Sr. Automation Engineer

Moderna is looking for a Senior Engineer I in Norwood, Massachusetts to lead automation engineering and bioassay development for GMP‑ready systems.

• Lead the development and hardening of automated bioassay workflows, transforming early‑stage prototypes into robust, scalable, GMP‑ready systems
• Collaborate with scientists to translate cell‑based bioassays and sample preparation workflows into automation solutions, accounting for biological constraints such as cell health, sterility, and timing sensitivity
• Design and implement automation strategies for cell handling workflows (e.g., maintenance, passaging, transfection, assay execution) to ensure reproducibility and assay integrity at scale
• Own technical execution across projects, including requirements definition, system integration, testing, deployment, and sustainment
• Partner cross‑functionally with Analytical Development, Applied Technologies, Analytical Sciences & Technology, Digital, and QC Operations to enable successful transfer and deployment of systems into regulated environments
• Develop automation solutions that meet GMP expectations, including data integrity, traceability, and audit readiness
• Troubleshoot complex issues across biological performance, liquid handling, and system integration layers, including investigation of assay variability and automation‑induced bias
• Drive standardization and continuous improvement of automation platforms and workflows to support scalability across programs

• We digitize everywhere possible using the power of code to maximize our impact on patients.
• We act with urgency; action today compounds the lives saved tomorrow.

• BS with 8 years of relevant experience, MS with 5 years of relevant experience, or PhD in Engineering, Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, or related discipline.
• Hands‑on experience supporting or working with cell‑based bioassays or sample preparation workflows.
• Experience working in or supporting regulated laboratory environments (GLP/GMP).
• Experience programming and developing with laboratory automation software/hardware and liquid handlers.
• This position is site‑based, requiring you to be at Moderna’s site full‑time. This position is not eligible for remote work.

• Experience supporting or deploying automation systems into GMP or regulated environments, including:
• Validation support (IQ/OQ/PQ)
• Change control and lifecycle management
• Documentation aligned with regulatory expectations
• Experience developing and supporting automation for:
• Mammalian cell culture workflows (maintenance, passaging, expansion)
• Transfection or cell treatment processes
• Plate‑based bioassay sample preparation workflows (e.g., ELISA)
• Experience with 3rd‑party automation hardware such as cobot arms, decappers, centrifuges, dispensers, sealers/peelers, etc.
• Direct experience configuring and optimizing Hamilton STAR/Vantage automated liquid handling systems.
• Experience with workcell‑based automation equipment controlled by scheduling software such as High Res Cellario, Thermo CRS Momentum, etc.
• Success Characteristics
• Demonstrates strong ownership and accountability; delivers high‑quality, reliable outcomes
• Collaborates effectively across functions; proactively solves complex problems

• Best‑in‑class healthcare coverage, plus voluntary benefit programs to support your unique needs
• A holistic approach to well‑being, with access to fitness, mindfulness, and mental health support
• Family planning benefits, including fertility, adoption, and surrogacy support
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, volunteer days, sabbatical, global recharge days, and a discretionary year‑end shutdown
• Savings and investment opportunities to help you plan for the future
• Location‑specific perks and extras

The salary range for this role is $ – $. The position may be eligible for an annual discretionary bonus, other incentive compensation, or equity award, subject to company plan eligibility criteria and individual performance.

Moderna is…