Laboratory Automation Specialist Lab Operations
Purpose of the Position:
Provide programming, integration, and automation solutions to our molecular biology laboratory in a GMP/GCP/CLIA-compliant environment.
Essential Functions:
- Manage automation applications processes including application development, improvement, optimization, implementation, documentation, training, and support.
- Work closely and coordinate activities with team members in a collaborative environment to support efficient automated high throughput laboratory workflows.
- Provide training on use, routine maintenance, and troubleshooting of liquid handlers
- Optimize and verify performance of automated liquid handlers.
- Integrate laboratory instrumentation with LIMS and inventory management systems.
- Troubleshoot and resolve system errors and minor instrumentation problems.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
- Adjust work schedule to meet time-sensitive project milestones.
Education and Experience:
- At least 2 year degree in bioengineering or chemical engineering, molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry OR 4 years of equivalent experience.
- Experience in process automation and associated programming.
- Experience with operating and programming liquid handling robots (Hamilton, Tecan etc.).
- Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and integration of individual hardware components into automated environments is desired.
- Experience in developing new molecular diagnostic products and working in a commercial IVD setting is a plus.
- Prior experience working in a QSR-compliant environment is plus.
Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Excellent organizational skills, including the ability to efficiently evaluate, prioritize, and handle multiple and changing projects and priorities.
- Ability to learn new concepts and think creatively.
- Dependability, following instructions, responding to management direction, completing tasks on time or notifying appropriate person with an alternate plan.
- Ability to deal with frequent changes, delays, or unexpected events, maintaining composure while working under pressure.
- Ability to work with a limited supervision as well as in a collaborative team setting.
- Strong interpersonal skills that foster a positive environment.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills in the English language.
- Solid computer skills including proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
- High-standard GLP conduct in the lab. Working in a biohazard environment, practicing good safety habits.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Work entails regularly performing tasks while working at a computer, desk, laboratory bench or automated machine. Work in laboratory or operational areas containing biohazardous materials. Work may involve occasional climbing or balance. Work entails occasional lifting and/or moving up to 25 pounds.
The employee’s sensory modalities (vision, hearing, smell) and physical capabilities (ambulation without mechanical assistance, strength, coordination, dexterity, range of motion) must be sufficient to independently perform duties/functions of the position.
Working Conditions:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
This position will involve a combination of office and biotechnology laboratory environments. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be exposed to hazardous chemicals, blood-borne pathogens, automated equipment, and high levels of noise and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.