Laboratory Automation Design Engineer

Join to apply for the Laboratory Automation Design Engineer role at Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research .Job ID: req4434Employee Type: exempt full-timeDivision: Applied & Development Research ProgramFacility: Frederick: Ft DetrickLocation: PO Box B, Frederick, MD 21702 USA The Frederick National Laboratory is operated by Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc. The lab addresses some of the most urgent and intractable problems in the biomedical sciences in cancer and AIDS, drug development and first‑in‑human clinical trials, applications of nanotechnology in medicine, and rapid response to emerging threats of infectious diseases.Accountability, Compassion, Collaboration, Dedication, Integrity and Versatility; it's the FNL way. Program Description The Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research (FNLCR) is a Federally Funded Research and Development Center sponsored by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and operated by Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc. With more than 2,000 employees, the FNLCR is responsible for pursuing translational and applied biomedical research that is unique from academia, the pharmaceutical industry, or other federal contractors. The selected candidate will join the Standardized Organoid Modeling (SOM) Center, located at the Fort Detrick campus, which is being established as a national resource for the standardization of organoid‑based New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) to ensure the reliable use of organoids in drug discovery, disease modeling, and toxicity testing. The successful candidate will lead the design, integration, and validation of automated laboratory systems that enable standardized organoid testing and cell culture workflows. This position requires deep expertise in laboratory automation, mechanical design, and systems engineering, as well as the ability to manage technical scope, mentor junior staff, and collaborate closely with multidisciplinary scientific teams. The successful candidate will be responsible for engineering project leadership, including system architecture, specification drafting, design review, hardware integration, facility planning, and ongoing system optimization. Key Roles / Responsibilities Automated System Design and Development Lead the design, digital modeling, and implementation of automated systems supporting SOM Center operations. Define the project scope of work and develop system requirements documents and functional specifications. Conduct design reviews and ensure compliance with laboratory safety and operational standards. Perform equipment testing, system validation, and performance qualification. Oversee the development of SOM Center’s core automation systems, including: Organoid Functional Testing System: supports high‑throughput characterization, drug testing and microplate‑based assays using microplate readers and high‑content imaging systems. Organoid Cell Culture Support System: automates workflows for organoid culturing and sample preparation. Mechanical Design and Customization Utilize SolidWorks and related CAD tools for digital design of custom frameworks and modular automation enclosures. Determine and implement safety and containment requirements, including enclosure design for operator protection and sample sterility. Manage the fabrication and assembly of custom parts, fixtures, and laboratory apparatuses. Maintain detailed design documentation, engineering drawings, and configuration control. Facility Planning and Infrastructure Support Provide engineering support for new SOM Center laboratory buildouts, including space planning, equipment layout, and utility coordination. Evaluate and advise on building infrastructure modifications (e.g., floor load capacity, lab ventilation, safety systems). Coordinate with Facilities Maintenance and Engineering (FME) to implement building services such as alarm systems, nitrogen gas, and liquid nitrogen supply. Support the phased transition of the Molecular Pharmacology Laboratory (MPL) to a new facility, including: Disassembly, relocation, and reassembly of two large automated HTS systems. Design and implementation of mechanical upgrades during the move. Post‑move validation and qualification of systems. Operational and Leadership Responsibilities Provide engineering‑based counsel to scientific staff on automation design and system utilization. Mentor and develop junior engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and safety. Perform hands‑on testing, including teaching robot positions, paths, and verifying instrument drivers. Troubleshoot hardware and software issues associated with automation platforms and peripheral devices. Coordinate or perform routine preventive maintenance and ensure uptime of automated systems. Ensure traceable documentation of all engineering activities, test results, and system updates. Basic Qualifications Possession of Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university according to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or four (4) years relevant experience in lieu of degree. Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency. In addition to the education requirement, a minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience. Demonstrated proficiency with SolidWorks or equivalent CAD tools for mechanical design. Experience with liquid handling systems and robotic platforms. Prior industry or biotech experience. Proven ability to develop engineering documentation, system specifications, and technical reports. Strong understanding of laboratory safety, containment, and ergonomic design principles. Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills. Ability to work 100% onsite at the Fort Detrick campus in Frederick, MD. Ability to travel occasionally (