Lead Lab Robotics & Automation Engineer

Overview

Lead Automation Development Engineer (Robotics) at Quest Diagnostics. Reporting to the Sr. Automation Manager, this role serves as a technical leader and subject matter expert in laboratory robotics and automation. Drives the design, development, deployment, and sustainment of advanced automated systems across sites, delivering high-reliability solutions that enhance laboratory efficiency, accuracy, and scalability.

The Staff Engineer operates with substantial independence, anticipating challenges, developing innovative solutions, and influencing technical strategy. Leads cross-functional initiatives, guides troubleshooting on production systems, and spearheads the development of new scripts, recovery methods, and workflows. Requires deep expertise in programming liquid handlers (primarily Hamilton / Venus), strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and effective communication across organizational levels.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and deployment of advanced automation systems and ensure seamless integration into production and R&D workflows.
• Develop complex automation scripts and recovery methods for new assays / workflows, including error handling, custom liquid classes, water / simulation runs, and data analysis.
• Oversee and guide troubleshooting of production automation systems to maintain turnaround time (TAT) requirements and maximize uptime.
• Analyze automation metrics and sample data to drive iterative optimization and inform future system enhancements.
• Act as a technical lead and mentor, providing guidance to engineers, development scientists, and operational staff on best practices, system capabilities, and troubleshooting approaches.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with R&D, bioinformatics, operations, and facilities teams to design automated workflows and ensure robust system performance.
• Define and communicate automation strategies, progress, risks, and solutions to automation leadership, senior stakeholders, and cross-site teams.
• Lead validation efforts, including software verification, system testing, and qualification documentation for new programs, hardware, and integrations.
• Oversee preventive maintenance and repair of advanced automated instruments supporting continuous 24 / 7 operations, coordinating with vendors as needed.
• Stay current with industry developments, emerging technologies, and regulatory expectations to guide long-term automation strategy.

Qualifications

Required Experience & Expertise

Preferred Experience

Education

Skills And Attributes

About The Team

Quest Diagnostics honors our service members and encourages veterans to apply.

Equal Opportunity Employer : Race / Color / Sex / Sexual Orientation / Gender Identity / Religion / National Origin / Disability / Vets or any other legally protected status.

Job Details

Note : This job posting contains internal references to related roles; referrals may increase interview opportunities. This posting does not include any external resume submission requirements beyond the listed responsibilities and qualifications.

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