Digital Automation Engineer, Cell Therapy
AstraZeneca
Summary
The Digital Automation Engineer will support the design, development, and integration of digital manufacturing and automation solutions for Cell Therapy operations, working under the guidance of senior engineers and technical leads. This role offers hands-on experience across software development, artificial intelligence (AI) applications, robotics integration, and manufacturing application development within a regulated, GMP manufacturing environment.
Job description
Key Responsibilities
Software & Application Development
- Develop, test, and maintain software applications and scripts supporting manufacturing execution, automation, and digital workflows, under the guidance of senior engineers
- Write clean, well-documented code in Python, Java, JavaScript, C#, or similar languages
- Participate in code reviews, unit testing, and debugging of applications
- Support development of low-code/no-code manufacturing applications (e.g., Tulip) for shop floor execution and operator workflows
- Assist with building and testing APIs and integrations between manufacturing systems
AI & Machine Learning
- Support development, training, and testing of AI/ML models for manufacturing use cases such as predictive maintenance, anomaly detection, and process optimization
- Assist with data collection, cleaning, and preparation for AI/ML projects
- Learn and apply foundational AI/ML frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn) under mentorship
- Contribute to proof-of-concept projects exploring AI-driven manufacturing intelligence
Robotics & Automation Integration
- Assist in integrating robotics platforms, automation equipment, and OT systems with digital manufacturing platforms
- Support configuration and testing of middleware and industrial connectivity protocols (e.g., OPC-UA, MQTT)
- Participate in troubleshooting of automation and robotics interfaces under supervision
- Document integration processes, equipment telemetry, and automation workflows
Manufacturing Systems Support
- Support day-to-day operation and continuous improvement of MES, LIMS, and manufacturing orchestration platforms
- Assist with testing, validation, and deployment of new digital manufacturing applications
- Help troubleshoot application issues and escalate complex problems to senior team members
- Contribute to documentation of system configurations and standard operating procedures
Collaboration & Professional Growth
- Partner with Manufacturing Operations, Automation Engineering, Quality, and Digital IT teams on assigned projects
- Participate in Agile ceremonies, including sprint planning, stand-ups, and retrospectives
- Seek mentorship from senior engineers to build technical and Cell Therapy domain expertise
- Pursue ongoing learning in GxP compliance, Cell Therapy manufacturing, and Industry 4.0 technologies
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automation/Mechatronics Engineering, Information Systems, or related field (or equivalent practical experience)
- At least 1+ years of experience in software development through internships, co-ops, academic projects, or professional roles
- Foundational programming skills in one or more languages: Python, Java, JavaScript, C#, or similar
- Basic understanding of AI/machine learning concepts, gained through coursework, projects, or self-study
- Exposure to robotics, automation, or embedded systems through coursework, internships, or personal projects
- Familiarity with application development fundamentals, including APIs, databases, and version control (e.g., Git)
- Strong problem-solving skills and eagerness to learn in a regulated manufacturing environment
- Effective written and verbal communication skills
Benefits
- Retirement programs
- Paid time off
- Vacation
- Holiday pay
- Leaves
- Health coverage
- Dental coverage
- Vision coverage
- Short-term incentive bonuses
- Equity-based awards
Company overview
AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused pharmaceutical company dedicated to accelerating the delivery of life-changing medicines that create enduring value for patients, society, and shareholders. With a workforce of over 94,300 employees worldwide, the company operates across three core therapy areas: Oncology, BioPharmaceuticals (including Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolism, Respiratory & Immunology), and Rare Disease. Headquartered in Cambridge, UK, AstraZeneca maintains strategic R&D centers in Cambridge, Gaithersburg (US), Boston (US), Gothenburg (Sweden), Shanghai, and Beijing. The company generated $54.1 billion in total revenue in 2024 and invested $13.6 billion in scientific research and development. AstraZeneca's bold aspiration is to be pioneers in science, lead in disease areas, and transform patient outcomes, with a goal to launch 20 new medicines and achieve $80 billion in total revenue by 2030. The company is recognized for its commitment to sustainability, health equity, and creating an inclusive work environment where diverse perspectives drive innovation.