Principal Software Engineer, Instrument Simulations

The role

You will architect and lead the development of a next-generation laboratory automation platform. This involves designing simulation infrastructure and integration layers that connect AI-driven experimental design with physical robotic systems.

What you will do

• Architect and implement high-fidelity simulation environments for laboratory instrumentation, fluidics, and robotic workflows
• Design integration patterns between heterogeneous hardware systems
• Lead development of APIs and interfaces for scientists and AI agents
• Maintain and establish best practices for hardware-software integration, system monitoring, and CI/CD
• Mentor engineers and lead a small agile team

Required qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field
• 10+ years of software development experience
• 5+ years in a leadership role
• Proven experience in architecting and directing large-scale software projects
• Strong proficiency in C++, Python, or Java
• Strong record of implementing and advocating for engineering best practices such as code reviews, testing, and continuous integration
• Experience in leading diverse engineering teams
• Excellent strategic thinking skills
• Proven ability to mentor and develop engineering talent
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills

Nice to have

• Ph.D. in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field
• Experience in leading the development of laboratory automation systems or scientific instrumentation
• Experience with organizational change management and fostering innovation in large technical programs
• Track record of successful project delivery in agile environments
• Published work or presentations in software engineering and leadership in simulation or automation systems

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Employer-paid life and disability insurance
• Flexible time off with generous company wide holidays
• Paid parental leave
• Educational assistance program
• Commuter benefits, including bike share memberships for office based employees
• Company subsidized lunch program

About the company

Lila Sciences is building Scientific Superintelligence™ to solve humankind's greatest challenges. The company combines advanced AI models with proprietary AI Science Factory™ instruments into an operating system for science.