Drive automation in a cutting-edge bioprocess environment
As an Automation Engineer, you'll play a central role in advancing the capabilities of our proprietary control platform, enabling seamless, autonomous factory operations. You'll work hands-on across software, hardware, and process systems to improve reliability, close gaps, and increase the level of automation across production workflows.
What You’ll Do
- Iterate on live automation systems by diagnosing fragile components, refining control logic, and implementing robust improvements in collaboration with engineering teams.
- Leverage AI tools like Claude to interpret Python code, analyze Grafana dashboards, optimize PID control loops, configure alerts, and support operator training.
- Identify manual process steps and lead efforts to automate them through control logic, new hardware integrations, or experimental solutions.
- Design and execute automation solutions for complex unit operations, such as post-centrifugation purification systems, from concept through implementation.
- Integrate sensors, valves, pumps, and IO modules into control systems, ensuring reliable communication across industrial protocols.
- Debug and enhance low-level communication interfaces including Modbus, OPC-UA, MQTT, IO-Link, and EtherNet/IP.
- Collaborate with mechanical, software, and process engineers to align hardware and software changes and deliver cohesive system upgrades.
- Translate process requirements into technical automation specifications, balancing scope, timing, and impact across teams.
- Contribute directly to the evolution of the Vow Process Control platform, shaping its roadmap based on operational insights.
- Improve DevOps practices and tooling to increase team velocity and system maintainability.
- Manage competing priorities from production, operations, and development teams, ensuring focus on highest-impact initiatives.
- Communicate trade-offs clearly, set realistic expectations, and keep stakeholders informed of progress and timelines.
What We’re Looking For
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Systems, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or equivalent experience.
- Proven experience deploying and supporting automation systems in live environments—from concept through production and ongoing support.
- Working knowledge of at least one modern programming language such as Python, C++, or JavaScript/TypeScript.
- Ability to navigate unfamiliar codebases using AI-assisted development and debugging tools.
- Solid grasp of mechanical and electrical principles relevant to automated systems.
- Proactive communicator who brings solutions, takes initiative, and drives progress without constant oversight.
- Skilled at delivering work at the appropriate maturity level, adapting to shifting priorities while maintaining focus on impact.
Nice to Have
- Hands-on experience integrating hardware with electrical control systems.
- Familiarity with industrial communication protocols such as Modbus, OPC-UA, MQTT, IO-Link, or EtherNet/IP.
- Ability to quickly learn and apply new systems and protocols in fast-moving environments.
Technology Environment
- Python, C++, JavaScript, TypeScript
- Modbus, OPC-UA, MQTT, IO-Link, EtherNet/IP
- Grafana for monitoring and visualization
- AI-assisted development tools (e.g., Claude)
- Vow Process Control (VPC) platform
- PID control systems
- DevOps tooling
Work Environment
This is an onsite role based in Alexandria, with a high-trust culture that supports occasional remote work for focused tasks. Team members typically spend around four days per week on site to enable close collaboration.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Equity participation — every team member is an owner
- 16 weeks paid parental leave (8 weeks for caregivers, 8 for birth givers)
- Unlimited personal leave
- Relocation support available for interstate or international hires
Culture & Values
- Pragmatic, results-driven delivery
- Iterative improvement over perfection
- Strong cross-functional collaboration
- AI-first development approach
- Fast iteration cycles across software, hardware, and biology
- Face-to-face communication as the default
- Solution-oriented mindset
- Relentless focus on high-impact work
