Automation Engineer - Lighthouse Lab Services

Lighthouse Lab Services is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Automation Engineer in Louisville, KY. This role focuses on designing, implementing, and maintaining automation systems, particularly liquid handling systems, to support high-throughput diagnostic testing and laboratory operations. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in automation technologies, protocol development, and assay optimization, coupled with a passion for problem-solving and innovation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Program complex processes on liquid handling systems, managing all aspects from requirements gathering to hands-on development and testing.
• Lead the design and implementation of automation solutions to ensure scalability, sustainability, and reliability.
• Manage multiple systems in core lab environments, establishing best practices, proactively monitoring performance, and responding to errors promptly.
• Perform audits across automated equipment and associated documentation to ensure quality assurance (QA).
• Lead troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and resolution of automation-related issues to minimize downtime.
• Work with cross-functional teams, including scientists, IT, facilities, and vendors, to design, configure, and support system infrastructure.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to team members and new users of automation systems.
• Develop comprehensive documentation, including IQ/OQ/PQ protocols, change management records, method requirements, and specifications.
• Collaborate with service engineers on system diagnostics and repairs.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a science or engineering discipline.
• Research associate experience is a plus.
• Minimum of 2+ years of hands-on experience with liquid handling systems (e.g., Hamilton Vantage, Tecan EVO, Agilent Bravo, or similar platforms).
• Proven expertise in assay development, optimization, and validation of biological assays.
• Strong background in integrated system operation and automation scheduling software.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and adaptability to change.
• Hands-on experience with Venus Software, Venus over Vantage Method Development, and Hamilton Liquid Verification (preferred but not required).
• Familiarity with microbiology, molecular biology, and high-throughput diagnostic testing.
• Ability to create and maintain detailed process development documents.

Salary/Benefits/Relocation

• Salary Range: $110,000 - $120,000/year
• Benefits: Full Benefits including PTO and 401k
• Relocation Assistance: Up to $10,000
  Schedule: Monday – Friday, 5:00 AM – 1:30 PM

ABOUT US:

At Lighthouse Lab Services, we offer solutions to help start, grow, and run clinical laboratories. Our recruiting team has over 20 years of proven success placing job seekers in positions ranging from entry level Medical Technologists to seasoned Laboratory Directors. We recruit nationwide, for permanent and travel positions with clients ranging from small hospitals to large reference laboratories.

It is the policy of Lighthouse Lab Services to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. Lighthouse Lab Services is committed to working and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including persons with disabilities. If at any time during the application process, you need an accommodation, please contact recruiting@lighthouselabservices.comfor assistance.

Lighthouse Lab Services | 844-334-1658 | lighthouselabservices.com

#LLS3