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Laboratory Automation Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Automation Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$145K - $234K/yr

Lead the development of automated laboratory protocols and workflows to replace manual processes ... Oversee team of automation engineers responsible for designing, building, and maintaining liquid ...

Job Title: MES Automation Engineer. We are looking for MES Automation Engineer, to provide ... Examples of other relevant systems are Emerson DeltaV (DCS), Laboratory Information Management ...

Job Title: MES Automation Engineer. We are looking for MES Automation Engineer, to provide ... Examples of other relevant systems are Emerson DeltaV (DCS), Laboratory Information Management ...

We are seeking an Automation Engineer to support the development, validation, and day-to-day ... Experience with laboratory analytical instruments and automated systems * Experience integrating ...

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Laboratory Automation Engineer information

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$37K

$107.1K

$163K

How much do laboratory automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for laboratory automation engineer in the United States is $107,126.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,500.00 and $123,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Laboratory Automation Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Laboratory Automation Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering, biology or chemistry, with expertise in automation technologies and laboratory processes, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), programming languages like Python or C#, and automation platforms such as Tecan or Hamilton is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication abilities help drive innovation and collaboration. These competencies are crucial to ensure efficient, reliable, and scalable laboratory operations that support scientific discovery and regulatory compliance.

How does a Laboratory Automation Engineer typically collaborate with scientists and IT specialists?

Laboratory Automation Engineers regularly work alongside scientists to understand experimental workflows and identify opportunities for automation. They also collaborate with IT specialists to ensure that lab instruments and software integrate seamlessly with data management systems. Effective communication is key, as the engineer must translate scientific requirements into technical solutions while ensuring data integrity and system reliability. This cross-functional teamwork helps optimize lab efficiency and supports scientific discovery.

What does a Laboratory Automation Engineer do?

A Laboratory Automation Engineer designs, develops, and maintains automated systems used in laboratories to streamline repetitive tasks and improve accuracy. They work with robotics, software, and instrumentation to automate processes such as sample handling, data collection, and analysis. Their role often involves troubleshooting equipment, optimizing workflows, and collaborating with scientists to understand laboratory needs. By automating routine procedures, they help increase throughput and ensure consistent results, allowing researchers to focus on more complex tasks.

What is the difference between Laboratory Automation Engineer vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLaboratory Automation EngineerLaboratory Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, automation, or related fieldAssociate's degree or certification in laboratory procedures
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and maintain automation systems in labsPerform routine lab tests and sample processing
Industry UsageUsed in biotech, pharmaceutical, and research labs for automationCommon in clinical, medical, and research labs for sample handling

The main difference is that Laboratory Automation Engineers focus on designing and maintaining automation systems, requiring engineering skills and certifications. Laboratory Technicians perform routine lab tasks and sample processing, with a focus on laboratory procedures. Both roles are essential in lab operations but differ in technical scope and responsibilities.

More about Laboratory Automation Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Laboratory Automation Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Laboratory Automation Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Laboratory Automation Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Laboratory Automation Engineer jobs include:
Sr. Automation Engineer

Sr. Automation Engineer

Moderna Therapeutics

Cambridge, MA • On-site

$145K - $234K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Moderna rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 71 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

The Role:

ModernaTX, Inc. seeks a Senior Automation Engineer for its Cambridge, Massachusetts location.

Here's What You'll Do:

  • Lead the development of automated laboratory protocols and workflows to replace manual processes, particularly by programming and optimizing liquid handling robots (using Hamilton Venus software) for high-throughput screening and assay development.

  • Collaborate with external vendors to design and procure lab automation instruments, manage Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), and ensure timely delivery, installation, and compliance with technical and operational requirements.

  • Oversee team of automation engineers responsible for designing, building, and maintaining liquid handling automation systems.

  • Provide critical automation support for high-throughput screening, high-throughput assay development, sample management, and lab automation solutions.

  • Provide technical leadership by mentoring junior automation engineers and guiding cross-functional teams in the execution of automation projects on lean timelines.

  • Assist scientists with operation of automation platforms.

  • Provide error-recovery support as needed.

