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Salary: USD 75,600 - 124,800 / annual
Lila Sciences is seeking a versatile and detail-oriented Engineer I/II to join the Research Operations team, which executes automated laboratory workflows powering the company's scientific platform. You will independently execute high-throughput workflows across DNA, RNA, mRNA, protein, and cell-based applications while working closely with cross-functional teams of scientists and engineers.
Key responsibilities include:
- Independently execute high-throughput automated and manual workflows across multiple biological applications
- Prepare and verify reagents, samples, labware, and consumables for workflow execution
- Operate laboratory instrumentation including liquid handlers, plate readers, incubators, and integrated workcells
- Monitor workflow execution and quality-control results, troubleshoot equipment or process issues, and coordinate escalation of complex failures
- Serve as a scientific and operational partner to cross-functional teams, translating workflow requirements and observations into actionable feedback
- Perform startup, shutdown, cleaning, routine maintenance, and readiness activities to support safe and reliable operations
- Maintain accurate and traceable workflow records, SOPs, technical instructions, and cross-shift handoffs
- Identify and implement improvements that strengthen workflow reliability, efficiency, scalability, and operational coverage
This is an on-site, first-shift role with scheduled hours of either 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM or 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM based on operational needs. Level (I or II) will be determined based on experience, technical breadth, and demonstrated independence.
Lila Sciences is building Scientific Superintelligence to solve major challenges by combining advanced AI models with proprietary AI Science Factory instruments into an operating system for science that executes the scientific method autonomously, accelerating discovery across medicine, materials, and energy.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biotechnology, Bioengineering, or related scientific/engineering field, plus minimum 3 years of relevant industry laboratory experience (applicable co-op experience may count toward this requirement)
- Hands-on experience with core laboratory techniques: pipetting, reagent preparation, sample handling, serial dilution, plate-based workflows, aseptic technique
- Experience operating laboratory automation or instrumentation in research, production, or high-throughput environments
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including ability to interpret quality-control results, recognize unexpected workflow behavior, perform initial troubleshooting, and escalate appropriately
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow SOPs and technical instructions while maintaining accurate, complete, and traceable documentation
- Demonstrated ability to learn new scientific workflows, work independently, manage competing priorities, and apply training accurately as operational needs evolve
- Strong communication and collaboration skills across scientific, engineering, and operational teams
- Ability to work on-site during first shift with specified hours
Bonus qualifications:
- Hands-on experience across multiple biological workflow areas (DNA, RNA, mRNA, protein, mammalian cell culture, LNP)
- Experience operating laboratory automation platforms (Hamilton, Tecan, Beckman, Echo, Opentrons, or similar)
- Experience partnering with hardware or automation engineers on instrument integration, testing, qualification, or workflow deployment
- Experience troubleshooting laboratory instrumentation, performing routine maintenance, or supporting root-cause investigations
- Experience reviewing and interpreting quality-control data from automated laboratory workflows
- Familiarity with laboratory information management, sample-tracking, maintenance, or workflow-scheduling systems
- Experience identifying and implementing process improvements
- Willingness to provide occasional second-shift coverage (2:00 PM to 10:00 PM) with advance notice
