Laboratory Automation Engineer
About the CompanyLanzaTech, a world-leading gas fermentation company based in Skokie, IL, is seeking capable and highly motivated Laboratory Automation Engineers to join our R&D team. We have built unique automated systems for high-throughput engineering and screening of non-model organisms and are looking to expand these capabilities by developing new instruments and new methodologies. You will be joining an interdisciplinary team of researchers working to address some of the world’s most serious challenges relating to sustainable resource use and the climate crisis, working at the boundary of synthetic biology, chemistry, and engineering. In addition to developing new technologies, you will work with LanzaTech researchers to build and onboard new methods in automated microbiology, and with collaborators and customers to deploy them.About the RoleKey duties include designing, building, and modifying lab automation instruments and systems for increased capability, developing methods for lab automation instruments, and training scientists and technicians on instrument operation.ResponsibilitiesDesign, build, and modify lab automation instruments and systems for increased capabilityDevelop methods for lab automation instrumentsTrain scientists and technicians on instrument operation and support users to develop methodsPlan, coordinate and monitor work with outside vendors to build and maintain automation instruments and systemsEstablish and maintain customer and vendor relationshipsAssess existing workflows and capabilities and recommend options for improvementConduct and document root cause failure analysis and develop solutions for product malfunctions or issuesConduct research and attend workshops to remain abreast of industry developmentsCoordinate between lab operations, EHS, and scientific computing/controls groups on key equipment within areas of responsibilityMaintain awareness of Health & Safety issues and report as appropriateQualificationsBachelor’s degree in electrical, mechanical, or bioengineering or related field3+ years of post-degree experience developing hardware and/or methods for laboratory automationExperience with laboratory roboticsExperience working with and around hazardous materials (e.g. compressed gases, flammable materials, chemical or biological hazards)General purpose programming skills (e.g. Python, C#)Comfortable reading and writing schematics and other technical literatureExcellent problem-solving skills and attention to detailStrong organizational and time management skills, with a demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in parallelAbility to interact with diverse personalities at all levels in a multi-cultural, team-oriented environmentRequired SkillsExperience with method development for automated liquid handlers (e.g. Hamilton STAR, Tecan Fluent, Dynamic Devices Lynx)Experience with automation scheduling software (e.g. Momentum, Green Button Go, Cellario)Hands-on experience with wet lab biotechnology techniques (molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology, fermentation, etc)Prior experience training bench scientists to operate lab automation instrumentationExperience with control system (PLC/HMI/SCADA) design and programmingExperience with compressed gas systemsExperience with anaerobic laboratory techniquesTraining and experience with CAD or equivalent softwareFamiliar with electronic record keeping software such as LIMS, ELNExperience interacting with outside partners and deploying systems at customer sitesPreferred SkillsProlonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computerProlonged periods of standing and moving in a lab environmentMust be able to lift up to 50 pounds at timesFrequent reaching, stooping, and fine motor manipulation at or below shoulder levelOn site required, with occasional travelPay range and compensation packageThis position is open to candidates authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis for any employer.Equal Opportunity StatementLanzaTech is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.