Automation Engineer II

About Pivot Bio:  

Fueled by an innovative drive and a deep understanding of microbiology, genomics, crop nutrition and agriculture, Pivot Bio is pioneering game-changing advances in fertilizer technology. Our first commercial product harnesses the power of naturally-occurring microbes, modern gene editing and application technologies to provide nitrogen to crops.  We are dedicated to providing new solutions for farmers to improve yield as they work to help feed the world’s growing population. Read/Hear more about Pivot Bio on Forbes or PBS News Hour.

The Discovery and Translational Research team (DTR) at Pivot Bio is looking for a Laboratory Automation Engineer who is excited about the challenges of working with novel soil microbes in a high-impact, fast-moving, and supportive team​ environment​.  

The Automation Engineer II will advance the product development pipeline by planning, engineering, and supporting laboratory operations’ robotic systems. The role will be key in the continual expansion of our laboratory assay capabilities and take part in working with scientists to drive efficiency and accuracy in agricultural product discovery. This individual will coordinate across teams, drive projects forward, and develop cutting-edge tools to expand our capabilities within the lab.    

This is a Temporary, 6 month position.

Essential Functions  

• Design and implement robotic methods to automate new and existing workflows in Pivot Bio’s areas of scientific research.     
• Design, implement, and execute plans for maintenance and system performance for robotic lab equipment such as liquid handlers, robotic arms, and integrated devices.  
• Operation of Pivot Bio’s automated workflows and error recovery within these workflows 
• Stand up new automation platforms and train others on their safe operation.  
• Working with third-party vendors to support high-throughput equipment.    
• Assist with space planning and logistics of automation activities to meet the needs of end users and the automation team.  
• Write and train operators on SOPs to deliver consistent, high-quality results.  

Competencies 

Knowledge & Application 

• Proven aptitude in handling processes on robotic workstations including liquid handlers and colony pickers using control software such as Beckman Coulter Biomek software or Hamilton VENUS.   
• Experience with integrated work-cells and/or robotic sample storage systems using scheduling software such as Agilent VWorks or Biosero Green Button Go preferred.  
• Programming experience, particularly with common lab automation languages such as C#, VBScript, and JavaScript.  
• Experience with rapid prototyping tools such as CAD, CNC-milling, and 3D-printing is preferred.  

Complexity & Problem Solving 

• Applies learned techniques and contributes to analysis and investigation to solve problems.   
• Work with fellow automation engineers and researchers to prioritize and deliver solutions. 

Collaboration & Interaction 

• Excellent communication skills with experience in collaborating with interdisciplinary and cross-functional teams.  
• Ability to work self-directed and as part of a coordinated, multi-disciplinary team.  
• Interact and collaborate with a solutions-focused, attention to detail, and sense of urgency mindset.  

Work Environment  

• Job will involve mostly office and computer-based work  
• Sedentary work that involves sitting/standing  
• Occasionally lift or team-lift 20-40 lbs 

Required Education & Experience 

• BA/BS or higher, in an engineering or scientific discipline with 1-3 years of experience with robotic liquid handling workstations or an equivalent amount of related experience.  Biological disciplines are preferred but not required.    
• Exceptional organizational and interpersonal skills.    
• Must be flexible and responsive to changing priorities. 

Must be authorized to work in the United States. 

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