Automation Engineer (I, II, III)

Company: Cellares
Location: South San Francisco
Posted on: February 18, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description We are seeking an Automation Engineer to contribute to the development, implementation, and optimization of innovative lab automation systems. The role involves enabling scalable and robust end-to-end automated workflows for high-throughput cell therapy manufacturing QC testing. The successful candidate will play a key role in developing and managing liquid handling methods, as well as supporting the integration of specified off-the-shelf instruments and custom hardware within a fully automated workcell. Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams, the hire will contribute to iterating on various aspects of system designs and developing strategies for workflow optimization. Additionally, the role involves leading the development and testing of specific verification and validation plans for our automation systems. Candidates should enjoy working in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment and be prepared to tackle a broad selection of challenges as the company grows. Responsibilities Transfer and validated manual to automated QC workflow steps Develop, validate, and optimize automated methods for sample preparation, analysis, and data collection Design and execute validation experiments to optimize assay and workflow parameters Conduct verification and validation testing of integrated systems to verify proper functionality and performance Analyze automation workflows to identify bottlenecks and areas for optimization Implement troubleshooting methodologies to identify and resolve complex assay method issues Requirements Bachelor's or higher degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Biotechnology, or a related field 2-4 years of experience designing, implementing, and maintaining laboratory automation systems Experience programming and optimizing liquid handling methods Experience developing and implementing integrated automation solutions using Biosero’s Green Button Go software Experience with laboratory analytical instruments and automated systems Experience integrating and managing assay results with LIMS Familiar with flow cytometry, genomic, and cell-based assays Strong technical writing skills and experience authoring Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), documentation, and training materials Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or C# Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot technical issues Strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams Attention to detail and the ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks simultaneously Creative, self-motivated, eager to take on a wide variety of tasks and grow with the evolving technology Self-awareness, integrity, authenticity, and a growth mindset Cellares total compensation package contains competitive base salaries, highly subsidized Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans, 401(k) Matching, Free EV Charging, Onsite lunches, and Stock options. All displayed pay ranges are approximate, negotiable, and location dependent. This is Cellares Cellares is the first Integrated Development and Manufacturing Organization (IDMO) and takes an Industry 4.0 approach to mass manufacturing the living drugs of the 21st century. The company is both developing and operating integrated technologies for cell therapy manufacturing to accelerate access to life-saving cell therapies. The company’s Cell Shuttle integrates all the technologies required for the entire manufacturing process in a flexible and high-throughput platform that delivers true walk-away, end-to-end automation. Cell Shuttles will be deployed in Cellares’ Smart Factories around the world to meet total patient demand for cell therapies at global scale. Partnering with Cellares enables academics, biotechs, and pharma companies to accelerate drug development and scale out manufacturing, lower process failure rates, lower manufacturing costs, and meet global patient demand. The company is headquartered in South San Francisco, California with its commercial-scale IDMO Smart Factory in Bridgewater, New Jersey. The company is backed by world-class investors and has raised over $355 million in financing. Leveling will be based on overall experience, education, and demonstration of knowledge throughout the interview process. We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

Keywords: Cellares, Berkeley , Automation Engineer (I, II, III), Science, Research & Development , South San Francisco, California