Automation Leader

  • PerkinElmer
  • Stevenage, Hertfordshire
  • 13/06/2026
Full time Information Technology Telecommunications

Job Description

Overview

When joining PerkinElmer, you select an experienced and trusted leader in scientific solutions with a global service network and distribution centers. Our mission is to advance science and innovate for a healthier world, partnering with commercial, government, academic and healthcare customers to deliver analytical solutions and OneSource services.

Job Title and Location

Automation Leader - Stevenage (UK) on customer site

Responsibilities
  • Managerial Duties: supervise and contribute to the team in delivering high-quality automation service support; oversee the work, training, development and safety of all reporting staff; address operational and performance issues; escalate to line manager as appropriate.
  • Assist in recruitment, induction and training; routine performance management; ensure procedures comply with safety regulations; assist in generating SOPs, work instructions, local method statements and risk assessments as needed; ensure adherence to quality, skill and safety requirements.
  • Promote PerkinElmer core values and act as an ambassador for TLS; escalate business development opportunities to line manager.
  • Ensure timely and accurate reporting of data including performance metrics.
  • Operational Duties: act as first-responder for critical equipment breakdowns to minimize impact on scientific activity.
  • Perform ongoing system performance analysis from error logs, live run interventions, root-cause analysis and trend errors to mitigate recurrence.
  • Provide technical mediation for long-running equipment issues involving multiple vendors.
  • Develop training packages for automation platforms for LIS Engineers and client staff; develop and implement a proactive maintenance regime for key equipment.
  • Oversee and participate in equipment support activities; train scientists in best practice for automated equipment use; ensure health and safety, security, environmental and operational compliance.
  • Engage with scientific teams, present data, and identify opportunities for innovation; discuss service improvements with the team leader and customers; share best practices with other groups.
  • Track assay performance metrics; communicate issues and suggest improvements to current assay methods and evaluate new technologies where applicable.
  • Work independently and flexibly to support team priorities and meet realistic schedules.
Qualifications
  • Basic Qualifications: BSc or equivalent in a relevant subject (e.g., Engineering, Technical or Scientific) with relevant laboratory experience; demonstrated experience leading teams, delivering training, or coaching staff; 2 years of demonstrated technical experience with automated laboratory activities; knowledge of good laboratory safety practices.
  • Preferred Qualifications: Masters or Doctorate in a relevant subject; solid understanding of core competencies in liquid handling and integrated automation platforms; experience writing protocols using software such as Cellario, Evoware, Fluent Control, Momentum, VWorks or equivalent; experience in a Pharmaceutical, Biotech, CRO or scientific laboratory environment; experience in a regulated environment; experience developing and optimizing complex protocols on liquid handling automation.