Automation Engineer, Lab Automation & Robotics

Company Overview

Intrepid Labs is transforming drug delivery through the convergence of automation, machine learning, and pharmaceutical science. Our platform combines active machine learning, advanced robotics, and deep formulation expertise to accelerate the development of next-generation drug products. We are looking for an Automation Engineer to join our engineering team and help build, integrate, test, and support the automated laboratory workflows that power our platform.

About the Role

This role is ideal for an engineer with 2 to 5 years of experience in automation, robotics, mechatronics, or controls who enjoys working hands-on with hardware and writing the software that drives it. Reporting to the Lead Automation Engineer, you will build, integrate, test, and support automated laboratory workflows: robotic arms, liquid handling platforms, and analytical instruments working together under our orchestration software. We are also open to new graduates with the right background.

You will work at the intersection of robotics, software, and laboratory science. As our automation function grows, you will take on device integration, testing, and support work in parallel with active client projects, share on-call coverage for running systems, and help free up engineering time for system design and new capabilities. This is an on-site role, as much of the work is hands-on with hardware in the lab.

Key Responsibilities

Hardware Integration & Commissioning

· Set up, wire, configure, and commission robotic arms, liquid handlers, sensors, and lab instruments.

· Build and modify fixtures, enclosures, cabling, and simple control panels.

· Read electrical schematics, datasheets, and device communication specs.

Programming & Software Integration

· Write and maintain device drivers and integration code in Python and C#.

· Connect devices to our orchestration platform over serial, TCP/IP, HTTP/REST, Modbus, and vendor SDKs.

· Program robot motions, teach positions, and build reliable pick-and-place routines.

Testing & Support

· Execute test runs, log results, and diagnose failures across mechanical, electrical, and software layers.

· Provide first-line troubleshooting and share on-call coverage for running systems.

Documentation & Project Work

· Write setup guides, wiring diagrams, SOPs, and test reports.

· Support client projects through build, installation, and handover.

· Use Git and follow the code review practices set by the Lead Automation Engineer.

Qualifications

· University degree in electrical, mechatronics, robotics, computer, or automation engineering. Exceptional candidates with a college diploma in engineering technology or a related field will also be considered.

· 2+ years of hands-on experience integrating hardware with software, including co-op or internship terms. New grads with strong co-op, capstone, or personal hardware projects are welcome to apply.

· Working proficiency in Python; comfortable reading and modifying C#.

· Practical electrical skills: wiring, multimeter use, reading schematics, and basic power and signal troubleshooting.

· Hands-on experience integrating hardware of any kind (robots, motion systems, instruments, sensors, embedded devices); robotics experience is a plus.

· Familiarity with device communication: serial (RS-232/485), TCP/IP sockets, and REST APIs.

· Methodical debugging habits and clear written documentation.

· Eligible to work in Canada.

Nice to Have

· Experience with lab automation equipment: liquid handlers (Opentrons, Hamilton, Tecan), plate readers, autosamplers, and balances.

· Experience with Linux, Docker, or basic networking setup.

· Machine vision or barcode/RFID integration.

· P.Eng. or EIT status, or working toward it.

What Success Looks Like

· Within the first 3 months, you know our main systems, execute test runs independently, and handle routine troubleshooting with guidance.

· Within 6 months, you are integrating new devices into our orchestration platform end to end and covering on-call and vacation periods without escalation for common issues.

· Within 12 months, you own a client project workstream from build through handover, and documentation and SOPs for our core systems are up to date.

Who You Are

· You enjoy working hands-on with hardware and writing the software that drives it.

· You debug methodically across mechanical, electrical, and software layers.

· You document your work clearly so others can build on it.

· You are comfortable working under technical direction while growing toward owning project workstreams.

· You are excited to work on a team building AI-enabled drug delivery technology.

Why Join Intrepid Labs?

· Work at the intersection of automation, AI, and pharmaceutical innovation.

· Play a hands-on role in building and extending the automated workflows at the core of our platform.

· Competitive compensation and benefits package.

· Opportunities for professional growth and career development.

· Grow with a fast-moving biotech company building a differentiated platform for drug delivery innovation.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and vision for the role to riley@intrepidlabs.ai.

Intrepid Labs encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences. If you need accommodations at any stage of the application or interview process, please let us know.

Join us and be part of a dynamic team that celebrates diversity of thought and experience.