Engineer III, Assay Automation

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Assay Automation Engineer III is responsible for leading the design, development, integration and testing of automated assay protocols using custom and standard microplate handling, processing, and pipetting equipment; as well as formal verification and validation testing. The incumbent is responsible for developing complex automation scripts, analyzing data, drawing conclusions, providing recommendations on relevant data and presenting findings.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead cross-functional teams to support the design and development of automated assay methods for MSD and other instrumentation
• Experimentally and analytically characterize hardware system and subsystem performance and capabilities
• Design, implement, and optimize software sequences for automation of assay protocols on MSD and other instrumentation
• Lead the development and documentation of failure modes, effects and critical analyses
• Provide recommendations and participate in the development of system design requirements and specifications, including interfacing with other teams to gather and refine requirements
• Lead in the development and execution of system design verification and validation test plans
• Develop, assist and lead other team members with the implementation of hardware system and subsystem reliability test plans
• Design, generate, and implement change orders to promote product design and process improvements
• Specific duties may vary depending on departmental requirements

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Engineering or related field
• A minimum of 10 years of experience with scientific or medical instrumentation 
• Experience with immunoassays required 
• Experience with MSD assays is highly preferred
• Experience interfacing directly with customers building laboratory automated platforms highly preferred
• Experience in an ISO cGMP environment preferred
• Experience with the service of laboratory automation equipment preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Expert knowledge of data analysis tools such as Excel, VBA, Python, Matlab, Minitab, or similar is required
• Proficiency in MS Office suite and engineering computing software is required
• Working knowledge of analytical techniques, experimental design, and statistical analysis 
• Proficiency working with laboratory automation such as liquid handlers, plate robotics, and other automation equipment
• Demonstrated critical thinking and analytical skills, as well as the ability to handle complex situations and demonstrate sound judgment and problem-solving
• Demonstrated ability to organize and move project tasks forward in an orderly and structured fashion
• Excellent organizational, planning, and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple and often changing priorities and issues of varying complexity, while meeting time-sensitive deadlines and deliverables.
• Superior communication (written and verbal) skills with the ability to translate information into a meaningful, understandable context and message, regardless of the format (e.g., documents, public speaking situations, presentations, etc.)
• Demonstrated propensity to be creative, collaborative, proactive, and self-motivated in the execution and completion of assigned accountabilities.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This position requires the ability to communicate and exchange information, utilize equipment necessary to perform the job, and move about the office and lab.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This position is performed in R&D, light-manufacturing, and engineering office environments

COMPENSATION SUMMARY

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $98,800 to $150,700. This salary range represents a general guideline as MSD considers other factors when presenting an offer of employment, such as scope and responsibilities of the position, external market factors, and the candidate’s knowledge, skills, abilities, education and experience. Employees may qualify for a discretionary or non-discretionary bonus in addition to their base salary. These annual bonuses are intended to recognize individual performance and enable employees to benefit from the Company's overall success.

BENEFITS SUMMARY

At MSD, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and financial security. In addition to competitive salaries, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with prescription benefits. We provide a 401(k) plan with company matching, flexible spending accounts, and company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance as well as group life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance. Our offerings also encompass paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid holidays, and paid parental leave, along with an employee assistance program. Additional voluntary perks include a fitness club membership contribution, pet insurance, identity theft protection, home and auto insurance discounts, and optional supplemental life insurance.

EEO/AA STATEMENT

MSD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, age, protected veteran status, pregnancy, disability status, or any other protected characteristic. For our full EEO/AA and Pay Transparency statement, please visit here. Meso Scale Diagnostics uses E-Verify to validate the work eligibility of candidates.

Salary : $98,800 - $150,700