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Automation Engineer (I, II, III)

We are seeking an Automation Engineer to contribute to the development, implementation, and optimization of innovative lab automation systems. The role involves enabling scalable and robust end-to-end automated workflows for high-throughput cell therapy manufacturing QC testing. 


The successful candidate will play a key role in developing and managing liquid handling methods, as well as supporting the integration of specified off-the-shelf instruments and custom hardware within a fully automated workcell. Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams, the hire will contribute to iterating on various aspects of system designs and developing strategies for workflow optimization. Additionally, the role involves leading the development and testing of specific verification and validation plans for our automation systems


Candidates should enjoy working in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment and be prepared to tackle a broad selection of challenges as the company grows.


Responsibilities
  • Transfer and validated manual to automated QC workflow steps 
  • Develop, validate, and optimize automated methods for sample preparation, analysis, and data collection
  • Design and execute validation experiments to optimize assay and workflow parameters
  • Conduct verification and validation testing of integrated systems to verify proper functionality and performance
  • Analyze automation workflows to identify bottlenecks and areas for optimization
  • Implement troubleshooting methodologies to identify and resolve complex assay method issues


Requirements
  • Bachelor's or higher degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Biotechnology, or a related field
  • 4+ years of experience designing, implementing, and maintaining laboratory automation systems
  • Experience programming and optimizing liquid handling methods
  • Experience developing and implementing integrated automation solutions using Biosero’s Green Button Go software
  • Experience with laboratory analytical instruments and automated systems
  • Experience integrating and managing assay results with LIMS
  • Familiar with flow cytometry, genomic, and cell-based assays
  • Strong technical writing skills and experience authoring Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), documentation, and training materials 
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or C#
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot technical issues
  • Strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams
  • Attention to detail and the ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks simultaneously
  • Creative, self-motivated, eager to take on a wide variety of tasks and grow with the evolving technology
  • Self-awareness, integrity, authenticity, and a growth mindset


$90,000 - $210,000 a year
Cellares total compensation package contains competitive base salaries, highly subsidized Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans, 401(k) Matching, Free EV Charging, Onsite lunches, and Stock options. All displayed pay ranges are approximate, negotiable, and location dependent.

This is Cellares


Cellares is the first Integrated Development and Manufacturing Organization (IDMO) and takes an Industry 4.0 approach to mass manufacturing the living drugs of the 21st century. The company is both developing and operating integrated technologies for cell therapy manufacturing to accelerate access to life-saving cell therapies. The company’s Cell Shuttle integrates all the technologies required for the entire manufacturing process in a flexible and high-throughput platform that delivers true walk-away, end-to-end automation. Cell Shuttles will be deployed in Cellares’ Smart Factories around the world to meet total patient demand for cell therapies at global scale. Partnering with Cellares enables academics, biotechs, and pharma companies to accelerate drug development and scale out manufacturing, lower process failure rates, lower manufacturing costs, and meet global patient demand.

The company is headquartered in South San Francisco, California with its commercial-scale IDMO Smart Factory in Bridgewater, New Jersey. The company is backed by world-class investors and has raised over $355 million in financing.


Leveling will be based on overall experience, education, and demonstration of knowledge throughout the interview process.


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$210000K

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What You Should Know About Automation Engineer (I, II, III), Cellares

Cellares is on the lookout for talented Automation Engineers at various experience levels (I, II, III) to join our innovative team in South San Francisco, CA. As an Automation Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in developing, implementing, and optimizing state-of-the-art lab automation systems aimed at transforming the future of cell therapy manufacturing. Your day-to-day will involve creating scalable and robust automated workflows, ensuring high-throughput quality control (QC) testing. You'll have the opportunity to lead the creation and management of liquid handling methods and support the seamless integration of both commercial and custom instruments in our fully automated workcells. You'll be collaborating with diverse teams, iterating on system designs, and fine-tuning strategies for workflow optimization. This is a fast-paced environment where you'll not only tackle various challenges but also contribute to making life-saving therapies accessible to patients globally. Your responsibilities will also include validating manual processes, optimizing analytical workflows, and conducting thorough testing of automation systems to ensure everything runs smoothly. If you're passionate about cutting-edge technology and energetic about scaling up the future of medicine, this might just be the place for you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Automation Engineer (I, II, III) Role at Cellares
What responsibilities does an Automation Engineer at Cellares have?

