Senior Controls Engineer

🚀 About Lila Sciences

Lila Sciences is the world’s first scientific superintelligence platform and autonomous lab for life, chemistry, and materials science.  We are pioneering a new age of boundless discovery by building the capabilities to apply AI to every aspect of the scientific method.  We are introducing scientific superintelligence to solve humankind's greatest challenges, enabling scientists to bring forth solutions in human health, climate, and sustainability at a pace and scale never experienced before. Learn more about this mission at  www.lila.ai

At Lila, we are uniquely cross-functional and collaborative. We are actively reimagining the way teams work together and communicate. Therefore, we seek individuals with an inclusive mindset and a diversity of thought. Our teams thrive in unstructured and creative environments. All voices are heard because we know that experience comes in many forms, skills are transferable, and passion goes a long way.

If this sounds like an environment you’d love to work in, even if you only have some of the experience listed below, please apply.

🌟 Your Impact at Lila

Lila is seeking a seasoned Senior/Principal Engineer, Control Systems Design to lead the design and development of control systems for automated scientific equipment. This role involves architecting advanced control systems, integrating robotics and PLC technologies, and driving strategic initiatives to enhance laboratory automation.

🛠️ What You'll Be Building

• Control System Design**:** Architect and implement sophisticated control systems utilizing PLC, DCS, and SCADA technologies to optimize laboratory workflows.


• Robotics Integration**:** Integrate advanced robotics into automation systems, ensuring interoperability and seamless operation within existing frameworks.


• Software Integration**:** Collaborate with software teams to integrate control systems with broader IT infrastructure, leveraging REST APIs, Python, and React.


• Technical Documentation**:** Develop comprehensive engineering documentation including P&ID diagrams, wiring schematics, control narratives, and instrument inventories.


• Project Management**:** Lead complex automation projects, defining scope, setting milestones, and ensuring on-time and on-budget delivery.


• System Architecture**:** Develop and optimize control system architecture, considering future scalability and integration with emerging technologies.


• Calibration and Testing**:** Oversee calibration, testing, and validation of control systems to meet strict performance and safety standards.


• Regulatory Compliance**:** Ensure all control systems comply with relevant regulations and industry best practices, including UL 508A, GMP, ISO, and FDA standards.


• Cross-Functional Collaboration**:** Interface with subject matter experts (SMEs) and cross-functional internal customers to gather requirements, understand challenges, and deliver tailored automation solutions.


• Mentorship**:** Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers, fostering a collaborative and innovative team environment.


• Continuous Improvement**:** Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance system reliability and operational efficiency.

🧰 What You’ll Need to Succeed

• 8+ years of experience in designing and implementing complex control systems for automated laboratory environments.


• Extensive knowledge of PLCs, HMI, SCADA, and related automation software and hardware.


• Experience with REST APIs, and proficiency in programming languages such as Python and frameworks like React.


• Strong proficiency in creating detailed engineering documents and schematics using tools like AutoCAD, SolidWorks Electrical, or similar.


• Proven experience with robotics integration and programming using languages such as Python, C++, or structured text for PLCs.


• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for engaging with SMEs and internal stakeholders.


• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail and a commitment to excellence.

✨ Bonus Points For

• Advanced degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related field.


• Experience in a scientific, R&D, or pharmaceutical environment with a focus on laboratory automation.


• Familiarity with Industry 4.0 concepts and IoT integration for smart laboratory solutions.

🌈 We’re All In

Lila Sciences is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status.

🤝 A Note to Agencies

Lila Sciences does not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than candidates. The submission of unsolicited resumes by recruitment or staffing agencies to Lila Sciences or its employees is strictly prohibited unless contacted directly by Lila Science’s internal Talent Acquisition team. Any resume submitted by an agency in the absence of a signed agreement will automatically become the property of Lila Sciences, and Lila Sciences will not owe any referral or other fees with respect thereto.