detail, organization, and commitment to safe and reliable laboratory operations are demonstrated in a collaborative environment.

Effective communication and collaboration across scientific, engineering, operational, and vendor teams are used to keep projects on schedule.

Nice to have

Experience with Hamilton liquid handlers, including method development, liquid classes, deck configuration, error recovery, and routine maintenance, is preferred.

Experience operating integrated automation workcells and orchestration platforms such as Cellario, Green Button Go, Momentum, or similar schedulers is preferred.

Familiarity with laboratory informatics systems such as LIMS and ELN, including sample tracking, metadata capture, result transfer, and workflow traceability, is preferred.

Experience connecting laboratory instruments or automation systems through device drivers, APIs, middleware, serial or network communication, or IoT integration frameworks is preferred.

Experience supporting protein production, purification, analytical, or NGS workflows in a research or production environment is preferred.

Experience with rapid prototyping and fabrication tools, including CAD, 3D printing, and laser cutting, for developing instrument fixtures, labware adapters, brackets, and other custom automation components is preferred.

Experience writing SOPs, maintenance procedures, troubleshooting guides, and training materials to enable consistent automation use is preferred.

Practical notes

This is a contractor position based in South San Francisco, California, United States. Xaira Therapeutics is an equal-opportunity employer that does not accept agency resumes.