  • Communicate project progress and technical concepts to stakeholders, and coordinate with external partners or vendors to implement new technologies and ensure project requirements are met.

  • Train users on new methods and protocols of system functionality capabilities to automate analytical processes using Hamilton and other platforms.

  • Write, customize, and maintain automation scripting code and integrate Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) to enable seamless data flow across high-throughput processes.

  • Implement robust version control and issue tracking practices for automation code and equipment, utilizing platforms such as GitHub/Bitbucket for code management and Jira for tracking system issues, to ensure traceability of changes and continuous improvement in system performance.

Here's What You'll Bring to the Table:

Minimum Requirements:

  • Requires a minimum of a Master's degree, or foreign equivalent, in Biotechnology, Bioengineering, Pharmaceutical Science, or related field and three (3) years of experience as a Scientist, Automation Engineer, Associate Engineer, Research Associate, or related position involving lab process automation.

  • Three (3) years of experience must include:

    • Hamilton Venus Software Programming;

    • High-Throughput Laboratory Automation;

    • System Qualification;

    • Software Development & Version Control utilizing Jira, GitHub, and Bitbucket; and

    • Data Integration for Automation Workflows.

  • Must also have experience with:

    • Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) for automation workflows;

    • Integrated Laboratory Robotics; and

    • Reading and analyzing scientific assay data.

The salary range for this role is $145,900 to $234,200. This range reflects the lowest to highest salary we, in good faith, believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. The minimum target pay for this particular position, based on its primary location, is $193,200 to $234,200. An individual's placement within the range will depend on several factors, including but not limited to specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, performance, and business or organizational needs.

Apply at https://modernatx.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/M_tx (Job ID: R19099) or email resume and cover letter to careers@modernatx.com with subject line: R19099.

Pay & Benefits

At Moderna, we believe that when you feel your best, you can do your best work. That's why our US benefits and global well-being resources are designed to support you-at work, at home, and everywhere in between.

  • Best-in-class healthcare coverage, plus voluntary benefit programs to support your unique needs

  • A holistic approach to well-being, with access to fitness, mindfulness, and mental health support

  • Family planning benefits, including fertility, adoption, and surrogacy support

  • Generous paid time off, including vacation, volunteer days, sabbatical, global recharge days, and a discretionary year-end shutdown

  • Savings and investment opportunities to help you plan for the future

  • Location-specific perks and extras

The successful candidate may be eligible for an annual discretionary bonus, other incentive compensation, or equity award, subject to company plan eligibility criteria and individual performance.

#DNI

Pay & Benefits

At Moderna, we believe that when you feel your best, you can do your best work. That's why our US benefits and global well-being resources are designed to support you-at work, at home, and everywhere in between.

  • Best-in-class healthcare coverage, plus voluntary benefit programs to support your unique needs

  • A holistic approach to well-being, with access to fitness, mindfulness, and mental health support

  • Family planning benefits, including fertility, adoption, and surrogacy support

  • Generous paid time off, including vacation, volunteer days, sabbatical, global recharge days, and a discretionary year-end shutdown

  • Savings and investment opportunities to help you plan for the future

  • Location-specific perks and extras

The successful candidate may be eligible for an annual discretionary bonus, other incentive compensation, or equity award, subject to company plan eligibility criteria and individual performance.


Moderna logo

About Moderna

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

In just over a decade, Moderna has evolved from a research-focused company in the messenger RNA (mRNA) field to a leading enterprise with a diverse clinical portfolio of vaccines and therapeutics. With a strong intellectual property portfolio and state-of-the-art manufacturing capabilities, Moderna collaborates with global partners to advance groundbreaking science and achieve rapid scaling of production. Notably, Moderna's mRNA platform has enabled the development of therapies for various diseases, including infectious diseases, immuno-oncology, and cardiovascular conditions. Recognized as a top biopharmaceutical employer, Moderna fosters an inclusive and smoke-free work environment. The company is dedicated to equal employment opportunities and non-discrimination, ensuring that all employees and applicants are treated with respect and without bias based on factors like race, gender, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. Moderna is also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, in accordance with applicable laws. To know more, visit www.modernatx.com.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cambridge, MA, US

Year founded

2010

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