Senior Automation Engineer

at  Quest Diagnostics

REQUIRED WORK EXPERIENCE:

• Demonstrated ability to service and support complex automation, track systems, and/or robotic arms
• Investigates defects or errors in the technology
• Develops tests and simulations to ensure the systems work as intended

PREFERRED WORK EXPERIENCE:

• Experience with liquid handling instrument including script / method development
• Familiar with highly regulated environments (e.g., CAP, CLIA, ISO15189, etc.)

KNOWLEDGE:

• Extensive knowledge of troubleshooting, PM and / or calibration requirements.
• Experience with service documentation systems (i.e., Computerized Maintenance Management Systems).
• Demonstrated ability to build and implement preventive maintenance programs to minimize equipment downtime / maximize lab instrument availability.
• Knowledge of robotics, process automation, electrical principles, computer-aided design.
• Basic knowledge of (a) scheduler software programming and (b) programming languages (like Java, C# and Python).
• Identify opportunities to increase efficiency with automation.

SKILLS:

• Interacts professionally and courteously with all levels of laboratory personnel when servicing and/or maintaining equipment.
• Strong computer skills (i.e. word processing skills using Windows based software such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Able to work in a fast paced, multi-tasking environment and maintain production and quality standards determined by the department.
• Excellent problem solving and troubleshooting skills, independent thinker
• Ability to work independently and on a team
• Proficient in reading both mechanical drawings and electrical schematics to isolate a problem and determine root cause
• Excellent communication skills, written and verbal
• Strong project management skills

EDUCATION:

Bachelor’s Degree Required
Master’s Degree Preferred

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Manual dexterity adequate to handle small tools requiring intricate manipulations of small pieces in confined areas.
• Must be able to react to auditory warnings and messages.
• Must be able to differentiate between color coded wires and interpret visual readouts. Must pass color blindness screening.
• Objects in the weight range of 1 to 10 pounds are lifted and carried frequently; objects in the weight range of 11 to 25 pounds are lifted and carried occasionally and objects in the weight range of 26 to 50 pounds are seldom lifted and carried. Objects exceeding 50 pounds are not to be lifted or carried without assistance.
• Must be able to sit or stand for long periods of time, and requires long hours of eye and hand coordination.

Responsibilities:

• Responsible for the operation, preventive maintenance, and repair of advanced automated equipment which supports continuous, 24/7 operations.
• Strong ability with software testing and validation
• Ability to assess priority of equipment repair or maintenance.
• Maintains inventory of all service parts and materials as necessary in a cost-efficient manner.
• Record Keeping - Maintains accurate and detailed records on all laboratory instrumentation associated with the system to include service/repair reports, calibrations, preventive maintenance, and current operational status of equipment.
• Submits status reports to the Biomedical Supervisor and Laboratory Manager on a regular schedule; ensures the priorities of the integrated system are fully supported (i.e., budgeting, setting goals, maintaining parts inventory, evaluating progress toward achieving department objectives).
• Safety - adheres to all company and accepted industry safety procedures (i.e. electrical, electronic, and biological) while performing job duties.
• Act as a liaison to other service engineers or vendor reps. Work with the vendors to attend all advanced Biomedical training courses