Laboratory Automation Engineer I

Laboratory Automation Engineer I Job ID:

req4555

Employee Type:

exempt full-time

Division:

Applied & Development Research Program Facility:

Frederick:

Ft Detrick Location:

PO Box B, Frederick, MD 21702 USA The Frederick National Laboratory is operated by Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc. The lab addresses some of the most urgent and intractable problems in the biomedical sciences in cancer and AIDS, drug development and first-in-human clinical trials, applications of nanotechnology in medicine, and rapid response to emerging threats of infectious diseases. Accountability, Compassion, Collaboration, Dedication, Integrity and Versatility; it's the FNL way.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research (FNLCR) is a Federally Funded Research and Development Center sponsored by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and operated by Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc. With more than 2,000 employees, the FNLCR is responsible for pursuing translational and applied biomedical research that is unique from academia, the pharmaceutical industry, or other federal contractors. We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Laboratory Automation Engineer I to support the optimization, operation, and maintenance of high-throughput screening (HTS) systems enabling in vitro pharmacology studies. The successful candidate will assist in developing and executing automation protocols, monitoring system performance and troubleshooting, and ensuring the integrity of experimental results and metadata generated from automated processes. This key operational support position requires both hands-on learning and adherence to established workflows, with excellent communication skills to coordinate complex projects with senior staff, scientists, and other engineers across the Molecular Pharmacology Laboratory. Work will be performed in a collaborative, fast-paced, research-intensive environment at a National Laboratory.

KEY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Screening System Operation and Scheduling:

Operate multiple HTS systems using Green Button Go and Thermo Fisher Momentum scheduling software to support in vitro assays and projects.

Protocol Execution and Support:

Assist in implementing and modifying automation protocols for screening workflows to ensure consistency and reproducibility.

Data Handling:

Support the collection, verification, and organization of data generated from automated operations for downstream analysis by scientific team members.

Screening System Monitoring and Continuity of Operations:

Monitor the performance of HTS systems and assist with calibrations, routine maintenance, and basic troubleshooting.

Training and Learning:

Participate in training for online integrated HTS systems and associated offline technologies (e.g., plate readers, dispensers, imagers) and apply those learned skills in daily operations.

Collaboration and Communication:

Work closely with other engineers, biologists, and data scientists to support complex projects, adhere to timelines, and ensure deliverables. Provide informal and formal updates and reports as needed.

Documentation:

Maintain accurate records of automation protocols, system usage, calibrations, maintenance activities, and quality control data.

Support Innovations and Enhancements:

Contribute to ongoing efforts to develop and improve automation workflows, update technologies, enhance system reliability, and ensure data integrity.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

To be considered for this position, you must minimally meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed below: Possession of Bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university according to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or four (4) years relevant experience in lieu of degree. Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency. No work experience required beyond degree. Relevant hands-on experience with laboratory automation or related laboratory technologies. For example, exposure to laboratory automation systems, instrument integration, and workflow execution (internships and academic experience will be considered). Familiarity with at least one programming or scripting language (e.g., Python, R, C++, Visual Basic, MATLAB). Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and problem-solving abilities. Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented, multidisciplinary environment. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work 100% onsite at the Fort Detrick campus in Frederick, MD. Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates with these desired skills will be given preferential consideration: Prior internship, co-op, or academic project experience in laboratory automation or biomedical research. Basic experience with CAD modeling techniques and software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Inventor). Experience in electronics integration including microcontrollers, sensors, and actuators. Basic experience in prototype manufacturing for biomedical and laboratory applications. Experience with cell culture techniques and the culturing of human lines such as organoids, stem cells, iPSCs, HUVEC. Experience with automated imaging systems and their applications to the analyses of cells including techniques such as immunostaining and immunofluorescence. Experience in applying the principles of microscopy, optics, and illumination to optimize imaging performance and improve image quality. Familiarity with scheduling software such as Thermo Fisher Momentum or Biosero Green Button Go. Experience with data analysis tools or basic scripting for handling large datasets. Experience with assay development for imaging 3D cell-based models.

JOB HAZARDS

This position is subject to working with or has the potential for exposure to animals(s) and/or animal material(s). This position is subject to working with or has the potential for exposure to infectious material, requiring medical clearance and immunizations. Commitment to Non-Discrimination All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, color, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws. Pay and Benefits Pay and benefits are fundamental to any career decision. That's why we craft compensation packages that reflect the importance of the work we do for our customers. Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave and Retirement. 77,600.00 - 110,959.00 USD The posted pay range for this job is a general guideline and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include, but are not limited to, responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities as well as internal equity, and alignment with market data. The salary range posted is a full-time equivalent salary and will vary depending on scheduled hours for part time positions