Automation Specialist

Automation Specialist

Ambry Genetics is seeking an Automation Specialist to design, develop, optimize, validate, train, maintain, and troubleshoot liquid handling scripts and methods for existing and future clinical assays with minimal supervision. The role also involves preparing documentation related to automation development and validation, and ensuring reliable product delivery prior to Clinical Lab implementation.

$90,000 - $115,000 per year. Eligible for a Short-Term Incentive Plan with a target of 7.5% of annual earnings; terms and conditions apply.

• Developing and optimizing scripts and methods for high‑throughput processing on automation systems, including sample tracking, labeling, reagent and plate preparation in a CLIA/CAP regulated setting.
• Prepare and review Standard Operating Procedures and validation documents for automation.
• Establish expertise in the operation of instrumentation and techniques.
• Analyze data to ensure QA/QC requirements are met at each workflow step; ensure completeness and accuracy of data prior to Clinical implementation.
• Coordinate various test‑related activities for project delivery; identifying task dependencies, assay schedules, peripheral equipment needed, LIMS system integration, and Clinical implementation.
• Provide prompt, high‑quality on‑site laboratory instrumentation and troubleshooting support to the Clinical Department.
• Assist with training of manual and automated protocols directly with the Clinical Department, Validation Team, and Automation Team.
• Perform general tasks that may include but are not limited to: reagent plating, PCR, electrophoresis, gel photography and analysis, Next‑Generation sequencing library preparation, Sanger Sequencing, aCGH microarrays, and sequencing analysis.
• Maintain a professional attitude towards co‑workers, instrument vendors, and support specialists.
• Understand and adhere to safety guidelines.
• Position requires sitting, bending, standing, and walking the entire workday.
• Other duties as assigned.

• BS and/or MS and/or PhD degree in a life sciences field:
  Biology, Bioengineering, Molecular Biology or related field.
• Strong understanding of molecular and cellular biology and familiarity with clinical laboratory requirements.
• Prior experience with liquid handling instruments required.
• Proficient in scripting with Tecan Evoware Standard Software and Tecan Fluent Control.
• Strong understanding of at least one of the following: DNA Extraction, Sanger Sequencing, Next‑Generation Sequencing, or Microarrays.
• Prior bench experience (pipetting, wet chemistry) desired.
• Programming knowledge in languages such as Python, MATLAB, , or VBScript is a plus.
• Minimum of 4+ years of laboratory research experience in an academic or industrial setting.
• Minimum of 4+ years of experience in automation scripting and validation in a CLIA/CAP regulated setting.
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written) and commitment to maintain open and effective communication with internal employees and managers along with outside vendors.
• Demonstrated ability to work efficiently, accurately, and handle multiple projects/priorities.
• Record of successfully completing complex assignments and meeting goals within aggressive timelines.
• Proficient in scripting with Tecan Evoware Standard Software and Tecan Fluent Control.
• Strong understanding of at least one of the following: DNA Extraction, Sanger Sequencing, Next‑Generation Sequencing, or Microarrays.
• Prior bench experience (pipetting, wet chemistry) desired.
• Expertise with Microsoft Office and/or Google Workspace.
• Programming knowledge in languages such as Python, MATLAB, , or VBScript is a plus.

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