As an Automation Engineer at Cellares, you'll be responsible for developing, implementing, and optimizing lab automation systems tailored for high-throughput cell therapy manufacturing QC testing. This includes transferring manual QC workflow steps to automated processes, designing validation experiments, optimizing methods for sample preparation, and troubleshooting complex assay issues.

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What qualifications are required for the Automation Engineer positions at Cellares?

Cellares is looking for candidates with a Bachelor's degree or higher in Engineering, Computer Science, Biotechnology, or a related field. Additionally, you should have at least 4 years of experience designing and maintaining laboratory automation systems, programming liquid handling methods, and familiarity with tools like Biosero’s Green Button Go software.

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What programming skills does an Automation Engineer need at Cellares?

At Cellares, proficiency in programming languages such as Python or C# is essential for Automation Engineers. These skills are crucial for developing and optimizing automation solutions, implementing integrated systems, and troubleshooting technical issues effectively.

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How does Cellares ensure robust automation in its QC processes?

Cellares ensures robust automation in its QC processes by implementing end-to-end automated workflows that are continuously monitored and optimized. Automation Engineers lead verification and validation testing, analyze workflows for bottlenecks, and apply troubleshooting methodologies to guarantee that the automation systems are running at peak efficiency.

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What is the working environment like for Automation Engineers at Cellares?

The working environment for Automation Engineers at Cellares is fast-paced and mission-driven. You’ll work closely with cross-functional teams in a collaborative space where creativity and problem-solving are highly valued as you help shape the future of cell therapy manufacturing.

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Common Interview Questions for Automation Engineer (I, II, III)
Can you explain your experience with laboratory automation systems?

When answering this question, focus on providing specific examples from your past roles, detailing the systems you've designed or improved. Highlight any metrics that demonstrate the impact of your work and your familiarity with integration of various equipment.

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How do you approach troubleshooting complex technical issues in lab automation?

A structured approach is key. Describe how you identify the problem, analyze potential root causes, and implement solutions. Share examples of past troubleshooting experiences to illustrate your methodical process.

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What programming languages are you proficient in and how have you used them in past projects?

Mention any relevant programming languages such as Python or C#. Relate your experience to specific projects, discussing how you utilized these languages for automation tasks, data analysis, or system integrations.

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How do you ensure that automated workflows are validated and compliant?

Talk about your experience with validation protocols and compliance standards relevant to lab automation. Discuss specific methodologies you’ve used to document validation processes and how you ensure steadiness in performance and compliance.

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What techniques do you use to analyze and optimize workflows?

You can discuss methods such as time-motion studies, data analysis, and feedback loops. Providing insights into how you’ve previously achieved optimizations can further demonstrate your expertise.

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Describe a project where you significantly improved a workflow or automation process.

Be specific about a project and the changes you implemented. Discuss the challenges faced, how your contributions made a difference, and the measurable outcomes resulting from your efforts.

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How do you handle working with cross-functional teams?

Share your positive experiences collaborating with other departments. Emphasize the importance of effective communication and the ability to adapt your approach depending on the team dynamics and objectives.

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What experience do you have with liquid handling methods?

Detail your background with liquid handling methods, discussing specific technologies and techniques. Provide examples illustrating how you developed or optimized these methods for automation in previous roles.

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How do you keep updated with the latest technologies in lab automation?

Discuss your commitment to continual learning, whether through industry conferences, online courses, or professional networks. Highlight any resources or specific events you utilize to stay in the loop.

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What do you believe is essential for scaling automation in cell therapy manufacturing?

Consider highlighting the integration of automated systems for efficiency, the need for proper validation protocols, high-throughput capabilities, and collaboration between teams for successful outcomes in scaling production.

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DATE POSTED
March 31, 2025

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