Automation Software Engineer

As an Automation Software Engineer at Lila Sciences, your main responsibilities will include integrating various automation systems with laboratory platforms like EMS, LIMS, and MES to streamline data flow. You'll focus on designing and developing data capture solutions, event listeners, and driver development, all while collaborating closely with our ML/AI teams to create an effective digital twin of our lab environment, assuring operational optimization. Ensuring a robust CI/CD deployment strategy and maintaining data security through a strict chain of custody is also crucial.

To qualify for the Automation Software Engineer position at Lila Sciences, candidates typically should possess proven experience in automation software engineering within life and physical sciences. A strong programming background, familiarity with LIMS and MES systems, knowledge of digital twin technologies, and experience with CI/CD practices are key. Collaboration with ML/AI teams will be valued, just as much as problem-solving skills and a willingness to travel for work assignments when necessary.

At Lila Sciences, we provide a dynamic and supportive work environment that fosters both personal and professional growth. As an Automation Software Engineer, you'll have hands-on opportunities to interface with cutting-edge technology, participate in impactful projects, and benefit from mentorship and collaboration with industry experts. Our mission-driven culture encourages learning and innovation, allowing you to explore your interests while contributing to groundbreaking solutions in science.

As an Automation Software Engineer at Lila Sciences, you will work on a variety of exciting projects involving the integration of automation solutions within lab environments. You could be developing complex systems for enhancing data workflows, refining digital twins of lab setups, or optimizing processes using cutting-edge technologies. Collaborating with cross-disciplinary teams to innovate and implement effective strategies for lab automation will also be a significant part of your role.

Lila Sciences fosters a creative, inclusive, and collaborative work culture that values diverse perspectives. As an Automation Software Engineer, you will be part of a mission-driven team where your voice is heard and your ideas are valued. We thrive in unstructured environments that encourage innovative thinking. Whether you are working independently or alongside other experts, the focus is on creating an atmosphere that promotes continuous learning and impactful solutions.

When answering this question, focus on specific examples of automation systems you have worked with in the lab. Highlight your role in integrating EMS, LIMS, and MES tools, and discuss how you solved challenges related to data flow and operational efficiency. Show your familiarity with the technologies and your problem-solving skills in various scenarios.

In your response, outline the steps you take to create a digital twin, including gathering data from lab instruments, modeling processes, and using simulations effectively. Discuss your understanding of robotics and environmental data in developing an accurate representation. Emphasize collaboration with other teams to ensure data utilization aligns with research goals.

Discuss your knowledge of the chain of custody practices and how you implement them in automated processes. Talk about your experience with CI/CD pipelines and how security protocols are integrated into deployment strategies. Highlight your ability to foresee potential data breaches and how you proactively address them.

For this question, describe your experience implementing and optimizing CI/CD pipelines, specifically within lab automation contexts. Talk about the tools and techniques you have used, and illustrate how you ensure that the deployment process is efficient, reliable, and maintainable.

Emphasize your collaborative mindset and ability to adapt to varying work styles. Discuss how you prioritize communication and engagement with your team while also being able to tackle independent tasks. Share specific examples of projects where your dual capability was a strength.

Mention specific programming languages and tools relevant to automation software engineering, such as Python, Java, or specific development environments you've used. Discuss how you have applied these skills in previous projects, especially in lab settings.

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your response. Share a specific challenge you faced, the thought process and actions you took to resolve it, and the positive outcome. This showcases your problem-solving skills and ability to handle pressure.

Discuss your innovative thinking by sharing specific potential initiatives that could enhance lab operations. Explore ideas such as new technologies, implementing best practices, or optimizing existing workflows. Show how feedback and continuous improvement play a role in your suggestions.

Share your strategies for adaptability and resilience, emphasizing your ability to reassess priorities, communicate effectively with stakeholders, and adjust your work plan. Use a specific example to illustrate how you successfully navigated a project change.

In your response, explain your passion for applying technology in innovative ways to address scientific challenges. Share how Lila Sciences’ mission aligns with your career goals and values, and express excitement about the opportunity to work in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.