Automation Engineer

365 days a year, we aspire to be the best manufacturer of Cell & Gene therapies to ensure our patients have the treatments they need to live longer, healthier lives.

This role is located on-site in Morris Plains, NJ. Novartis is unable to offer relocation support for this role. 

Major accountabilities:

• Develop strategies for data acquisition, systems integration and smart manufacturing solutions (Industry 4.0 and Industrial IoT) to enable next-generation cell therapy operations.
• Identify areas where the implementation of robotic solutions can enhance efficiency by automating manual processes.
• Manage all aspects of the systems lifecycle and maintain the GxP validated state for all existing automation systems at the site.
• Manage, plan, develop, and execute automation projects from start-up to completion.
• Collaborate with multiple departments to design, test and maintain the functionality of automation systems.
• Provide and/or coordinate vendor training to new users of automation systems.
• Ensure compliance with Novartis Information Security Risk Management policies.
• Provide technical support to operations and support personnel.
• Continually update technical knowledge and skills to reflect advancements in industry technology and processes.

The pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be between $97,600 to $146,400 a year; however, while salary ranges are effective from 1/1/24 through 12/31/24, fluctuations in the job market may necessitate adjustments to pay ranges during this period. Further, final pay determinations will depend on various factors, including, but not limited to geographical location, experience level, knowledge, skills and abilities. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, including a sign-on bonus, restricted stock units, and discretionary awards in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits (including 401(k) eligibility and various paid time off benefits, such as vacation, sick time, and parental leave), dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or related field is required
• 3+ years of relevant experience is required
• Extended interdisciplinary technical knowledge is required
• Experienced in a cGMP-regulated environment is required (pharmaceutical preferable)
• Experience with automation systems (OSI PI, Continuum, Siemens, DeltaV, PLCs, etc.) is required
• Knowledge of IT infrastructure/networks related to automation systems
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently with minimal direction
• Self-directed and able to manage competing priorities
• Must be able to work well with others in a team environment
• Strong computer skills
• Ability to focus on a variety of issues and drive to results
• Ability to interact with a variety of organizational levels and foster cross-functional and cross-cultural teamwork
• Working knowledge of Automation data technologies, standards, and protocols (e.g. OPC UA, MQTT, Modbus, UNS, ISA95, etc.).
• Familiarity with industry standards 21 CFR Part 11, Validation, and GAMP. 
• Must be able to work in controlled environments requiring special gowning.
• Good working GMP knowledge of pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities and major utilities.