Systems Engineer

Level: 3

Salary band: $120,000 - $160,000

5% bonus

Hybrid

Automata is building a world-class company to disrupt the life science industry and empower scientists by making automation a reality for every lab.

We work with labs across the world to understand their specific workflows and needs, and develop personalised solutions that range from diagnostic, drug discovery to synthetic biology. This allows us to simplify common automation tasks, while also supporting more advanced paths for specialised workflows, in a fast, flexible, and cost-efficient way.

We are looking for a Solutions Engineer (SE) whose mission is to work alongside the pre-sales and post-sales teams to help develop new and novel solutions for our customers in the world of lab automation.

Why is this role important for Automata?

You will lead the technical and scientific solution for our customers. You will act as a bridge between the product and engineering functions and the customer, ensuring they are successful with Automata’s LINQ platform by configuring their system and bringing thoughtful, innovative solutions to the table.

In this role you will be responsible for:

• Developing detailed designs and specifications for automation solutions, utilizing both existing product range and innovative new solutions as needed. Create final designs in CAD software (Onshape). Experience in modern CAD packages, such as EPLAN, for electrical design and documentation is preferred.
• Maintaining accurate documentation of designs, including technical specifications, schematics, and progress reports, to provide transparency and updates to stakeholders.
• Providing technical expertise and support within the team, offering insights and guidance on all aspects of product development and delivery.
• Engaging with suppliers and vendors to source components, align on technical specifications, and manage relationships to ensure timely delivery and quality standards.
• Proactively identifying and addressing any changes or challenges in project scope, schedule, or requirements, and communicate effectively with all involved parties.
• Designing and prototyping custom solutions and parts.
• Assisting conversations with customers, supporting with presentations of designs and rationale for design choices.
• Managing multiple customer projects concurrently.

What it takes:

• 3+ years experience working on large-scale engineering projects, specifically in the biotech field in the space of lab automation.
• Strong knowledge of lab automation - including common automation vendors, the applications of their solutions, and limitations.
• Demonstrated success understanding highly technical and scientific challenges and effectively communicating a path forward while working with product and engineering teams.
• Ability to work through situations with high levels of uncertainty and provide solutions.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Experience in start-up environments.
• Located in greater Boston (US HQ).
• Required travel as-needed for customer projects.

Nice to haves:

• Familiarity with machine safety standards (e.g. ISO 12100, IEC 60204).
• Safety controller programming experience (e.g. Pilz, Beckhoff TwinSAFE).
• Understanding of US regulatory requirements for electrical installations.
• Exposure to risk assessment methodologies (e.g., FMEA) and reliability engineering principles, enabling proactive identification and mitigation of potential project risks.
• Experience with procurement and supply chain management processes, supporting efficient sourcing of components and materials for project implementation.

What gets us excited?
We’re passionate about the future of Technology and Automation and our growing success is built upon like-minded individuals who share our passion.

Automata is transforming the way labs work with open, integrated automation. Our mission is to unlock the potential of labs and the potential of the people who work in them.

If this sounds like a good fit and you have ticked the right boxes, you will love having the opportunity to build something that immediately adds value.

US team benefits:

• Healthcare
  Competitive healthcare for you and your family.
• 401k
  We offer a 401(k) retirement savings plan.
• Well-being budget
  Invest in your own well-being, personal growth, and hobbies.
• Holiday
  30 days + 8 holidays.
• Additional leave days
  Time off for dependents, 'Me days', birthdays, and volunteering days off.
• Birthday trees
  Planting a tree for every employee on their birthday, every year.
• Paid sick leave
  10 days paid sick leave to stay home and focus on rest and recovery.
• Mental health support
  Emotional support tool 'Spill'.
• Career progression frameworks
  Each department & discipline has a progression framework.
• Flexible working
  Work when and where is best for you.

We are an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Discrimination of any kind based on race, colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status is strictly prohibited.