Automation Engineer / Senior Research Associate – Cell Line Development (Contract)
📍 East Bay, CA | On-site | W2 6-month contract
A Bay Area–based biotechnology company is seeking an Automation Engineer or Senior Research Associate to support automated, plate-based workflows within a cell line development (CLD) group. This role will focus on building, optimizing, and maintaining laboratory automation to improve consistency, efficiency, and data quality across routine experimental workflows.
This is a hands-on, on-site contract role with the potential to transition into a longer-term opportunity based on business needs and performance. As a w2 contract worker you are eligible to a benefits package including health/dental/vision/life insurance, a 401k vehicle and more.
Hourly rate:$45-55/hr (~$90-110K/year). The salary offer will be based on a variety of factors, including experience, qualifications, internal equity etc.
About the Company
This organization operates at the intersection of biology and engineering, developing advanced technologies to support modern biological research and development. The team is highly collaborative, fast-moving, and focused on building scalable solutions that enable high-quality experimental execution.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, test, and refine automated protocols supporting CLD and plate-based workflows
- Improve execution efficiency while reducing variability and manual intervention
- Support integration of peripheral laboratory instruments into automated workflows
- Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting to ensure reliable system performance
- Partner closely with scientists to enable safe, confident use of automation tools
- Contribute to continuous improvement of lab processes and automation capabilities
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biological Sciences, Engineering, or a related field with 2–4+ years of industry experience
- (Candidates with equivalent hands-on industry experience are encouraged to apply)
- Practical experience supporting automated laboratory workflows in a CLD or related cell-based setting
- Ability to develop, test, and validate automation protocols
- Strong communication skills and comfort collaborating across technical teams
- Interest in working within a growing biotechnology environment
Please apply with an up-to-date copy of your resume to be considered.
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