Digital Automation Engineer, Cell Therapy

AstraZeneca plc; California (MD); On-site; USD 103,000 - 155,000; Full time

Job summary

AstraZeneca plc is seeking a Digital Automation Engineer to design, develop and integrate digital manufacturing and automation solutions for Cell Therapy operations in a regulated GMP setting.

The role spans software, AI, and robotics with exposure to MES/LIMS and low-code platforms like Tulip. Requires 2+ years in relevant roles and a STEM degree; collaborate across Ops, Automation, QMS, and Digital IT teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in CS/Software Eng or related field.
• At least 2 years of software development experience.
• Foundational programming in Python, Java, JavaScript, or C#.
• Basic AI/ML concepts understood.
• Exposure to robotics/embedded systems.
• Familiar with APIs, databases, and Git.
• Strong problem-solving and regulated manufacturing mindset.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.

Responsibilities

• Develop, test, and maintain software for MES, automation, and digital workflows.
• Write clean, documented code in Python, Java, JavaScript, or C#.
• Participate in code reviews, unit tests, and debugging.
• Support low-code/no-code apps (Tulip) for shop floor workflows.
• Assist with building/testing APIs and integrations.
• Support AI/ML model development and data prep.
• Assist robotics/automation integration with OT systems.
• Document integration processes and workflows.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing Ops, Automation, Quality, and Digital IT.
• Participate in Agile ceremonies.

Skills

Python

Java

JavaScript

C#

AI/ML concepts

Robotics exposure

APIs

Git

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/Software Eng or related field

Tools

Tulip

OPC-UA

MQTT

TensorFlow

PyTorch

scikit-learn

Job description

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. The ideal candidate is an early-career engineer with a strong foundation in programming and a curiosity for applying AI, robotics, and software engineering to real-world manufacturing challenges in Cell Therapy.

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 elevate 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

Required Qualifications

• 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 2 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

Preferred Qualifications

• Academic, internship, or personal project experience applying AI/ML frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn)
• Exposure to robotics platforms, PLCs, or industrial automation equipment
• Familiarity with low-code manufacturing platforms (e.g., Tulip) or manufacturing execution systems (MES/LIMS)
• Interest or coursework in Cell Therapy, biologics, pharmaceutical, or regulated (GxP) manufacturing environments
• Exposure to cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP) and CI/CD pipelines
• Knowledge of industrial connectivity protocols (OPC-UA, MQTT)
• Familiarity with Agile development practices

Cell Therapy

The annual base pay (or hourly rate of compensation) for this position ranges from $103K to $155K. Our positions offer eligibility for various incentives-an opportunity to receive short-term incentive bonuses, equity-based awards for salaried roles and commissions for sales roles. Benefits offered include qualified retirement programs, paid time off (i.e., vacation, holiday, and leaves), as well as health, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms of the applicable plans.

Date Posted

23-Oct-2026

Closing Date

05-Nov-2026

Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.