Sr. Automation Engineer - Downstream/Buffer
Novartis
Summary
Ready to make a direct impact on the delivery of life-changing medicines? As a Sr. Automation Engineer - Downstream/Buffer, you will serve as a key technical leader supporting the automation systems that enable reliable, compliant, and efficient manufacturing operations. Working across complex GMP production environments, you'll drive automation strategy, lead critical projects, troubleshoot advanced control systems, and partner with cross-functional teams to continuously improve performance, quality, and operational excellence.
Job description
Key Responsibilities
- Lead automation system design, configuration, maintenance, and lifecycle support across manufacturing operations.
- Serve as the technical SME for DCS, BMS, MES, and associated control systems.
- Drive automation project execution from concept through implementation and operational handoff.
- Oversee integration of third-party equipment into site automation and manufacturing platforms.
- Develop URS, FS, and design specifications to support compliant system delivery.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to establish priorities, timelines, and project objectives.
- Support new product introductions and ensure successful transition into GMP manufacturing.
- Investigate automation-related non-conformances and implement effective corrective actions.
- Execute change controls, system upgrades, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Provide technical support for manufacturing operations, including participation in on-call rotations.
Essential Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline.
- 8+ years of automation experience within GMP pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical manufacturing environments.
- Hands-on experience supporting DCS platforms, preferably Emerson DeltaV.
- Proven expertise with PLC, SCADA, HMI, and manufacturing automation systems.
- Strong knowledge of validation practices, GMP regulations, FDA requirements, and 21 CFR Part 11.
- Experience applying ISA-88 principles and developing automation standards within regulated environments.
- Demonstrated project leadership experience, including management of contractors and external partners.
- Strong troubleshooting, communication, and technical writing skills with the ability to solve complex challenges.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline.
- 8+ years of automation experience within GMP pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical manufacturing environments.
- Hands-on experience supporting DCS platforms, preferably Emerson DeltaV.
- Proven expertise with PLC, SCADA, HMI, and manufacturing automation systems.
- Strong knowledge of validation practices, GMP regulations, FDA requirements, and 21 CFR Part 11.
- Experience applying ISA-88 principles and developing automation standards within regulated environments.
- Demonstrated project leadership experience, including management of contractors and external partners.
- Strong troubleshooting, communication, and technical writing skills with the ability to solve complex challenges.
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Disability benefits
- 401(k) with company match
- Performance-based cash incentive
- Annual equity awards
- Vacation
- Personal days
- Holidays
Company overview
Novartis is a global pharmaceutical company headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, dedicated to reimagining medicine to improve and extend people's lives. As an innovative medicines company, Novartis focuses on developing high-value treatments that address society's greatest disease burdens through technology leadership in research and development. The company operates across five core therapeutic areas: cardiovascular, renal and metabolic diseases; immunology; neuroscience; oncology; and hematology. With a workforce of approximately 75,883 employees worldwide, Novartis reaches nearly 300 million patients across 118 countries. The company leverages advanced technology platforms including targeted protein degradation, cell therapy, gene therapy, radioligand therapy, and xRNA to develop breakthrough treatments. Novartis maintains a strong portfolio of oncology drugs and generics while continuously expanding its pipeline through strategic acquisitions and internal research. The company's commitment extends beyond drug development to ensuring global access to medical innovations through novel access approaches and patient assistance programs.