Associate Robotic Automation Engineer
Manchester, UK | Lab Automation Engineering | Full-Time | Up to 40% Travel
POSITION OVERVIEW
HighRes is seeking an Associate Robotic Automation Engineer in Manchester, UK to join our Lab Automation engineering team. This role combines technical expertise with exceptional customer service to deliver seamless laboratory automation solutions. Reporting to the Automation Engineering Manager, European Operations, you will configure, deploy, and support robotic systems while serving as a trusted advisor to our life sciences clients across Europe and beyond.
This is an exciting opportunity for a technically curious professional who thrives at the intersection of robotics, software, and customer success. You will work cross-functionally with internal teams and directly with clients to ensure our automation platforms exceed expectations from initial deployment through ongoing support. The ideal candidate is someone who can grow with the company and take on additional responsibilities over time.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Technical Delivery:
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Configure and deploy laboratory automation solutions, including robotic arms, scheduling software, and integrated devices
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Execute Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT)
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Troubleshoot field issues in collaboration with engineering, software, and support teams
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Configure relational databases for laboratory scheduling applications
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Maintain deployment documentation and drive process improvements
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Diagnose and resolve technical challenges in deployed systems
Customer Success:
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Serve as the professional face of HighRes during on-site client engagements
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Deliver comprehensive training on robotic systems ranging from single arms to room-scale platforms
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Build trusted client relationships by understanding workflows and anticipating needs
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Translate technical concepts into clear language for diverse audiences
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Maintain responsive, professional communication throughout the customer journey
You will learn extensively through collaboration with teammates and hands-on field experience. Your success will be greatly enhanced by the following qualifications:
Required:
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Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline (Computer Science, Robotics, Engineering, or related field)
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Genuine passion for automation and robotics technology
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Interest and ability in software development
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Basic proficiency in C# or other object-oriented programming languages
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Professional demeanor and ability to represent the company with clients
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Exceptional written and verbal communication skills across diverse audiences
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Ability to travel up to and sometimes exceeding 40% annually at client locations across Europe and internationally, including the United States
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Current driver's licence and valid passport
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Personal transportation for regional travel
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Right to work in the United Kingdom
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Comfortable working in laboratory and technical environments
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Capable of standing for extended periods
Preferred:
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Experience in customer-facing technical roles (deployment engineering, technical support, field service)
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Background in customer service, hospitality, or client success
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Understanding of robotic arm technologies and laboratory automation software
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Familiarity with networking protocols (TCP/IP) and serial communications
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Basic mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills
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Experience documenting software issues and technical logs
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Strong organisational and time management abilities
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Adaptability to fluctuating workloads and evolving customer expectations
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Problem-solving mindset with attention to detail
The ideal candidate brings technical curiosity combined with a genuine desire to help customers succeed. You approach every client interaction with a hospitality mindset, treating each engagement as an opportunity to exceed expectations and build lasting relationships. Your learning agility allows you to quickly master new technologies and processes, while your communication excellence builds confidence and trust with clients at all levels. You balance independence and collaboration effectively, working autonomously on your projects while staying connected to the business as we continue to grow and innovate. Above all, your professionalism and customer-first attitude make clients excited to work with HighRes and confident in the solutions we deliver.
This is more than an entry-level engineering role. It is an opportunity to make a real impact on human health through life science robotics. You will work with cutting-edge automation technology, build lasting relationships with industry-leading clients across Europe and beyond, and develop expertise that positions you for long-term career growth in the rapidly expanding field of laboratory automation. Based at our European headquarters in Manchester, you will be part of a global team that is serious about quality, growth, and doing work that matters.
