Associate / Engineer I, ResOps, Formulations and Characterization

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Associate Engineer to join our high-throughput Research Operations team. In this role, you will focus on hands on material formulation preparation using characterization techniques relevant to rheology and mechanical properties

You will gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art automation technologies while contributing directly to projects that drive our company’s growth.

This is an excellent opportunity for candidates excited to learn engineering principles, work with advanced laboratory automation, and develop a strong foundation in scientific operations in a dynamic, shift-based environment.

• Perform wet-lab materials synthesis and formulation of materials including coatings, solutions, and elastic materials
• Prepare reagents, solutions/electrolytes, samples, and consumables to ensure seamless continuation of experiments across shifts
• Conduct rheology of formulations, and mechanical testing such as tensile, peel, and shear tests
• Follow detailed standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure accuracy, reproducibility, and throughput
• Monitor workflow performance, troubleshoot common issues, and escalate when necessary to ensure continuity between shifts
• Record, organize, and maintain experimental data with high attention to detail
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and streamline processes across shift operations
• Flag unusual features or results for scientist review
• Collaborate with scientists and engineers to support diverse projects across life sciences and physical sciences

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Physics, Chemical/Materials Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent laboratory experience)
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills
• >1 year of experience with bench top and wet lab environments in an industrial setting with high throughout performing: pipetting, chemical handling, solution and sample preparation
• Hands-on experience synthesizing and testing materials such as coatings, solutions, adhesives, paints, and elastic materials
• Experience working and disposing of acids and bases, synthesis in fume hoods, and handling powders
• Curiosity to learn new skills and techniques relevant to materials science

• Additional familiarity with: mechanical testing (e.g., tensile and peel tests), rheology, polymer-based systems
• Experience working in high-throughput production environments with a focus on scalability, efficiency, and accuracy
• Basic engineering skills for troubleshooting synthesis tools such as centrifuges, pipettes, ovens, chemical handlers, glove box, and pumps
• Familiarity with automated workflows and techniques to operate and generate custom scripts
• Experience with characterization methods for analyzing morphology and chemical compositions

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.

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