Automation Engineer II na Bayl Genetics

SUMMARY:

The Automation Engineer II is responsible for the implementation and technical support of automated workflows using liquid handling instruments for the various production pipelines.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Works as an independent contributor, gathers and translates user requirements into automated workflows
• Initiates, develops, tests, and implements automated assays to increase the operational and throughput efficiencies in the laboratory by making recommendations to the department leadership regarding best practices for automation and use of liquid handling techniques
• Assists and performs verification/validation on various assays according to the regulatory requirements
• Configures and programs automated liquid handling instrument software as required
• Collaborates with the Information Technology (IT) teams to integrate automated laboratory solution data outputs into departmental systems such as Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)
• Assists clinical operation labs in troubleshooting automation systems, provides technical support including calibrating, maintenance, and repair of a variety of laboratory instruments, including liquid handling robotics
• Provides on-call support for equipment with hardware/software issues during live runs
• Provides on-going training to laboratory staff who utilize the automated laboratory instruments
• Tracks and manages changes in liquid handling methods
• Generates and updates SOPs as related to the automated processes
• Creates user guides and all other training documents related to automation needs
• Mentor teammates on programming styles and code best practices
• Maintains culture of continuous improvement in the area of responsibility
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned
• Adheres to the Code of Conduct as outlined in the Baylor Genetics’ Compliance Program

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE:

• BS in Engineering, Computer Science, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or related field +4 years of relevant experience

   OR

• MS in Engineering, Computer Science, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or related field +2 years of relevant experience
• Experience working in a biotechnology environment
• Experience operating and developing methods for automated liquid handling systems required. Preferred systems include Tecan, and/or Beckman
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues that arise with liquid handling equipment and other general laboratory equipment
• Strong programming skills in Visual Basic, Python, SQL
• Good laboratory and organizational skills, the ability to work independently and efficiently is essential
• Strong creative thinking and problem-solving skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Quantization and analysis of measurements as it relates to verification and calibration
• Strong Microsoft Excel data manipulation abilities required
• Design complex algorithms to suit calculation needs
• Mechanical aptitude and 3D special awareness are a must
• Understanding precision and accuracy
• SQL and database knowledge are desirable
• Six-Sigma awareness

COMPETENCIES:

• Analytical--Synthesizes complex or diverse information; Collects and researches data; Uses intuition and experience to complement data; Designs workflows and procedures.
• Problem Solving--Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions; Works well in group problem solving situations; Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.
• Technical Skills--Assesses own strengths and weaknesses; Pursues training and development opportunities; Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills; Shares expertise with others.
• Interpersonal Skills--Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming; Maintains confidentiality; Listens to others without interrupting; Keeps emotions under control; Remains open to others' ideas and tries new things.
• Oral Communication--Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; Listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Demonstrates group presentation skills; Participates in meetings.
• Written Communication--Writes clearly and informatively; Edits work for spelling and grammar; Varies writing style to meet needs; Presents numerical data effectively; Able to read and interpret written information.
• Teamwork--Balances team and individual responsibilities; Exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views; Gives and welcomes feedback; Contributes to building a positive team spirit; Puts success of team above own interests; Able to build morale and group commitments to goals and objectives; Supports everyone's efforts to succeed.
• Leadership--Exhibits confidence in self and others; Inspires and motivates others to perform well; Effectively influences actions and opinions of others; Accepts feedback from others; Gives appropriate recognition to others.
• Ethics--Treats people with respect; Keeps commitments; Inspires the trust of others; Works with integrity and ethically; Upholds organizational values.
• Professionalism--Approaches others in a tactful manner; Reacts well under pressure; Treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position; Accepts responsibility for own actions; Follows through on commitments.
• Adaptability--Adapts to changes in the work environment; Manages competing demands; Changes approach or method to best fit the situation; Able to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events.
• Dependability--Follows instructions, responds to management direction; Takes responsibility for own actions; Keeps commitments; Commits to long hours of work when necessary to reach goals; Completes tasks on time or notifies appropriate person with an alternate plan.
• Innovation--Displays original thinking and creativity; Meets challenges with resourcefulness; Generates suggestions for improving work; Develops innovative approaches and ideas; Presents ideas and information in a manner that gets others' attention.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Frequently required to sit
• Frequently required to utilize hand and finger dexterity
• Frequently required to talk or hear
• Frequently required utilize visual acuity to operate equipment, read technical information, and/or use keyboard
• Occasionally exposure to bloodborne and airborne pathogens or infectious materials