Lab Automation Engineer (Robotics & Systems Integration)

About DornaWe're building a modular robotics platform for lab automation — robotic arms, accessories, and software that snap together to automate the physical work labs do every day: sample handling, plate movement, instrument tending, and everything in between. Faster to deploy than a custom integration, more flexible than a liquid handler.We're a small, hands-on team shipping real systems to real labs.About the roleWe're hiring a Robotics Integration Engineer to work directly with customers — designing, building, and deploying end-to-end automation solutions on the Dorna platform. You'll turn a customer's workflow into a working system: scope the application, build and simulate it in our software, configure the cell, integrate their instruments, and be there when it runs for the first time.This is an onsite role in Upland, California, with approximately 10% travel for customer deployments.What you'll doYou'll deliver customer projects entirely within the Dorna platform — every solution is designed, simulated, and deployed using our software, not as a one-off custom build.Work with lab customers to understand workflows and translate them into automation requirementsBuild automation workflows in the Dorna software platform — configuring cells, accessories, and routines for each applicationSimulate and validate workflows in our software before deploymentDeploy and commission the solution on Dorna hardware at the customer's siteIntegrate third-party lab instruments into the platformExtend platform functionality with Python when an application needs custom logicDesign simple mechanical fixtures and adapters in CAD when neededDebug hardware, software, and integration issues in live customer environmentsTest, validate, and iterate until systems run reliably day after dayFeed learnings back into the platform — the software you use is the software our team buildsWhat we're looking forMust-haveBS in Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, or related fieldHands-on CAD experience (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or similar)Strong hands-on mindset — enjoys building, testing, and solving real-world problemsPython programming experience (automation, scripting, or hardware control)Basic electronics knowledge (wiring, sensors, troubleshooting)Comfortable in lab environments around scientific equipmentAble to translate user workflows into technical implementationsStrong communication skills — comfortable working directly with customers and explaining technical concepts clearlyA team player who collaborates well across engineering, sales, and supportEager to learn, take feedback, and continuously improveNice to haveLab automation or life sciences workflow experienceExposure to robotics, automation platforms, or system integrationExperience building prototypes, fixtures, or custom hardwareCustomer-facing or solutions engineering experienceStartup experienceCompensation & benefitsCompetitive base salaryStock options — meaningful equity so you share in what we buildHealth, dental, and vision coveragePaid time off and company holidaysHands-on work with real hardware and real customers from day oneA direct line from your work to the product — what you learn in the field shapes what we ship next