Overview
About 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 applying AI to every aspect of the scientific method, solving humankind's challenges in health, climate, and sustainability at a pace and scale never experienced before. Learn more at www.lila.ai.
At Lila, we value cross-functional collaboration and inclusive teamwork. We seek individuals with an inclusive mindset and a diversity of thought. Our teams thrive in unstructured, creative environments where every voice is heard because experience comes in many forms and passion goes a long way. If this sounds like an environment you'd love to work in, please apply even if you have only some of the listed experience.
Your Impact at Lila
Lila Sciences is seeking a Senior Mechatronics Engineer to join our Hardware & Controls Engineering team. You will design and engineer components for bench-scale robotics, mechanical systems, and automation, collaborating with experimental scientists, AI / ML scientists, and software / controls engineers across life science and physical science applications. This role offers hands-on experience in CAD design, analysis, prototyping, programming, assembly, and testing.
What You'll Be Building
- Rapidly design, iterate, and assemble proof-of-concept and demo electromechanical systems for novel lab automation solutions in both life science and physical science domains.
- Integrate third-party APIs into existing systems to enhance functionality and streamline operations.
- Develop custom drivers for integrating specific equipment into the automation ecosystem.
- Utilize Python scripting to automate tasks and improve system functionalities.
- Handle JSON payloads for data exchange between systems and external applications.
- Design and implement intuitive HMIs, focusing on user-friendly interfaces and efficient operation.
- Collaborate with mechanical, robotic, and scientific teams to ensure rapid, functional integration of mechanical designs under tight timelines.
- Drive automation of manual research processes with a focus on scalability, reliability, and safety.
- Select instruments and controllers based on a practical understanding of component sourcing and rapid procurement.
- Work with external partners and shops to facilitate fast-turnaround fabrication and prototype assembly.
What You'll Need To Succeed
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Robotics Engineering, or a closely related field.4-8 years of industry experience (title / level commensurate with expertise), with hands-on R&D, prototyping, advanced development, or rapid hardware innovation.Advanced proficiency in a variety of programming languages and ability to work with SQL databases.Strong electro-mechanical prototyping and hands-on build skills : wiring, soldering, hand tools, benchtop testing, and troubleshooting.Experience with microcontroller-based systems (e.g., Arduino, Raspberry Pi, PLCs) including programming and integrating sensors, actuators, and motors.Familiarity with pneumatic, fluidic, and thermal system design in an R&D context.Resourceful "builder" and creative problem-solver able to work effectively with incomplete requirements, ambiguous goals, and evolving project constraints.Ability to rapidly learn new tools, experiment with novel approaches, and deliver working systems under demanding timelines.Excellent collaboration and communication skills, with a willingness to work side-by-side with cross-functional teams.High attention to detail and commitment to safety—even in rapid, iterative environments.Ability to distill complex requirements from cross-functional teams to deliver MVP solutions for high-throughput science.Bonus Points For
Experience in fast-paced or startup R&D environments, especially moving from concept to working prototype.Advanced skills in integrating hardware with electronics and software (Arduino, Raspberry Pi, simple PLCs, or automation controllers) for proof-of-concept.Experience specifying, sourcing, and adapting commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) automation components.Knowledge of robotics programming and automation frameworks.Familiarity with experimental setups, test & measurement protocols, and rapid documentation tools (e.g., digital wikis, Kanban).Experience in the integration of IoT devices within industrial and laboratory settings.Working at Lila
You would have access to advanced technology in areas such as AI experimental design and simulation, automated custom instrumentation, and generative molecular and material design.
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 Sciences' 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.
Seniority level
Mid-Senior levelEmployment type
Full-timeJob function
Engineering and Information TechnologyIndustries : Technology, Information and InternetJ-18808-Ljbffr