Robotics Engineer

The Role Joining Moderna offers the opportunity to help advance mRNA medicines by developing, testing, and improving engineering solutions that enable Research teams to explore new scientific questions, prototype new capabilities, and accelerate discovery. This Robotics Engineer role is a hands-on research engineering position for someone with expanded conceptual knowledge in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, mechatronics, automation, robotics, or a related technical discipline.

You will independently support the design, assembly, integration, testing, troubleshooting, and refinement of laboratory instruments, experimental platforms, fixtures, prototypes, and automation-enabled research systems. The role requires sound engineering judgment, ownership of moderately complex technical work, the ability to mentor junior team members, and close collaboration with scientists and engineers to translate research needs into reliable, well-documented technical solutions.

Here’s What You’ll Do Independently support the design, assembly, testing, troubleshooting, and iterative improvement of laboratory instruments, fixtures, prototypes, and automation-enabled research systems. Assist with mechanical, electrical, and mechatronic design work, including component selection, basic drawings, wiring, panel layout, sensor integration, and equipment modifications. Participate in system integration and testing, helping connect instruments, controls, sensors, software, and physical hardware into reliable workflows.

Develop and execute moderately complex experimental test plans, analyze results using sound engineering judgment, document findings, and recommend next steps based on research objectives and system performance. Solve technical problems through analysis of existing solutions, equipment behavior, data, and user feedback, applying practical engineering experience and judgment to select and implement effective solutions.

Provide technical support and guidance for researchers, engineers, and project teams during design, build, commissioning, experimental use, troubleshooting, and iterative improvement activities. Create and maintain clear documentation, including design notes, build records, test data, experimental observations, operating guidance, parts lists, and design change rationale. Identify and implement improvements that increase research system reliability, usability, safety, data quality, experimental flexibility, and team effectiveness.

Work within team guidelines and evolving research engineering practices while broadening understanding of system interactions, related technical disciplines, and user needs. Mentor junior engineers or technical team members by sharing practical knowledge, reviewing work, and supporting development of good engineering and documentation practices. Explain complex technical information in straightforward situations, check for understanding, and collaborate effectively with cross-functional research partners.

Here’s What You’ll Need (Basic Qualifications) B.S. or higher with 2+ years or more of relevant experience in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, mechatronics, robotics, automation, research engineering, or a related technical discipline. Demonstrated hands-on experience building, testing, troubleshooting, improving, or maintaining electromechanical systems, prototypes, equipment, fixtures, or automated hardware with increasing independence.

Working knowledge of electrical and/or mechanical fundamentals such as sensors, actuators, motors, wiring, power distribution, controls, mechanical assemblies, CAD, or fabrication methods. Ability to use technical experience, data, and engineering judgment to solve moderately complex problems, evaluate options, and recommend practical solutions. Strong documentation habits and attention to detail for design notes, test records, experimental observations, build documentation, and operating guidance.

Ability to explain complex tech