Lead R&D Automation Engineer

Regeneron Pharmaceuticals • Tarrytown, GA

6d

About The Position

The Automation Core is a centralized high-throughput core laboratory that provides automation services to support therapeutic focus areas and technology centers across Research & pre-clinical Development (R&pD). We are seeking a driven and experienced Lead Automation Engineer to join the Development team of the Automation Core, where the candidate will take ownership of designing and implementing complex automation solutions and optimizing processes to address evolving scientific challenges. This position requires a high degree of technical expertise and the ability to independently manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate will be well versed in laboratory automation technologies, and must be adept at developing scalable solutions, mentoring team members, and collaborating across diverse scientific and engineering functions to achieve organizational goals. As a Lead Automation Engineer, a typical day might include: Developing, implementing, maintaining, and troubleshooting automation methods on standalone and integrated systems, including Hamilton, Tecan, Opentrons, HighRes, and supporting off-the-shelf laboratory devices (dispensers, plate readers/washers, ODTCs, etc.). Conducting validation testing of developed protocols with scientists. Collaborating with Automation Core Ops to prepare documentation for method deployment into production. Providing hands-on training to team members on new equipment, drivers, methods, and procedures. Utilizing JIRA to accurately document and manage a project’s progress across its development cycle. Leading development efforts of new platforms from initial design through FAT, SAT, and system validation. Working with instrument vendors and internal teams to implement hardware/software upgrades for continuous improvements to the existing platforms. Contributing to automation initiatives that drive strategic innovation and technology advancement across the organization. This role might be for you if you: Work independently and can effectively shift priorities without supervision. Have excellent organizational and communication skills. Possess exceptional problem-solving abilities to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues. Are capable of multi-tasking and prioritizing multiple projects at different development stages. Enjoy collaborating with cross-functional teams in a dynamic research environment. Have a positive attitude and are passionate about introducing novel and innovative technologies to advance automation capabilities throughout R&pD.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or higher degree in life science, engineering, computer science, or related field.
• 6+ years of industry experience working with automation systems within a laboratory environment.
• Hands-on wet lab experience is required, specifically in molecular biology, flow cytometry, genomic, or cell-based assays.
• Proficiency in designing, deploying, and operating liquid handling instrumentation and automated workcells is required.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with Hamilton Venus and HighRes CellarioScheduler is preferred.
• Programming experience with Python, C#, and SQL is highly advantageous.
• Integration with lab data platforms (Benchling, Sapio, or similar LIMS) is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Developing, implementing, maintaining, and troubleshooting automation methods on standalone and integrated systems, including Hamilton, Tecan, Opentrons, HighRes, and supporting off-the-shelf laboratory devices (dispensers, plate readers/washers, ODTCs, etc.).
• Conducting validation testing of developed protocols with scientists.
• Collaborating with Automation Core Ops to prepare documentation for method deployment into production.
• Providing hands-on training to team members on new equipment, drivers, methods, and procedures.
• Utilizing JIRA to accurately document and manage a project’s progress across its development cycle.
• Leading development efforts of new platforms from initial design through FAT, SAT, and system validation.
• Working with instrument vendors and internal teams to implement hardware/software upgrades for continuous improvements to the existing platforms.
• Contributing to automation initiatives that drive strategic innovation and technology advancement across the organization.

Benefits

• We have an inclusive culture that provides comprehensive benefits, which vary by location. In the U.S., benefits may include health and wellness programs (including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance), fitness centers, 401(k) company match, family support benefits, equity awards, annual bonuses, paid time off, and paid leaves (e.g., military and parental leave) for eligible employees at all levels!
• For additional information about Regeneron benefits in the US, please visit https://careers.regeneron.com/en/working-at-regeneron/total-rewards/.
• For other countries’ specific benefits, please speak to your recruiter.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level