Job Summary:The Engineer II - Robotic Lab Automation is a laboratory-based position within the Research & Development Innovative Core Solutions Team focused on supporting automation solutions for new product development testing of flow cytometry antibody reagents. This role is ideal for a highly motivated individual with a strong interest in laboratory automation, engineering, and biological sciences.
The successful candidate will assist in the implementation, optimization, maintenance, and troubleshooting of automated laboratory workflows and equipment. Working closely with scientists, engineers, and automation specialists, this individual will help translate laboratory processes into automated solutions that improve efficiency, throughput, and data quality. The role offers an excellent opportunity to develop expertise in robotics, liquid handling systems, workflow automation, and assay development within a collaborative and innovative environment.
The Engineer II - Robotic Lab Automation will contribute to automation method development, support daily operation of laboratory automation platforms, and participate in evaluating new technologies that enhance current workflows.
Job Responsibilities: (Primary Duties, Roles, and/or Authorities)
- Support the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of automated laboratory workcells and associated equipment.
- Perform routine instrument checks, cleaning, calibration coordination, and preventative maintenance activities.
- Collaborate with scientists and senior automation engineers to understand laboratory workflow requirements and assist with development of automated solutions.
- Support execution and optimization of automated methods to improve laboratory efficiency, throughput, and reproducibility.
- Participate in programming and testing of liquid handling and laboratory automation systems.
- Assist in identifying workflow bottlenecks and opportunities for process improvement.
- Support implementation and evaluation of new automation technologies and platform enhancements.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Quality Control, R&D, Engineering, Informatics, and external vendors.
- Assist with integration and validation of automation hardware and software components.
- Support development and maintenance of documentation including work instructions, SOPs, training materials, and test reports.
- Perform troubleshooting, error recovery, and root-cause investigations for automation equipment and workflows.
- Track equipment usage, performance metrics, and downtime data.
- Help maintain equipment scheduling and resource coordination.
- Provide training and day-to-day support for automation platform users as needed.
- Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and operational excellence.
Education and Experience: - Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Bioengineering, Biomedical Engineering, Biology, Chemistry, Biotechnology, Computer Science, or a related scientific discipline with 1-2 years of relevant industry, academic, internship, or laboratory experience.
Preferred Education and Experience - Master's degree in Engineering, Bioengineering, Biology, Biotechnology, Robotics, Computer Science, or a related field with 1+ years of industry experience.
- Experience working in a laboratory, research, or automation-focused environment.
- Exposure to laboratory automation, liquid handling systems, robotics, or process automation through coursework, internships, research, or employment.
Knowledge and Skills: - Strong interest in laboratory automation and applying engineering principles to biological workflows.
- Ability to learn and support automated liquid handling and robotic systems.
- Familiarity with laboratory practices in biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, or related disciplines.
- Experience with or exposure to liquid handling platforms (Hamilton, Tecan, Opentrons, Beckman Coulter, or similar systems) is preferred.
- Basic programming experience in Python, R, VBA, C#, or similar languages is preferred.
- Interest in data analysis, data visualization, or dashboarding tools such as Power BI is a plus.
- Ability to troubleshoot technical issues using analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Collaborative mindset and ability to work within cross-functional teams.
- Demonstrated initiative and eagerness to learn new technologies.
- Experience with automation scheduling software, integrated robotic systems, or laboratory information systems is a plus but not required.
- Familiarity with CAD software, 3D printing, or rapid prototyping tools is beneficial.
- Ability to generate, review, and interpret scientific and operational data.
- Customer-focused approach with a desire to support laboratory users and stakeholders.
Work Environment: Lab and Office Space
At BD, we prioritize on-site collaboration because we believe it fosters creativity, innovation, and effective problem-solving, which are essential in the fast-paced healthcare industry. For most roles, we require a minimum of 4 days of in-office presence per week to maintain our culture of excellence and ensure smooth operations, while also recognizing the importance of flexibility and work-life balance. Remote or field-based positions will have different workplace arrangements which will be indicated in the job posting.
Primary Work LocationUSA CA - San Diego (BDB)
Additional LocationsWork ShiftSalary Range Information$83,500.00 - $133,500.00 USD Annual
