Controls Automation Engineer - MaintenanceThe Controls/Automation Engineer will provide centralized Maintenance of Line (MOL) controls, automation, robotics, and instrument integration support for JMCRS, with initial emphasis on daily operational readiness and uptime for the CT CMAP (Cellular Models Array Platform). This role is intended to bridge engineering rigor with hands-on operational support: maintaining and troubleshooting automated systems, supporting method reliability, enabling process improvements, and coordinating with internal and external partners to sustain scalable, compliant, and efficient operations.
The role will support the NYSCF collaboration and related automation platforms while also building a practical support model that can extend to other JMCRS sites and programs over time. The successful candidate will combine strong technical depth in automation and controls with clear communication, ownership, disciplined documentation, and the ability to work effectively across operations, scientific, engineering, vendor, and informatics stakeholders.
This role will apply a systems-thinking approach to support reliable production across the broader organization, working cross-functionally with teams across JMCRS and Research Services to ensure solutions align with JAX's scientific and operational goals.
Success in this role will require:
- Clear and proactive communication with internal and external stakeholders.
- Collaborative problem-solving across engineering, operations, and scientific teams.
- Adaptability in dynamic, multi-site environments.
- Ownership and accountability for high-impact deliverables.
The salary range is $92,192 - $133,678. Salary will be determined based on qualifications and experience.
Key Responsibilities (What you contribute):- Serve as the primary MOL controls and automation engineer for CT CMAP Operations, ensuring system uptime, troubleshooting, and operational continuity.
- Provide centralized JMCRS automation, controls, robotics, and instrumentation support across sites, programs, and future automation platforms.
- Maintain, troubleshoot, and improve automation systems, robotic platforms, instruments, and supporting controls infrastructure.
- Support liquid handling and automated workflows across a variety of automation platforms.
- Develop and support preventive maintenance, calibration, and system health monitoring strategies for automation platforms.
- Support integration of automation platforms with LIMS, data systems, custom software solutions, and digital workflows.
- Ensure documentation, training, and support processes enable successful transition from project deployment to operational ownership.
- Develop and maintain technical documentation, procedures, training materials, and validation records.
- Respond to operational issues while driving root-cause analysis, risk reduction, and continuous improvement.
- Collaborate with scientific, operational, engineering, and informatics teams to improve process reliability and automation performance.
- Support automation implementations through commissioning, vendor coordination, operational readiness, and support handoff activities.
- Evaluate emerging technologies and recommend practical automation improvements.
- Provide technical guidance and serve as an escalation resource for automation system troubleshooting and vendor support activities.
- Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.
- Apply Lean and Six Sigma principles to improve reliability, efficiency, and uptime.
Minimum Qualifications:- Bachelor's Degree in Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field with a focus on automation systems, robotics, or industrial controls.
- At least 5+ years of relevant experience supporting, troubleshooting, commissioning, or maintaining automation systems in operational environments.
- Programming experience in Python, C/C++, or structured text, with emphasis on robotic instrument and liquid handler programming (Hamilton, Agilent, Dynamic Devices) and API-based integrations for lab automation.
- Proficiency in PLC programming, HMI development, and industrial robotics, including integration with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and experience with custom automation software solutions.
- Experience integrating automation platforms with LIMS and data pipelines.
- Strong understanding of control systems, automation hardware, and system integration.
- Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in technical environments.
- Familiarity with safety and ergonomic standards in automation design.
- Experience with vision systems, and data acquisition tools.
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma principles.
- Experience working in GMP or regulated laboratory environments.
Preferred Qualifications:- Master's Degree in a relevant engineering, robotics, automation, controls, or applied technical discipline.
- 10+ years of relevant engineering experience in automation engineering, controls engineering, laboratory automation, manufacturing automation, or advanced technical operations support.
- Certification in automation or robotics (e.g., ISA Certified Automation Professional (CAP), Certified Robotics Engineer (CRE), Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST), etc.).
- Certification in Lean or Six Sigma (green belt level).
- SolidWorks or AutoCAD Professional Certification.
- Proficiency in MS Project or similar software.
- Experience with programming robotic instruments/liquid handlers and custom software development.
- Familiarity with CAD, microcontroller programming, and 3D printing for custom fixtures.
- Experience with robotics, motion control, or mechatronic systems.
- Experience with vision systems, barcode/RFID systems, electronic batch/traceability workflows, environmental monitoring, or data acquisition tools.
- Experience coordinating vendor support, service agreements, spare parts strategies, preventive maintenance plans, and technical escalation pathways.
- Experience with MS Project, Planner, Smartsheet, Jira, Azure DevOps, or comparable tools for work tracking, implementation planning, and issue management.
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