(Senior) Lab Automation Engineer

Join a Leading Technology Platform in Catalysis Research

SwissCAT+ East is a national technology platform within the ETH Domain that focuses on propelling catalysis research through innovative, data-driven approaches and automated high-throughput experimentation. The platform is dedicated to providing both academic and industrial researchers with access to cutting-edge robotic infrastructure, advanced data analysis techniques, machine learning tools, and expert technical support.

Operating as an open-access resource, SwissCAT+ East supports research projects from academic and industrial groups across Switzerland and beyond, emphasizing sustainable catalysis and materials development. The mission is to convert scientific inquiries into machine-learning-driven and automated experimental workflows, executing complex experimental campaigns with exceptional reproducibility and throughput.

The platform consistently expands its unique portfolio of robotic and high-throughput systems designed for the synthesis, characterization, and performance evaluation of catalysts under conditions relevant to commercial applications. This infrastructure comprises both commercial automation platforms and custom-designed systems, developed in close collaboration with various academic and industrial partners, extending experimental capabilities beyond existing commercial offerings.

Responsibilities

• Conduct preventive and corrective maintenance of automated laboratory systems, including synthesis robots, high-throughput reactors, and analytical tools.
• Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and software-related issues to ensure high system uptime in a client-oriented environment.
• Oversee the installation, qualification, and commissioning of new automation equipment, modules, and upgrades.
• Develop and optimize experimental workflows to assist scientific and user-driven projects.
• Create custom automation solutions tailored to specific project demands.
• Facilitate system integration and ensure data flow with digital tools, including LIMS, ELN, and data analysis pipelines.
• Provide training and technical support for platform users and laboratory staff.
• Document systems, procedures, maintenance activities, and best practices.
• Coordinate with external vendors and service providers for technical discussions and issue resolution.

This role includes close collaboration with scientists, lab technicians, machine learning engineers, and external partners at the intersection of automation, software, and experimental catalysis. The position is initially offered as a fixed-term contract, with the potential for a transition to a longer-term or permanent role, contingent on project development and mutual agreement.

Qualifications and Skills

• Master’s degree in engineering (e.g., automation, mechanical, electrical, robotics, biomedical, chemical, or related fields) or equivalent practical experience.
• Several years of hands-on experience with laboratory automation, including liquid handling systems, robotic platforms, and automated analytical tools, preferably in a support or system ownership capacity; experience with commercial automation platforms is advantageous.
• Strong troubleshooting skills in mechanical, electrical, and software components.
• Familiarity with automation software, system configuration, and structured troubleshooting methods.
• Experience in a laboratory, R&D, or industrial setting.

Personal Attributes

• Structured, solution-oriented, and reliable work ethic.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams.
• Passion for automation, instrumentation, and technical problem-solving.
• Willingness to take charge of complex systems and support users in daily operations.
• Proficient communication skills in English; knowledge of German is a plus.

What We Offer

• A technically engaging and hands-on engineering role within a unique national research infrastructure.
• Direct responsibility for state-of-the-art laboratory automation and high-throughput robotic systems.
• The opportunity to shape and refine automated experimental workflows alongside scientists and engineers.
• A high degree of autonomy and ownership over complex systems and technical solutions.
• A collaborative, international, and multidisciplinary work environment at ETH Zurich.
• Access to cutting-edge technologies at the frontier of automation, catalysis, and data-driven research.
• Opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement in automation, instrumentation, and digital laboratory technologies.
• Competitive employment conditions and benefits as per ETH Zurich regulations.