# Principal Software Engineer, Instrument Simulations at Lila Sciences > United States · Principal · Software engineering · open. Source: https://alderhq.app/jobs/greenhouse%3Alilasciences%3A4186530009 (read 2026-11-07). ## Facts (observed) - Company: [Lila Sciences](https://alderhq.app/companies/lila-sciences) - Location text: Cambridge, MA USA; Alewife, Cambridge, MA - Where it can be done from (inferred): United States (evidence: "Location: Cambridge, MA USA; Alewife, Cambridge, MA") - Posted: 2026-03-20 (232 days ago) - First seen by alder: 2026-11-02 · last verified: 2026-11-04 - Reposted: 0 times · edited: 0 times - Apply on the employer's site: https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/lilasciences/jobs/4186530009 - Skills listed (inferred): Python, Java, C++ ## Pay and sponsorship - Posted pay: $204k–$272k per year (from the listing's pay field) - Market band for similar posted roles (Boston, n 34): p25 $197k, median $232k, p75 $273k - H-1B filings at this company for similar roles, FY26: 5, median offered wage $115k ([US DOL OFLC LCA disclosure data](https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/foreign-labor/performance)) ## Description (the employer's text) ### Your Impact at LILA 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 ### What You’ll Need to Succeed - 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. ### Compensation We offer competitive base compensation with bonus potential and generous early-stage equity. Your final offer will reflect your background, expertise, and expected impact. U.S. Benefits. Full-time U.S. employees receive a comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, and vision coverage; employer-paid life and disability insurance; flexible time off with generous company wide holidays; paid parental leave; an educational assistance program; commuter benefits, including bike share memberships for office based employees; and a company subsidized lunch program. International Benefits. Full-time employees outside the U.S. receive a comprehensive benefits program tailored to their region. USD salary ranges apply only to U.S.-based positions; international salaries are set to local market. Expected Base Salary Range $204,000—$272,000 USD ### About LILA Lila Sciences is building Scientific Superintelligence™ to solve humankind's greatest challenges. We believe science is the most inspiring frontier for AI. Rather than hard-coding expert knowledge into tools, LILA builds systems that can learn for themselves. --- Data: alder (https://alderhq.app). Cite https://alderhq.app/jobs/greenhouse%3Alilasciences%3A4186530009 and the date you read it. Observed facts come from the employer's own listing; location reach, level, family and skills are inferences.