Senior Field Service Engineer (BioTech Robotics)

Job Title:

Senior Field Service EngineerLocation:

San Diego, CA (50% Travel prioritized closest to San Diego)

Salary:

$105,000 - 125,000

Requirements:

Lab Automation, Robotics, Installation, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Hardware, SoftwarePosition OverviewWe are seeking a Senior Field Service Engineer to support, install, commission and maintain advanced robotic and automation platforms used in life science laboratories. This role combines hands-on technical work with customer-facing responsibilities: you will troubleshoot and repair hardware and integration issues onsite, lead system commissioning, optimize performance for liquid handling and automation workflows, and provide technical guidance to customers and internal teams. Travel to customer sites and occasional international assignments will be required.

Key ResponsibilitiesLead installation, commissioning and acceptance testing of robotic and automation systems in life science and laboratory environments.

Perform preventive maintenance, diagnostics and repair of mechanical, electrical and electronic components on automated workstations and liquid handling platforms.

Troubleshoot complex hardware, software and communication issues including TCP/IP and RS232 interfaces, networked controllers, and instrument integrations.

Work with laboratory automation software (e.g., Cellario) and integrate robotics with LIMS, assay instrumentation and liquid handling systems.

Collaborate with engineering, applications and support teams to identify root causes, implement corrective actions and drive continuous product improvements.

Provide on-site and remote customer support, technical training, and documentation for installations, service reports and SOPs.

Manage spare parts inventory, tools and service documentation for efficient field operations.

Advise customers on best practices for operation, maintenance and safety of laboratory robotic systems and help optimize workflow throughput and uptime.

Mentor junior field engineers and contribute to training materials and service processes.

QualificationsBachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Biotechnology or related technical field; equivalent experience may be considered.5+ years experience in field service, service engineering or applications support for laboratory automation, robotics or complex instrumentation; experience in biotech or pharma environments preferred.

Proven expertise in installation, commissioning, preventive maintenance and repair of automation hardware and robotic systems.

Hands-on experience with liquid handling systems and laboratory automation workflows.

Strong troubleshooting skills across mechanical, electrical and control systems; experience with PLCs, motor controllers and sensor interfaces.

Experience with communication protocols and networking including TCP/IP and RS232; ability to diagnose networked instrument issues.

Familiarity with laboratory automation software and scheduling frameworks, such as Cellario, is highly desirable.

Proficient with mechanical assembly, wiring, cabling, calibration and use of diagnostic tools (multimeter, oscilloscope, hand tools).Excellent customer-facing skills with the ability to explain technical issues to non-technical users and deliver training onsite.

Self-motivated, flexible and able to work independently in customer environments; willingness to travel frequently and work in regulated lab settings.

Strong documentation skills and experience producing service reports, SOPs and change logs.

Valid drivers license and eligibility to travel internationally when required.

BenefitsFull Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance)401(k) Retirement PlanHealth Reimbursement ArrangementFlexible Spending AccountsLife and Disability CoverageEmployee Assistance Program