Automation Engineer

This is a 12-month contract position. The Automation Engineer designs, configures, tests, implements, and sustains automation solutions for formulation, DNA synthesis, manufacturing workflows, and production data systems at the Petaluma site. The role partners with Manufacturing, Quality, Operational Technology, Enterprise Information Technology, and external vendors to deliver reliable, maintainable, and compliant automation solutions. This position combines hands-on equipment and workflow support with software development, MES/LIMS integration, scheduling and batching automation, production data capture, and practical deployment of automation technologies that improve productivity, data integrity, operational efficiency, and manufacturing scalability.   To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to capably perform each of the following essential duties: Develop, configure, test, troubleshoot, and verify assigned automated liquid handling workflows on Dynamic Devices, Tecan, and other production equipment, including methods, deck layouts, consumables, plates, scripts, workflow verification, and integration with related manufacturing processes Develop, modify, test, troubleshoot, and document automation and scheduling software scripts for assigned workflows using C#, Python, instrument specific programming languages, and other approved technologies Support DNA synthesis automation and workflow integration activities involving sample tracking, batch tracking, instrument status, barcode identifiers, labels, and data flow between manufacturing processes and digital systems Configure and test MES and LIMS workflows that support traceability including operator tasks, station activities, production records, instrument events, and batch status visibility Contribute to the design, implementation, configuration, and improvement of scheduling and batching automation solutions for assigned workflows, including run sequencing, dispatching, queue management, and hands-off workflow initiation, to reduce manual batching decisions and improve process consistency Execute dry runs, wet runs, process simulations, user acceptance testing, issue triage, and operational readiness testing in collaboration with Manufacturing, Quality, Process Design, and Operational Technology teams Author or contribute to work instructions, automation requirements, risk assessments, test protocols, traceability documentation, deviation records, and validation or computer software assurance deliverables in support of controlled implementation, quality review, and compliant system sustainment. Identify and communicate workflow bottlenecks, manual handoff risks, data integrity gaps, batching inefficiencies, and automation improvement opportunities for evaluation by senior engineering, quality, or management stakeholders Partner with internal stakeholders and external vendors to resolve automation issues, verify workflow performance, and ensure solutions…