Automation Support Engineer at Natera

Austin, Texas, United States

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

Mid-level (3 to 4 years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Life Sciences, Biotechnology, DiagnosticsIndustries

Requirements

BS in engineering or related scientific field, or equivalent experience (MS preferred)
2+ years in lab automation engineering, ideally in life sciences, biotech, pharma, or clinical settings
Hands-on experience with robotics, liquid handling systems, and automation integration
Strong programming or scripting foundation (method writing, labware configuration, or similar)
Familiarity with automated storage systems (Hamilton Verso, SPT Labtech, etc.) is a plus
Flexibility to adapt to evolving priorities and occasional evening support needs
Must have a flexible schedule and be able to accommodate later hours when needed
Ability to travel between local Austin sites, within 1 mile, to support multiple labs

Responsibilities

Troubleshoot, qualify, and optimize automated liquid handling systems
Build rapport with end-users and act as a trusted partner across R&D and clinical labs
Develop and maintain documentation, SOPs, and validation protocols (IQ/OQ/PQ)
Oversee equipment qualification and ensure seamless adoption in the labs
Provide user training, ongoing support, and continuous improvements
Collaborate on cross-functional projects, contributing to both short-term fixes and long-term solutions
Support and improve a fleet of state-of-the-art liquid handling robots and automated systems (e.g., Tecan Fluent, Hamilton STAR and Vantage, Beckman I7)
Partner with scientists and engineers to design and deliver automation solutions that increase lab efficiency, scalability, and reliability
Contribute to innovation projects by conceptualizing, designing, and implementing new tools, workflows, and optimizations

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Tecan FluentHamilton STARHamilton VantageBeckman I7liquid handling robotsautomation troubleshootingequipment qualificationIQ/OQ/PQSOPsvalidation protocolslab automationrobotics

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What is the location for this Automation Support Engineer role?

The role is based in Austin TX, with the ability to travel between local sites within 1 mile to support multiple labs.

What are the required qualifications and experience for this position?

Candidates need a BS in engineering or related scientific field (MS preferred), 2+ years in lab automation engineering ideally in life sciences or biotech, and hands-on experience with robotics and liquid handling systems.

What specific systems will I work with in this role?

You'll provide hands-on services for major liquid handling manufacturers including Tecan Fluent, Hamilton STAR and Vantage, and Beckman I7, plus familiarity with automated storage systems like Hamilton Verso and SPT Labtech is a plus.

What is the work schedule like for this position?

The role requires a flexible schedule to accommodate later hours when needed and occasional evening support.

What skills set candidates apart for this Automation Support Engineer role?

Strong project management and organizational skills, excellent communication skills to translate technical concepts, and a proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with eagerness to take initiative.

Natera

Genetic testing and diagnostics solutions provider

About Natera

Natera focuses on genetic testing and diagnostics, providing advanced solutions for cancer patients, transplant patients, and individuals assessing hereditary health risks. Their main technology is cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing, which analyzes DNA fragments in the blood to detect minimal traces of cancer and assess organ health. Natera stands out by offering specialized tests like the Signatera ctDNA test and Panorama NIPT, along with genetic counseling services. The company's goal is to improve patient care and health outcomes through accurate genetic testing.

Austin, TexasHeadquarters

2004Year Founded

$149.9MTotal Funding

IPOCompany Stage

Biotechnology, HealthcareIndustries

1,001-5,000Employees

Benefits

Flexible medical plans

Investment options

Time off

Workplace perks

Risks

Hindenburg report accuses Natera of deceptive sales practices, risking legal challenges.

New Prospera Heart features may face slow adoption by healthcare providers.

Fetal RhD NIPT demand may drop post-RhIg shortage, affecting future sales.

Differentiation

Natera's Signatera test offers personalized ctDNA analysis for cancer patients.

Prospera Heart test uses unique Donor Quantity Score for transplant rejection detection.

Panorama NIPT test is a leader in non-invasive prenatal testing with 2 million tests.

Upsides

Increased adoption of liquid biopsy techniques boosts demand for Natera's cfDNA tests.

AI integration enhances accuracy and speed of Natera's cfDNA analysis.

Growing personalized medicine trend aligns with Natera's customized genetic tests.

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