Head of Automation

Elegen is blazing a path towards a biology-based economy with a highly innovative approach to DNA synthesis that delivers an industry leading length of 7kb in 7 business days with a 99.999% per base accuracy. Our multidisciplinary team of best-in-class biologists, chemists, hardware, and software engineers apply cutting-edge technologies and methods to solve critical bottlenecks in synthetic biology workflows to help our customers in pharma, biotech, agbio, and biomanufacturing streamline their work and realize the full potential of programmable biology.

We are seeking an experienced Head of Automation to own the strategy, architecture, and execution of laboratory and manufacturing automation across our DNA synthesis platform. This leadership role will build and grow a high-performing automation team, set the multi-year technology roadmap, and be the driving force behind scaling our automation systems from R&D into full production.

This is a rare and exciting opportunity for an automation leader looking to shape the automation function at a uniquely innovative and high-impact start-up. In addition to setting the strategic direction for our current and next-generation automation platforms, you will build the team, processes, and culture needed to scale lab automation into a world-class manufacturing operation, working alongside some of Silicon Valley's best scientists and engineers.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Lead the design, build, qualification, and deployment of integrated robotic work cells and standalone automation systems across R&D and Production.
• Build, lead, and mentor a team of automation engineers and scientists; own hiring, performance management, and career development for the function.
• Own the automation capital and operating budget; manage vendor relationships and lead contract negotiations for liquid handlers, robotics, schedulers, and integration partners.
• Partner with R&D, Process Development, Hardware and Software Engineering, and Manufacturing leadership to translate new products and processes from bench to full-scale automated production.
• Define and own the automation strategy and multi-year roadmap, translating business and production goals into system architecture, staffing plans, and capital investment priorities.
• Establish and govern automation standards across the site, including SOPs, documentation, change control, and validation protocols.
• Lead root-cause investigations and continuous-improvement programs across automated workflows, ensuring uptime, throughput, and quality targets are met.
• Champion a strong culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement within the automation organization.

Essential Candidate Profile:

• Bachelor's degree in life sciences, engineering, or a closely related field.
• Deep hands-on background with automation platforms such as Hamilton, Tecan, Agilent Bravo, and Labcyte Echo, with the credibility to guide technical teams and make system architecture decisions.
• Direct, hands-on experience developing automated systems or instruments that were ultimately deployed to and operated at external customer or field sites, with a demonstrated focus on reliability, usability, and serviceability for non-R&D end users
• Strong software and programming background (Python, C#, or similar), with experience directing the selection and implementation of scheduling and orchestration systems (e.g., Momentum, Overlord, Green Button Go).
• Experience implementing NGS or molecular biology workflows in a manufacturing or research environment.
• 5+ years of experience in laboratory or manufacturing automation. 2+ years of direct people leadership within biotech, pharma, diagnostics, or a similar environment is preferred.
• Demonstrated track record of taking a platform from R&D through to commercial manufacturing in a high-growth or start-up environment.
• Excellent cross-functional leadership and communication skills, with the ability to operate at both strategic and hands-on levels and to influence senior stakeholders.

Preferred Candidate Qualifications:

• Previous startup experience, particularly scaling an automation function from early-stage R&D into commercial-scale manufacturing.
• Track record of building and structuring an automation team and organization from the ground up.
• Working knowledge of DNA synthesis and purification strategies.
• Experience with Confluence, JIRA, or similar systems for cross-functional program management.

About The Company:

Founded and led by Dr. Matthew Hill and located in San Carlos, CA, Elegen is well-capitalized by top life science investors, including Andreessen Horowitz, 8VC, and KdT. The company is advised and staffed by leading biotechnology scientists and entrepreneurs, including Dr. Marc Unger, inventor of the Nanoflex™ valve, and former CSO of Fluidigm. Dr. Hill has a PhD from Stanford and a proven track record of advancing innovative technologies from invention to commercial success. Over eight years in his previous role as VP of R&D at a leading molecular diagnostics company, he co-invented and launched five precision molecular diagnostic products, including a best-in-class noninvasive prenatal test used by millions. These products earn more than $350 million per year in revenue and enabled an IPO.

Elegen is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Elegen provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic characteristics, or any other category protected by law.  All applicants have rights under the following Federal Employment Laws: 

• Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) 
• Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) 
• Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA)