Engineer I, Research Operations, (1st shift)

The role

The Engineer I will support mammalian cell-based workflows including electroporation, lipid nanoparticle dosing, and chemical transfection. This role combines hands-on cell culture with laboratory automation to deliver materials for downstream applications.

What you will do

• Execute high-throughput automated and manual workflows.
• Maintain and passage mammalian cell lines and primary cells using aseptic technique.
• Prepare workflow materials and operate automated liquid handlers and specialized instruments.
• Perform downstream characterization using flow cytometry, plate reader-based assays, or imaging-based methods.
• Monitor cell health, workflow performance, and quality-control results.
• Troubleshoot issues and escalate as needed.
• Maintain traceable records and provide clear handoffs.
• Partner with scientists and engineers to improve standard operating procedures and workflows.

Required qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Bioengineering, or a related scientific or engineering field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant laboratory
• Minimum 3 years of relevant Co-Op and industry laboratory experience.
• Hands-on mammalian cell culture experience, including aseptic technique, routine maintenance, passaging, cell counting, and viability assessment.
• Experience with mammalian cell transfection methods, including chemical transfection, electroporation, or related delivery technologies.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow SOPs and technical instructions.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, high-throughput laboratory environment.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work on-site during first shift.

Nice to have

• Experience operating electroporation platforms, such as the Lonza Nucleofector or similar systems.
• Experience with LNP dosing or LNP-mediated delivery to mammalian cells.
• Experience handling primary human cells, such as PBMCs, T cells, or stem cells.
• Hands-on experience with flow cytometry.
• Experience with plate reader-based or imaging-based cellular assays.
• Experience operating automated liquid handlers and associated software.
• Experience working in a high-throughput screening or production-oriented laboratory environment.

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
• Company subsidized lunch program

About the company

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