Becton, Dickinson and Company

Senior Lab Automation Engineer

Becton, Dickinson and Company • $105K — $168K *
San Diego, CA 92154In-Person
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
5 - 7 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's or Master's in Engineering, Life Sciences, or Computer Science; PhD with 2+ years of Lab Automation experience.
  • Minimum 2 years of supervisory experience in a lab setting with a proven ability to lead teams.
  • Proven experience in implementing and maintaining automation solutions and troubleshooting equipment.
  • Analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
  • Strong communication skills, particularly in cross-functional team settings.

Responsibilities

  • Manage automation workcells, including teaching robots and overseeing equipment maintenance.
  • Collaborate with scientists to translate laboratory protocols into automated workflows.
  • Identify operational bottlenecks and evaluate technologies to scale in vitro assays.
  • Improve process workflows through automation and troubleshooting techniques.
  • Develop documentation and provide training for end-users and troubleshooting assistance.
  • Track equipment metrics and provide performance reports to leadership.

Benefits

  • Focus on on-site collaboration to foster creativity and innovation.
  • Emphasis on flexibility and work-life balance within a structured in-office environment.
Full Job Description
Job Description

Job Responsibilities: (Primary Duties, Roles, and/or Authorities)

  • Manage automation workcells comprehensively, including robot teaching, coordinating field service engineers for calibrations/preventive maintenance, and overseeing all equipment components through regular cleaning, lubrication, and performance checks.


  • Collaborate with scientists to understand laboratory protocols and translate them into automated workflows, while applying automation expertise to improve processes, troubleshoot procedures, and lead programming of new methods to expand throughput.


  • Identify operational bottlenecks, evaluate new technologies, and work cross-functionally to scale in vitro assays by multiple orders of magnitude, including vendor coordination for hardware integration and collaboration with software developers.


  • Apply automation experience to the process improvement and troubleshooting of laboratory procedures and workflows


  • Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation including training guides and verification reports, while providing ad hoc instrument troubleshooting, error recovery, and end-user training through detailed work instructions.


  • Manage equipment scheduling calendars, track critical metrics (uptime, downtime, usage), and provide regular performance reports to leadership to ensure optimal laboratory automation operations.


Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering, Life Sciences, or Computer Science (preferably Biomedical Engineering, Robotics, Biology, Chemistry), or PhD with 2+ years of relevant Lab Automation experience. Non-PhD candidates require minimum 6 years of relevant experience.
  • Minimum 2 years of supervisory experience in a lab setting, with demonstrated ability to lead without authority, coordinate small teams to achieve program goals, and work cross-functionally with strong communication skills.
  • Proven experience implementing and maintaining automation solutions, troubleshooting liquid handling equipment and laboratory automation systems, and ability to generate, evaluate, and understand scientific data from robotic platforms.
  • Self-motivated with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, capable of effectively prioritizing tasks and multitasking to achieve goals while maintaining focus on customer deliverables.
  • Self-motivated with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, capable of effectively prioritizing tasks and multitasking to achieve goals while maintaining focus on customer deliverables.


Preferred Requirements:

  • Previous experience programming Hamilton Robotics instrumentation (Venus software) is preferable.
  • 3D printing experience preferred.
  • Ability to program in languages such as R or Python preferred.
  • Experience with integrated robotic system schedulers (e.g. Cellario, Biosero).
  • Knowledge of basic scientific principles in biology and chemistry and/or experience working closely with scientists to automate biological or chemical processes.


Work Environment: (if applicable)

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 Location
USA CA - San Diego (BDB)

Additional Locations

Work Shift

Salary Range Information
$105,500.00 - $168,800.00 USD Annual

About Becton, Dickinson and Company

BD is a global technology company that provides diagnostics and technologies for frontliners. Through their solutions and services, they assist scientists in detecting diseases and advanced researchers' on developing diagnoses and therapeutics. BD was established in 1897 by Farleigh Dickinson and Maxwell Becton in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Becton, Dickinson and Company Careers

Join the innovative world of Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD), a global medical technology company that is actively seeking driven, dedicated professionals to join our team. At BD, we are committed to advancing the world of health by improving medical discovery, diagnostics, and the delivery of care. This commitment provides the foundation for a workplace where you can engage in meaningful work and where job opportunities abound.

Work You’ll Do

At BD, you will be part of a culture that values diversity, leadership, and innovation. Our team members are empowered to lead and inspire from day one. Join us and contribute to our mission of advancing the world of health through your professional skills and personal passion.

Transform Your Career

BD offers a unique position in the marketplace that combines industry expertise, leadership in medical innovation, and a collaborative culture to help you grow your career. Whether you are looking for an entry-level position or a more senior role, we provide the tools and support for your professional growth through comprehensive training and development programs.

Innovative Work Environment

Our team at BD is composed of more than 65,000 associates across the globe. These dedicated professionals work at the intersection of technology and healthcare, where they drive innovation and ensure that we stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. By joining BD, you will work alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry.

Internship and Employment Opportunities

Start your career with BD through our internship programs or dive straight into a full-time position. We offer a range of opportunities that allow you to explore different areas of our business and find a path that aligns with your career goals. Our hiring process is designed to be transparent and engaging, ensuring that all candidates—whether submitting a resume for an internship or a senior position—feel valued and informed.

Benefits and Culture

BD is proud to offer competitive benefits that support the health, well-being, and financial security of our employees and their families. From comprehensive health insurance to employee wellness programs and flexible working arrangements, we prioritize the well-being of our team members. Our inclusive culture encourages networking, continuous learning, and the sharing of ideas in a diverse and welcoming environment.

Join Our Team

Explore the job opportunities at BD and discover how your expertise can help shape the future of healthcare. Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We look for passionate, curious, creative, and solution-driven team players.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. See what exciting and rewarding opportunities await at Becton, Dickinson and Company.

Explore Careers at BD

Whether you're preparing for your first interview or looking to advance into a leadership role, BD offers career paths that foster continuous growth and innovation. Join us in our mission to improve medical outcomes and enhance patient care worldwide.

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At Becton, Dickinson and Company, we are more than just a company; we are a community that is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of people all around the world.
Learn more about Becton, Dickinson and Company
Size
75,000 employees
Market Cap
$72 billion
Industry
Healthcare
Net Income
$1.6 billion
Founded
1897
5 Year Trend
+9.3%
Revenue
$18.2 billion
NASDAQ
BDX
* Ladders Estimates

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