Laboratory Automation Engineer

Berkeley Lab’s Joint Genome Institute Division has an opening for a Laboratory Automation Engineer. The DOE Joint Genome Institute (JGI) in Walnut Creek, Ca (A division of the Lawrence Berkeley National Lab) has an open position for an experienced Laboratory Automation Engineer.  The successful candidate will work within the Automation Group applying engineering, scientific and other technical concepts to provide automated methods for sophisticated biotech-laboratory instrumentation. This position will be filled at the Laboratory Automation Engineer (Level 1) or Laboratory Automation Engineer (Level 2) level, dependent on experience.

Classification at the Scientific Engineer Associate (SEA or Sr. SEA) level for this position will depend upon the successful incumbent’s level of skills, knowledge, and abilities.

Laboratory Automation Engineer (Level 1) Specific Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with JGI research personnel evaluate manual molecular biological processes to develop automated processes and solutions.

• Develop training and implementation plans to complete user training and testing.

• Perform complex assignments related to operating, programming and troubleshooting of automated systems and instruments.

• Apply technical concepts which will require both standard and unique methods.

• Interact with JGI scientists and engineers throughout the JGI organization.

• Occasional prototype development with CAD software and 3D printing.

• Occasionally assist the laboratory manager in manual tasks.

• Occasionally lift and move equipment up to 25 pounds.

• Keep up to date with JGI/LBL training requirements.

• Demonstrated experience applying technical, scientific and engineering principles to evaluate manual laboratory work protocols/process and develop automated work processes.

• Knowledge of process optimization methodologies.

• Knowledge and expertise in laboratory technology including automated high-throughput and biotech instrumentation.

• Knowledge of Visual Basic programming for data manipulation & instrument integration.

• Ability to calibrate and operate a variety of electronic components, devices, instruments, equipment or systems.

• Experience gathering feedback and requirements and analyzing data to make recommendations.

• Excellent interpersonal skills for working in a team environment

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• General personal computer application skills with spreadsheets, databases and word processors.

• Able to be flexible within a team to achieve objectives.

• Ability to handle multiple tasks in parallel while working effectively.

• Willingness to learn new skills on new instruments as appropriate.

• Good organizational and record keeping skills.

• Ability to work independently and make decisions during shift work without additional support.

In addition to the above, Laboratory Automation Engineer (Level 2) Specific Responsibilities:

• Proficient in one or more commercially available software packages such as C/C++, C#, JAVA, Visual Basic.

• Advanced knowledge of Hamilton Robotic platforms and Perkin Elmer Sciclone platforms.

• Ability to fabricate, install, maintain, calibrate and operate a variety of electronic components, devices, instruments, circuits, equipment or systems.

• Experience in troubleshooting automated platforms.

Laboratory Automation Engineer (Level 1) Required Qualifications:

• B.S degree in Biology, Chemistry, Engineering or related discipline.

• Professional technical experience in a research laboratory or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Training and understanding of high throughput laboratory automation.

• Training and understanding of programming.

In addition to the above, Laboratory Automation Engineer (Level 2) Required Qualifications:

• Advanced degree (MS/Ph.D.) Biology, Chemistry, Engineering or related discipline.

• Proficient in one or more commercially available software packages such as C/C++, C#, JAVA, Visual Basic.

• Knowledge of liquid handling robotic platforms for biotechnology.

• Knowledge of advanced bio-molecular processes.

• Knowledge of sequencing technologies.

• The ability to focus on method development.

• The ability to work independently under limited direction.

• Proficient in one or more commercially available software packages such as C/C++, C#, JAVA, Visual Basic.

• Ability to interact with both scientists and engineers.

• Experience with Solidworks.

• Experience with advanced programming of  Hamilton robotic platforms.

• Experience with computer networking.

• Experience with setting up communications with robotic platforms.

• Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.

The posting shall remain open until the position is filled.

Notes:

• This is a full time, 2 years, term appointment with the possibility of extension or conversion to Career appointment based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs.

• Classification will depend upon the applicant's level of skills, knowledge, and abilities.

• Full-time, M-F, exempt (monthly paid) from overtime pay.

• Salary is commensurate with experience.

• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.

• Work will be primarily performed at DOE Joint Genome Institute (JGI) — 2800 Mitchell Dr., Walnut Creek, CA.

Berkeley Lab (LBNL) addresses the world’s most urgent scientific challenges by advancing sustainable energy, protecting human health, creating new materials, and revealing the origin and fate of the universe. Founded in 1931, Berkeley Lab’s scientific expertise has been recognized with 13 Nobel prizes. The University of California manages Berkeley Lab for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science.

Equal Employment Opportunity: Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. Berkeley Lab is in compliance with the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision under 41 CFR 60-1.4.  Click here to view the poster and supplement: "Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law."