Lab Automation Specialist

Company: Cogent Scientific
Location: San Diego
Posted on: February 18, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Salary: $95K-$105K, depending upon experience Cogent Scientific, an insourced contract research organization, is looking for the right people to accomplish our Mission: to build lasting partnerships that enable the life sciences industry to accelerate discovery and innovation in research and manufacturing. We can offer you the chance to build on your skills and knowledge while working among experts in their fields and with cutting-edge instrumentation. Cogent Scientific offers competitive pay (with relocation bonus as needed), attractive benefits (such as medical/dental/vision insurance; 401(k); parental leave; PTO and paid holidays; etc.) and an exciting work environment.We aim to recruit the best people who stand out among their peers and embody our Core Values: C lient Focused: We only succeed when our clients succeed. O utstanding: We deliver meticulous results through outstanding performance. G ood: We act ethically and morally. E mployee-Centric: We honor and support our employees. N imble: We are prepared to adapt in an ever-changing industry. T eam-Oriented: We collaborate with each other and with our clients. We currently have a role available for a Lab Automation Specialist. Job duties include, but are not limited to: Working with scientists to determine requirements for applications they need, then developing software to fulfill these requirements. Enabling seamless integration between laboratory instruments, LIMS systems, Electronic Notebooks, and informatics platforms for real-time data capture and reporting. Analyzing laboratory processes and implementing automation strategies to reduce manual steps, improve throughput, and minimize errors. Developing and configuring automated workflows for sample preparation, liquid handling, and analytical instrumentation. Ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations and implementing robust security measures for sensitive information. Job requirements include, but are not limited to: BS degree in Informatics, Computer Science, Data Science, or related field with 3-5 years of experience or MS degree with 1-3 years of experience. Laboratory knowledge (Chemistry, Biochemistry, etc.) strongly preferred. Strong understanding of robotics programming, scripting languages (Python, VB, or similar), and API integration. Proficiency in Python or R for data manipulation and other programming languages Proven experience with SQL, NoSQL, and database management systems (e.g., Oracle, MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB). Hands-on experience with laboratory automation platforms (e.g., Tecan, Hamilton, Beckman Coulter) preferred. Familiarity with LIMS, ELN, and data integration tools helpful. Excellent communication skills verbal and written. Works well both as a team and as an individual. Demonstration of excellent team player skills, very strong attention to detail, very strong problem-solving skills, a high level of learning agility, and the ability to work across functions. The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic and self-motivated, with the leadership and communication skills necessary to operate effectively in a fast-paced multidisciplinary environment with flexibility and an adaptable approach to goal delivery. This job posting will close by 4/1/2026 or when a candidate is identified, whichever comes first.

Keywords: Cogent Scientific, Vista , Lab Automation Specialist, Science, Research & Development , San Diego, California