Director, Automation Engineering

Director, Automation Engineering Location: San Diego, CA Job Type: Full-Time Salary Range: $230,000 - $245,000 Position Overview We are seeking a Director of Automation to lead the design, development, and scaling of automated workflows for sample preparation. This role is critical to building a robust, scalable, and cost-efficient automation platform. You will own the end-to-end automation strategy from system architecture through implementation and validation working at the intersection of engineering, assay development, and laboratory. Key Responsibilities Automation Strategy & Architecture - Define and lead the automation strategy for sample preparation workflows - Architect integrated systems leveraging liquid handling robotics and supporting instrumentation - Drive innovative system design to achieve: - Low cost per sample - High sample success rates - Operational robustness and uptime - Design systems that scale from early-stage development to high-throughput production Workflow Development & Validation - Translate assay requirements into automated workflows - Lead the implementation, optimization, and validation of automated processes - Establish performance metrics, QC strategies, and validation protocols - Ensure workflows meet clinical, regulatory, and operational requirements as applicable Systems Integration - Lead integration of automation platforms with LIMS and data systems - Ensure seamless sample tracking, data integrity, and process traceability - Collaborate with software and informatics teams to build scalable infrastructure Team Leadership - Build and lead a high-performing team of automation engineers - Set technical direction, prioritize projects, and mentor team members - Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement Cross-Functional Collaboration - Partner closely with assay chemistry and R&D teams to co-develop automation-ready assays - Collaborate with operations and quality teams to ensure successful deployment - Serve as a key bridge between wet lab science and engineering Qualifications Required Experience - PhD (10+ years), MS/MA (14+ years), or BS/BA (17+ years) in Engineering, Science or Technology - 10+ years of demonstrated experience in lab automation, robotics, or related fields - Deep expertise with liquid handling systems (e.g., Hamilton, Tecan, Beckman, etc.) - Proven track record of designing and deploying automated sample prep workflows - Experience integrating automation platforms with LIMS or similar systems - Demonstrated success in scaling laboratory processes to high throughput. Leadership & Innovation - Experience leading and managing small, high-impact engineering teams - Strong history of cross-functional collaboration, especially with assay development teams - Demonstrated ability to innovate at the system architecture level, improving throughput, reliability, and cost efficiency Technical Skills - Workflow design, scripting, and automation control systems - Process validation and performance optimization - Understanding of workflows and molecular biology techniques - Familiarity with data integration, APIs, and lab informatics systems Nice to Have - Experience in clinical diagnostics or regulated environments (CLIA/CAP/FDA) - Background in scaling to high sample throughput - Experience with DOE (Design of Experiments) and process optimization - Exposure to manufacturing or production-scale lab environments Why Join Us - Influence the foundational technologies and strategies of a company poised to shape the future of clinical genomics and healthcare. - Work in a dynamic, collaborative environment where innovation and scientific rigor are deeply valued. - Join a seasoned and multidisciplinary team tackling high-impact problems at the intersection of science and engineering. - Competitive compensation and equity package, comprehensive benefits, and flexibility to support work-life integration. We are an equal opportunity employer. We thrive on diversity and collaboration.