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Electrical Project Engineer

Automata

Automata

Other Engineering
Boston, MA, USA
Posted on Apr 1, 2025

Level: 3
Salary band: $105,000-$125,000
Bonus: 5% performance-based, discretionary
Location: Hybrid - work in our Cambridge, MA office up to 3x/wk


Automata is building a world-class company to disrupt the life science industry and empower scientists by making automation a reality for every lab.

We work with labs across the world to understand their specific workflows and needs, and develop personalised solutions that range from diagnostic, drug discovery to synthetic biology.

We're building our LINQ platform as a hardware and software platform. This allows us to simplify common automation tasks, while also supporting more advanced paths for specialised workflows, in a fast, flexible, and cost-efficient way.

Why Work at Automata?

  • Impact: Your work will directly contribute to advancements in science and medicine, supporting labs around the globe as they push boundaries in research and innovation.
  • Innovation: You’ll be part of a team solving complex problems (seriously, no one else has figured out how to do this yet), using cutting-edge technology (we have robots).
  • Growth: We invest in our people. Whether through hands-on experience, professional development, or collaborative projects, you’ll grow both professionally and personally.
  • Community: Join a diverse, passionate team that values collaboration (golf on a Thursday, Soccer once a month, movie nights whenever we fancy it).

Join Automata and be part of a team that’s revolutionizing the lab automation industry. You will be at the centre of how our customers experience Automata and help shape their success. You will ensure the successful implementation of our automation solutions and maintain our commitment to excellence in the life sciences industry. Automata relies on the expertise of our team of electrical engineers to deliver our products, adhere to our roadmap, and empower scientists with cutting-edge technologies.

In this role you will be responsible for:

  • Collaborating closely with the customer success team to understand project requirements and expectations for each project.
  • Developing detailed electrical designs and specifications for automation solutions, utilizing both existing product range and innovative new solutions as needed.
  • Coordinating with internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure alignment on technical requirements, project timelines, and resource allocation.
  • Identifying opportunities for process optimization and innovation in electrical design and delivery processes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Overseeing the execution of electrical design projects, including prototyping, testing, and validation of concepts to ensure optimal functionality and performance.
  • Engaging with suppliers and vendors to source components, align on technical specifications, and manage relationships to ensure timely delivery and quality standards.
  • Maintaining accurate documentation of electrical designs, including technical specifications, schematics, and progress reports, to provide transparency and updates to stakeholders.
  • Proactively identifying and address any changes or challenges in project scope, schedule, or requirements, and communicate effectively with all involved parties.
  • Implementing quality control processes to ensure that electrical designs meet regulatory standards, performance metrics, and customer expectations.
  • Providing technical expertise and support within the hardware team, offering insights and guidance on electrical aspects of product development and delivery.


What it takes:

  • 3+ years of experience in electrical engineering, with a preference for experience in laboratory automation or a related field, like industrial automation.
  • Proficiency in modern CAD packages, such as EPLAN, for electrical design and documentation.
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a closely related field, or equivalent practical experience.
  • Proven track record of collaborating effectively in cross-functional engineering teams to achieve project goals.
  • Detail-oriented mindset with a commitment to delivering high-quality results, consistently meeting deadlines, and managing project budgets effectively.
  • Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze complex technical issues and devise innovative, practical solutions.
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, for clear and effective interaction with internal teams, external stakeholders, and suppliers.
  • Knowledge of regulatory standards and compliance requirements relevant to electrical design and industrial automation, ensuring adherence to industry regulations and safety protocols.
  • Experience in project management methodologies and tools, with the ability to develop and execute project plans, manage resources, and mitigate risks effectively.
  • Adaptability and willingness to learn, keeping up-to-date with advancements in electrical engineering technologies and methodologies to drive continuous improvement and innovation in the role.
  • Working knowledge of functional safety principles and how to implement safety devices into the electrical architecture
  • Experience in fast paced environments
  • Located in the Greater Boston area, and able to commute to our US offices in Cambridge and Newton, MA
  • Willingness to travel as-needed for customer projects

Nice to haves:

  • Familiarity with coding languages, such as Python
  • Familiarity with machine safety standards (e.g. ISO 12100, IEC 60204)
  • Safety controller programming experience (e.g. Pilz, Beckhoff TwinSAFE)
  • Understanding of US regulatory requirements for electrical installations
  • Exposure to risk assessment methodologies (e.g., FMEA) and reliability engineering principles, enabling proactive identification and mitigation of potential project risks.
  • Experience with procurement and supply chain management processes, supporting efficient sourcing of components and materials for project implementation
  • Experience in start-up environments

US team benefits:

Healthcare 🩺
Competitive healthcare for you and your family

401k 💰
We offer a 401(k) retirement savings plan

Well-being budget ☀️
Invest in your own well-being, personal growth, and hobbies

Holiday 🏖
30 days + 12 public holidays

Additional leave days ☺️
Time off for dependents, 'Me days', birthdays and volunteering days off

Birthday trees 🌳
Planting a tree for every employee on their birthday, every year

Paid sick leave 🏥
10 days paid sick leave to stay home and focus on rest and recovery

Mental health support 🧠
Access the therapy for you and your family through Spill

Career progression frameworks 💫
Each department & discipline has a progression framework


We are an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Discrimination of any kind based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status is strictly prohibited.