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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Principal Software Engineer, Instrument Simulations to architect - **Company:** Lila Sciences, Inc. - **Location:** Cambridge, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $204,000.0 - $270,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Java (Programming Language), Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), Artificial Intelligence, C++ (Programming Language), Code Review, Continuous Integration, Monitoring of Systems, Python (Programming Language), Robotic Automation Software, Software Engineering, Systems Integration, Information Technology - **Published:** September 4, 2026 - **Apply:** https://startup.jobs/principal-software-engineer-instrument-simulations-lila-sciences-7879364 ## About the Role * Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field: Background that supports technical and leadership capabilities. * 10+ years of software development experience, including 5+ years in a leadership role: Demonstrates ability to lead and manage complex projects and engineering teams. * Proven experience in architecting and directing large-scale software projects: Skilled in designing and leading the development of scalable, reliable, and maintainable systems. * Strong proficiency in programming languages such as C++, Python, or Java: Capable of setting technical standards and guiding development practices. * Strong record of implementing and advocating for engineering best practices such as code reviews, testing, and continuous integration. * Experience in leading diverse engineering teams with a focus on collaboration, innovation, and efficiency. * Excellent strategic thinking skills, with the ability to understand and align team efforts with organizational goals. * Proven ability to mentor and develop engineering talent, fostering an environment of growth and continuous learning. * Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills: Effectively engage with stakeholders at all levels, from developers to senior executives. Bonus Points For * Ph.D. in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field * Experience in leading the development of laboratory automation systems or scientific instrumentation * Experience with organizational change management and fostering innovation in large technical programs. * Track record of successful project delivery in agile environments, optimizing team workflows and balancing priorities. * Published work or presentations that highlight contributions to the field of software engineering and leadership in simulation or automation systems. ## Description Lila Sciences is seeking a Principal Software Engineer, Instrument Simulations to architect and lead the development of our next-generation laboratory automation platform. In this role, you'll be responsible for designing the simulation infrastructure and integration layer that connects AI-driven experimental design with physical robotic systems, enabling closed-loop scientific discovery at unprecedented scale. What You'll Be Building * Architect and implement high-fidelity simulation environments that model complex laboratory instrumentation, fluidics, and robotic workflows * Design robust integration patterns between heterogeneous hardware systems, ensuring reliable and safe execution of fully automated experiments * Lead the development of APIs and interfaces that enable scientists and AI agents to seamlessly interact with sophisticated automation infrastructure * Maintain and help establish best practices for hardware-software integration, system monitoring, and CI/CD in laboratory automation contexts for all newly developed systems * Mentor engineers, likely leading a small agile team ## Related Videos - [The Software Engineer 2030: From Coder To AI Orchestrator? - Patrick Schnell](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1825-the-software-engineer-2030-from-coder-to-ai-orchestrator-patrick-schnell) - [The Avengers Initiative (Practical Ethics for Software Engineers)](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/2070-the-avengers-initiative-practical-ethics-for-software-engineers) - [Are Code Reviews Worth It? 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