Job Title: Analytical and Laboratory Instrumentation Engineer

Job Summary:

The Senior Analytical and Laboratory Instrumentation Engineer is responsible for leading the design, optimization, calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of complex analytical and laboratory instrumentation systems. This role involves overseeing critical laboratory equipment such as chromatographs, spectrometers, analyzers, and other high-precision instruments used for scientific analysis and quality control. The Senior Engineer will ensure that these systems are functioning at their highest potential, meeting compliance and regulatory standards, and contributing to the overall success of laboratory operations. This position involves project leadership, mentoring junior engineers, and driving continuous improvement in laboratory systems and processes.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Leadership in System Design and Optimization:

   • Lead the design and optimization of analytical instrumentation systems, ensuring they meet laboratory and research requirements for accuracy, precision, and efficiency.
   • Oversee the integration of new and existing analytical equipment, working with cross-functional teams to ensure that the systems are seamlessly incorporated into laboratory workflows.
   • Identify opportunities for process improvements and optimization, ensuring that systems operate at peak performance while maintaining compliance with regulatory standards.

2. Calibration, Maintenance, and Troubleshooting:

   • Lead the calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting efforts for a range of analytical instruments, including chromatographs, mass spectrometers, spectrophotometers, and other complex laboratory equipment.
   • Ensure that all instruments are calibrated and maintained according to industry standards and company procedures, minimizing downtime and maximizing system uptime.
   • Provide expert troubleshooting support for complex instrumentation issues, addressing problems quickly to prevent disruptions to laboratory operations.

3. Compliance, Regulatory Standards, and Safety:

   • Ensure that all laboratory instrumentation and processes are in full compliance with applicable regulatory standards such as ISO 9001, GMP, GLP, FDA, and EPA regulations.
   • Conduct audits, inspections, and reviews of laboratory instrumentation and data to ensure compliance with industry standards and internal quality control procedures.
   • Develop and enforce laboratory safety standards for the operation, handling, and maintenance of laboratory instrumentation, ensuring that all team members adhere to safety protocols.

4. Data Management and Analysis:

   • Oversee data collection and analysis from laboratory instruments, ensuring that the data meets quality assurance standards and is usable for reporting and research purposes.
   • Ensure proper documentation of all calibration, maintenance, and repair activities for auditing purposes, as well as generating comprehensive performance reports for management.
   • Lead efforts to implement advanced data analytics tools and methodologies to analyze large datasets and improve decision-making related to laboratory instrumentation.

5. Project Management and Innovation:

   • Manage projects related to laboratory instrumentation, ensuring timely and cost-effective completion of system installations, upgrades, and optimizations.
   • Lead initiatives for continuous improvement, incorporating new technologies, instrumentation, and methods to enhance laboratory efficiency and data accuracy.
   • Stay up-to-date on emerging technologies in analytical instrumentation, recommending the adoption of new tools and techniques that could improve laboratory operations.

6. Mentoring and Training:

   • Provide guidance, training, and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians, ensuring they have the necessary skills and knowledge to support laboratory instrumentation operations effectively.
   • Develop and conduct training programs on laboratory instrumentation systems, calibration methods, and troubleshooting techniques.
   • Foster a culture of learning, encouraging team members to continuously develop their technical skills and stay informed about new trends and innovations in analytical instrumentation.

7. Cross-Functional Collaboration:

   • Collaborate with other departments, such as quality assurance, R&D, and production teams, to ensure that laboratory instrumentation aligns with broader organizational goals.
   • Work closely with vendors and suppliers to manage procurement and ensure that instruments meet the laboratory’s technical specifications.
   • Provide technical expertise and recommendations for new laboratory projects, ensuring that instrumentation systems align with the organization’s needs and goals.

8. Documentation and Reporting:

   • Ensure that all calibration, maintenance, troubleshooting, and performance data is documented in compliance with regulatory and internal quality standards.
   • Prepare and present detailed reports on instrumentation performance, system upgrades, and compliance audits for senior management and regulatory bodies.
   • Maintain comprehensive records of all laboratory instrument configurations, ensuring traceability and compliance with standards.

Skills and Knowledge Required:

• Expertise in a wide range of laboratory instrumentation, including chromatographs, mass spectrometers, UV-Vis spectrophotometers, and other analytical devices.
• In-depth knowledge of calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting techniques for laboratory instrumentation.
• Strong understanding of regulatory standards (e.g., ISO 9001, GMP, FDA, EPA) and compliance requirements in laboratory settings.
• Proficient in data analysis, statistical tools, and software for managing instrument outputs (e.g., Minitab, Excel, LIMS).
• Ability to lead projects, manage timelines, resources, and budgets effectively.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to address complex technical issues and provide innovative solutions.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills for mentoring staff, interacting with stakeholders, and presenting reports.

Educational Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Instrumentation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Professional certifications related to analytical instrumentation, laboratory practices, or regulatory compliance (e.g., Six Sigma, ISO 9001, GMP) are highly desirable.

Experience:

• 7+ years of experience in laboratory instrumentation, analytical systems, or related fields, with at least 3 years in a senior or leadership role.
• Proven experience in troubleshooting, calibration, and optimization of laboratory instrumentation.
• Experience in managing complex laboratory projects, including system upgrades, installations, and performance optimizations.
• Strong background in regulatory compliance, data management, and quality assurance for laboratory instrumentation.

Tools and Technologies:

• Proficiency in laboratory instruments such as gas chromatographs, mass spectrometers, and spectrophotometers.
• Expertise in data analysis software (e.g., Minitab, Excel, Power BI, LIMS).
• Experience with SCADA systems, PLC programming, and control systems used in laboratory instrumentation is a plus.

Other Requirements:

• Strong leadership, organizational, and project management skills to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment, managing both technical tasks and people effectively.
• Willingness to travel to laboratory sites or partner locations as needed for system implementation or troubleshooting.
• A commitment to safety, compliance, and operational excellence.