Automation Service Engineering Manager, Oncology

The Automation Service Engineering Manager will oversee the design, deployment, and maintenance of automation systems within our molecular diagnostics labs and production facilities, providing service support to the oncology laboratory operations team. This role will manage a team of service engineers, ensuring smooth operation and optimization of automated systems, as well as the troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair of laboratory equipment utilized in the Next Generation Sequencing workflow.

The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background in automation systems, team management experience, and the ability to work cross‑functionally to ensure the reliability and scalability of operations. This role will report to the Director of Process & Development, Oncology and is an onsite position at the Menlo Park site.

Responsibilities:

• Team Leadership & Scheduling: Lead, mentor, and manage a team of automation service engineers, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement. Manage and develop careers for the automation service engineers and associates. Oversee a team that needs to cover different production shifts (including AM and PM shifts) to ensure continuous laboratory support.
• System Maintenance: Ensure all automated equipment and systems are running optimally by overseeing routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs. Troubleshoot, conduct root cause analysis, and problem solve on lab instruments.
• Deployment & Integration: Oversee the design, installation, and integration of new automated systems, ensuring alignment with company needs and industry standards. Carry out Installation, Operational, and Process Qualifications on new equipment as necessary.
• Process Optimization: Work closely with the operations, R&D, and production teams to identify areas where automation can enhance efficiency, quality, and throughput. Collaborate with Quality Control to ensure all documentation is completed accurately and in accordance with regulatory requirements.
• Vendor Relations: Manage relationships with automation vendors, negotiate contracts, and ensure timely support and delivery of equipment and services. Effectively coordinate with vendors as required for equipment issues.
• Inventory & Budgeting: Oversee the budget for automation services, ensuring cost‑effective solutions while maintaining high performance and reliability of systems. Maintain equipment parts inventory and well‑organized equipment records.
• Compliance & Safety: Ensure all automated systems are compliant with relevant industry standards, safety protocols, and regulatory requirements. Implement and enforce safety procedures for the operation of automated equipment.
• Data Analysis & Reporting: Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) of automated systems, providing regular reports to senior management and recommending improvements based on data insights.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Automation, or a related field (Master's degree preferred), or a BS degree in a scientific discipline.
• Proven experience as a Lab Automation Engineering Manager or in a similar leadership role within a manufacturing or diagnostics environment.
• 4+ years of experience in operating and troubleshooting laboratory equipment, preferably high‑throughput molecular biology equipment, especially liquid handlers.
• Extensive knowledge of automation systems, including robotics, PLCs, sensors, and control systems, with hands‑on experience with installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of automated equipment.
• Strong customer focused service experience with proficiency in problem‑solving with limited direction and making confident decisions.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with a track record of successfully leading and developing high‑performing teams.
• Familiarity with compliance and safety standards in a highly regulated environment (e.g., FDA, ISO), and experience working in a CLIA or similar regulated environment is preferred.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across departments and communicate technical concepts to non‑technical stakeholders.

Nice-t…