Robotics Operations Engineer I, First Shift
About this role
Monitoring robot behavior during live production runs, intervening safely to pause or reset units, and performing hands-on troubleshooting form the core of daily operations for this role. Operating within a lab production environment, the team maintains and scales a growing fleet of robots that support autonomous scientific discovery instruments. Engineers collaborate closely with software and hardware developers by translating field observations into actionable priorities and documenting incidents thoroughly.
Lila Sciences builds Scientific Superintelligence by combining advanced AI models with proprietary instruments to execute the entire scientific method autonomously. The operations team plays a front-line technical role in ensuring safe, reliable fleet uptime as operating hours expand. Candidates who combine practical robotics experience with strong mechanical troubleshooting skills and clear written communication will thrive in this environment.
What you will do
- Monitor live robot behavior during production operations and intervene safely to pause, stop, or reset units when necessary.
- Document logs, sensor output, video, and reproduction steps to escalate incidents to engineering teams.
- Perform minor robot maintenance tasks including cabling, sensor swaps, fasteners, and basic component replacements.
- Execute robot swap procedures, validate spare units, and return equipment to production readiness.
- Maintain accurate records regarding robot health, maintenance actions, and overall fleet status.
- Translate field observations into clear priorities for software and hardware fixes.
- Identify recurring failure patterns and recommend improvements to reduce downtime.
What you need
- Hands-on experience working with robotic systems through employment, technical programs, internships, or academic robotics teams.
- A solid grasp of core robotics concepts such as kinematics, sensors, actuators, and control systems.
- Working experience with ROS2 including nodes, topics, launch files, and debugging or introspection tools.
- Comfort with basic mechanical and electrical troubleshooting involving cabling, connectors, sensors, and fasteners.
- Strong observational skills and sound judgment for making quick, safe decisions during live operations.
- Clear written communication abilities for documenting issues and reporting them to engineering teams.
- The flexibility to begin on a standard 9am-5pm schedule and transition to first shift coverage from 6am-2pm as operating hours expand.
Nice to have
- Experience supporting robots or automated systems through a production rollout or pilot phase.
- Familiarity with Nav2, Behavior Trees, or related robotics tooling.
- Scripting experience with Python or similar tools for log review, data collection, or simple automation.
- Experience with fleet management, monitoring dashboards, telemetry tools, or issue-tracking systems.
- Background in mechanical, electrical, robotics, or mechatronics engineering through a degree, technical program, or equivalent hands-on experience.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Employer-paid life and disability insurance
- Flexible time off with generous company-wide holidays
- Paid parental leave
- Educational assistance program
- Commuter benefits including bike share memberships and a company-subsidized lunch program
Skills and tech stack
Questions candidates ask
What is the remote policy and location for this job?
The role is based in a lab production environment in Cambridge, MA. It is an on-site position.
What are the working hours for this shift?
The role begins on a standard 9am-5pm schedule and transitions to first shift coverage, 6am-2pm, as fleet operating hours expand.
What is the salary range for this position?
The expected base salary range is $75,600 to $109,200 USD, with final offers reflecting background, expertise, and expected impact.
What additional compensation is provided beyond base salary?
The company offers competitive base compensation with bonus potential and generous early-stage equity.