Next Gen Engineer I/II, Research Operations, First Shift

Lila’s AISF Operations team operates the automated laboratory systems that power the AI Science Factory (AISF™). As a Research Operations engineer on the AISF Operations team, you will execute automated scientific workflows and operate advanced laboratory instrumentation in support of scientific discovery.

Working at the intersection of science and engineering, you will keep experiments running reliably, maintain operational readiness, and identify issues before they impact outcomes. You will collaborate closely with scientists and engineers, providing feedback that improves AISF performance and reliability.

Success in this role requires strong laboratory fundamentals, operational discipline, and attention to detail.

• Execute automated laboratory workflows using liquid handlers, plate readers, incubators, and other laboratory instrumentation.
• Monitor workflow execution and instrument performance, escalating issues to minimize downtime, waste, and experimental impact.
• Own daily startup, shutdown, cleaning, and maintenance activities for reliable operations.
• Maintain laboratory readiness, safety, and system uptime with engineering, facilities, and EHS partners.
• Troubleshoot routine workflow and equipment issues, partnering with engineering on complex failures.
• Maintain accurate documentation, SOPs, maintenance logs, and operational records.
• Identify workflow, reliability, and operational improvements that strengthen AISF performance.

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Engineering, Biotechnology, a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 4+ years of industry experience in a laboratory, biotechnology, or automation environment.
• Hands-on experience with pipetting, sample handling, aseptic technique, or molecular biology workflows.
• Experience operating laboratory instrumentation in a research, production, or high-throughput environment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality and operational excellence.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Laboratory fundamentals across pipetting accuracy, serial dilutions, plate layouts, and basic molecular biology or cell culture protocols.
• Experience operating laboratory automation platforms such as Hamilton, Tecan, Beckman, Opentrons, or similar systems.
• Experience troubleshooting laboratory instrumentation.
• Experience contributing to process improvement and operational excellence initiatives.

Lila Sciences is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status.

Information you provide during your application process will be handled in accordance with our Candidate Privacy Policy.

Lila Sciences does not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than candidates. The submission of unsolicited resumes by recruitment or staffing agencies to Lila Sciences or its employees is strictly prohibited unless contacted directly by Lila Science’s internal Talent Acquisition team. Any resume submitted by an agency in the absence of a signed agreement will automatically become the property of Lila Sciences, and Lila Sciences will not owe any referral or other fees with respect thereto.