Lead Automation Engineer

Position Summary

The Lead Automation Engineer within the Production Engineering Group contributes to the development and implementation of automation systems and workflows to support the processing of samples in a clinical diagnostics laboratory environment. This individual collaborates with a team of scientists and engineers on projects to conceptualize, design, develop, and implement solutions designed to optimize the performance and increase the efficiency of the laboratory processes.

This will be an On‑Site position working out of Austin, TX.

• Write scripts, applets, etc. to automate data transfer
• Collect, collate, and build dashboards using JIRA, Power BI, Tableau, and other tools to regularly update leadership
• Program liquid handling robots running Venus, Evoware, Fluent Control, Cellario, Biomek Software, etc.
• Develop and integrate the automation systems and related software tools, prepare the documentation for equipment validation and operating procedures to ensure successful implementation in the labs
• Prepare User Requirement and Testing Procedure, Standard Operating Procedures, and related documentation
• Oversee the functional and validation testing, IQ/OQ/PQ
• Additional responsibilities include user training, troubleshooting, optimizing the workflows, continuous improvement, and on‑going support for the end‑users

• BS degree in Biomedical Engineering, Bioinformatics, Software Engineering, Computer Science, or other closely related scientific field; MS degree preferred
• A minimum of 8 years of laboratory automation engineering experience required
• Technical proficiency and experience in automation and systems development and integration for the life science industry; especially with robotics, liquid handling systems, and software development
• Experience in computer programming is required, ideally using Python, C#, Java, SQL, or VBA

Required

• Must be comfortable developing integrations between different APIs, various lab automation software, and services
• Must possess organizational skills, interpersonal skills, and written and verbal communication skills
• Flexibility and self‑initiative are required to support several simultaneous automation projects
• Must be comfortable presenting complex ideas in meetings and presentations to effectively communicate ideas

Highly Desirable

• Biotech, pharmaceutical, Lab automation providers, or clinical‑laboratory experience
• Experience working in Agile, Six Sigma, or similar project management structure
• Experience building rapport with end‑users, and coordinating with cross‑functional teams
• Experience tracking and updating software/method/file version control in Git Hub or similar

Austin, TX

$138,200 - $172,700 USD

Natera™ is a global leader in cell‑free DNA (cfDNA) testing, dedicated to oncology, women’s health, and organ health. Our aim is to make personalized genetic testing and diagnostics part of the standard of care to protect health and enable earlier and more targeted interventions that lead to longer, healthier lives.

The Natera team consists of highly dedicated statisticians, geneticists, doctors, laboratory scientists, business professionals, software engineers and many other professionals from world‑class institutions, who care deeply for our work and each other. When you join Natera, you’ll work hard and grow quickly. Working alongside the elite of the industry, you’ll be stretched and challenged, and take pride in being part of a company that is changing the landscape of genetic disease management.

Competitive Benefits – Employee benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life and disability plans for eligible employees and their dependents. Additionally, Natera employees and their immediate families receive free testing in addition to fertility care benefits. Other benefits include pregnancy and baby bonding leave, 401k benefits, commuter benefits and much more. We also offer a generous employee referral program!

Natera is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to ensuring a diverse and inclusive…