Automation Engineer II, Clinical Biomarker Laboratory Operations

The Role

Moderna is seeking a talented, experienced, and motivated Automation Engineer II to join the Clinical Biomarker Laboratory to serve as a technical expert for the automation of biomarker assays.  The individual will work with automation engineers from other departments to implement existing automation strategies to optimize instruments and integration platforms in the clinical biomarker laboratory.  The candidate will provide support to laboratory scientists by automating manual laboratory processes and improving existing processes using liquid handlers, cell culture incubators and other lab automation tools.  The incumbent will also be responsible for providing critical automation support used for high-throughput assay development, qualification/validation of methods, sample management and testing.  In addition, the incumbent will be responsible for the training of team members to perform automated bioanalytical work and maintain clinical testing continuity to support Moderna’s clinical phase studies.  The ability to effectively communicate across multi-disciplinary teams and external partners is required.  The incumbent will stay aware of the latest technology, should be an outstanding automation scientist, a collaborative team member, and an excellent communicator to support Moderna’s portfolio needs.  The applicant will report to the Associate Director, Automation Engineer, Clinical Biomarker Laboratory Operations.

Here’s What You’ll Do

• Develop and optimize new liquid handler protocols for the screening and high-throughput assay platforms, specifically using Hamilton Venus 

• Work with scientist to develop, optimize and implement automated workflows

• Perform lab automation operations including protocol design, error recovery, point-teaching etc

• Drives software communication drivers between lab automation systems

• Deploy integrated lab automation solutions based on dynamic scheduling systems

• Assist scientists with operation of automation platforms including design, qualification/validation, and implementation of automated bioanalytical methods

• Track/record problems with the automated systems and assay setups for proper troubleshooting

• Explore, evaluate, and implement newer hardware and Digital control technologies in automation, to improve on clinical sample analysis such as robotic arm and modular platforms

• Develop and optimize new liquid handler protocols for the high-throughput assay platforms, specifically using Hamilton automated liquid handling systems

• Identify digital solutions to integrate robotic and modular platforms solutions

• Train users on new methods and protocols of system functionalities to automate bioanalytical processes using automated liquid handling and other modular platforms

• Educate users about lab automation instruments, software and their capabilities

• Collaborate and coordinate with internal and external groups to identify appropriate solutions to improve bioanalytical testing capacity and efficiency

• Occasionally the job may require overtime work or weekend shift as needed

• Additional duties as may be assigned from time to time

Here’s What You’ll Need (Minimum Qualifications)

• Requires MSc or B.S. in biology/engineering/biotechnology or related field

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in bioanalytical laboratory and automation solutions

Here’s What You’ll Bring to the Table (Preferred Qualifications)

• Experience in Java, C++ and other object-oriented programming languages

• Experience with LIMS systems or database

• 2 years of extensive Hamilton liquid handlers servicing and troubleshooting experience strongly preferred.

• Requires ability to diagnose problems and fix problems with Hamiltons

• Background in Web Services (SOAP,REST), JMS, J2EE and/or Spring frameworks

• Must be able to work in a fast-paced multi-tasking environment

• Must demonstrate an ability to troubleshoot complex problems on automation equipment

• Experience with Tecan, Hudson, High-Res, Echo, Spinnaker or Inspire™ module is desirable

• Experience with dynamic scheduling software: Momentum, SmartQC, Cellario, GreenButtonGo, Softlynx, Retisoft,or similar

• Extensive hands-on experience with high throughput liquid handling system operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance

• Industry experience focused on lab automation is strongly preferred

• Proven ability to successfully automate manual lab processes

• Keen on taking initiative, ability to work independently as well as in team settings, and the ability to execute on strategic plan under minimal supervision

• Will have an analytical mindset, creative problem-solving skills, and be methodical and organized

• Experience and skills in creating, modifying, and troubleshooting robotics/automation scripts

• Exceptional written and oral communication

• Familiarity with Atlassian tools (e.g., Bitbucket, Jira) is desirable

• Experience with Scrum/Agile development methodologies

• Ability to communicate at various levels within the organization as well as with external vendors

• Be able to travel upon need 5%

• A desire to make an impact as part of a high-growth, transformational company that is Bold, Relentless, Curious, and Collaborative.

• This position is site-based, requiring you to be at Moderna’s site full-time. This position is not eligible for remote work.

At Moderna, we believe that when you feel your best, you can do your best work.  That’s why our US benefits and global well-being resources are designed to support you—at work, at home, and everywhere in between.

• Best-in-class healthcare coverage, plus a suite of voluntary benefit programs to support your unique needs
• A holistic approach to well-being, with access to fitness, mindfulness, and mental health support
• Lifestyle Spending Accounts to personalize your well-being journey
• Family planning and adoption benefits
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, volunteer days, sabbatical, global recharge days, and a discretionary year-end shutdown
• Savings and investment opportunities
• Location-specific perks and extras

About Moderna

Since our founding in 2010, we have aspired to build the leading mRNA technology platform, the infrastructure to reimagine how medicines are created and delivered, and a world-class team. We believe in giving our people a platform to change medicine and an opportunity to change the world.  

By living our mission, values, and mindsets every day, our people are the driving force behind our scientific progress and our culture. Together, we are creating a culture of belonging and building an organization that cares deeply for our patients, our employees, the environment, and our communities. 

We are proud to have been recognized as a Science Magazine Top Biopharma Employer, a Fast Company Best Workplace for Innovators, and a Great Place to Work in the U.S. 

As we build our company, we have always believed an in-person culture is critical to our success. Moderna champions the significant benefits of in-office collaboration by embracing a 70/30 work model. This 70% in-office structure helps to foster a culture rich in innovation, teamwork, and direct mentorship. Join us in shaping a world where every interaction is an opportunity to learn, contribute, and make a meaningful impact. 

If you want to make a difference and join a team that is changing the future of medicine, we invite you to visit modernatx.com/careers to learn more about our current opportunities. 

Moderna is a smoke-free, alcohol-free, and drug-free work environment. 

Moderna is a place where everyone can grow. If you meet the Basic Qualifications for the role and you would be excited to contribute to our mission every day, please apply! 

Moderna is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry or citizenship, ethnicity, disability, military or protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital or familial status, or any other personal characteristic protected under applicable law.  

Moderna is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. We consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. 

We’re focused on attracting, retaining, developing, and advancing our employees. By cultivating a workplace that values diverse experiences, backgrounds, and ideas, we create an environment where every employee can contribute their best. 

Moderna is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to qualified job applicants with disabilities. Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should contact the Accommodations team at leavesandaccommodations@modernatx.com.  (EEO Employer)  

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