Senior Automation Engineer, Laboratory Automation – Analytical Sciences

We are seeking an accomplished Senior Automation Engineer to join the Laboratory Automation team within Analytical Sciences. This fully on-site role is based in Santa Monica, California. Reporting to the Associate Director of Laboratory Automation, you will develop, implement, and optimize automation solutions for cell-based, immunological, and genomic assays. You will own deliverables, maintain momentum, and proactively communicate progress, risks, decisions, and resource needs. The role combines hands-on engineering with project execution and stakeholder management to improve assay robustness, workflow efficiency, and data quality for novel engineered cell therapy products. Key Responsibilities Design, build, and implement automation solutions for cell-based, immunological, and genomic assays Program, test, and maintain Hamilton VANTAGE and other automated liquid-handling workstations Develop and optimize liquid-handling scripts for complex bioassay workflows Partner with scientists, engineers, and IT specialists to translate manual processes into robust automated workflows Troubleshoot, maintain, and continuously improve automated systems to ensure reliable performance Support the transfer of automated assay methods to Quality Control teams and external partners Create and maintain SOPs, user guides, and technical reports Train laboratory personnel on automation systems, workflows, and best practices Evaluate emerging automation technologies and recommend opportunities for implementation Qualifications Bachelor’s or master’s degree in bioengineering, biotechnology, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field of hands-on experience with laboratory automation systems Advanced expertise with Hamilton liquid-handling platforms and VENUS software Experience developing integrated automation workflows using scheduling software such as HighRes Cellario Proficiency in Python, C++, or a similar programming language Experience with cell culture, immunological assays, and flow cytometry Knowledge of GMP requirements and experience in a regulated environment Strong problem-solving skills, sound judgment, and attention to detail Excellent written, verbal, and technical communication skills Demonstrated ability to proactively communicate progress, risks, decisions, and resource needs Proven ability to prioritize competing work, maintain focus, own deliverables, and provide clear, timely progress updates Ability to balance hands-on engineering with project execution, stakeholder alignment, and business priorities Preferred Qualifications Knowledge of cell therapy development and manufacturing processes Familiarity with QbD principles Experience applying DoE approaches to method development Experience with data analysis and visualization tools such as Prism, JMP, or FlowJo Experience with computer-aided design tools such as AutoCAD or Fusion 360 Experience using 3D printing for laboratory automation applications Experience with LIMS such as Benchling or Labguru, and their integration with laboratory automation schedulers The annual base pay (or hourly rate of compensation) for this position ranges from $103,286.40 to $154,929.60. Our positions offer eligibility for various incentives—an opportunity to receive short-term incentive bonuses, equity-based awards for salaried roles and commissions for sales roles. Benefits offered include qualified retirement programs, paid time off (i.e., vacation, holiday, and leaves), as well as health, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms of the applicable plans. Date Posted 16-Oct-2026 Closing Date 29-Oct-2026 Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form. AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company. We focus on discovering, developing and commercialising prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. But we are more than one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies. At AstraZeneca, we’re dedicated to being a Great Place to Work. Where you are empowered to push the boundaries of science, challenge convention and unleash your entrepreneurial spirit. To embrace differences and take bold actions to drive the change needed to meet global healthcare and sustainability challenges. There is no better place to make a difference in medicine, patients, and society. An inclusive culture where you will connect different thinking to generate new and valuable opportunities. Where you will find a commitment to lifelong learning, growth and development for all. Our Inclusion & Diversity (I&D) mission is to create an inclusive and equitable environment where people belong, using the power of our diversity to push the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines to patients. Inclusion and diversity are fundamental to the success of our company, because innovation requires breakthrough ideas that only come from a diverse workforce empowered to challenge conventional thinking. We’re curious about science and the advancement of knowledge. We find creative ways to approach new challenges. We’re driven to make the right choices and be accountable for our actions. As an organisation centred around what makes us human, we put a big focus on people. Across our business, we want colleagues to wake up excited about their day at the office, in the field, or in the lab. Along with our purpose to bring life-changing medicines to people across the globe, we have a promise to you: to help you realise the full breadth of your potential. Here, you’ll do work that has the potential to change your life and improve countless others. And, together with your team, you’ll shape a culture that unites and inspires us every day. This is your life at AstraZeneca.