IT/OT Lab Specialist

NCBiotech; Durham (NC); On-site; USD 99,000 - 183,000; Full time

Job summary

Novartis in Durham, NC is seeking an IT/OT Lab Specialist to support laboratory computerized systems and equipment, ensuring compliant, high-availability operations that sustain scientific innovation.

You will work with cross-functional teams to implement system architectures, manage change controls, and assist FDA inspections, all within GMP/21 CFR 11 frameworks. This onsite role requires a Bachelor's in engineering or related field and 5+ years in pharmaceutical lab operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related technical field.
• 5+ years of pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical laboratory operations experience.
• Experience installing, configuring, and maintaining laboratory computerized systems in a GMP environment.
• Experience implementing computerized systems within a corporate network infrastructure.
• Knowledge of FDA regulations, including 21 CFR Part 11, and other applicable GMP requirements.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate across diverse teams.
• Experience managing vendor relationships and supporting third-party service providers.
• Proven troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities in complex, regulated operational environments.

Responsibilities

• Support the design, installation, configuration, and maintenance of laboratory instruments, software, and associated hardware.
• Ensure high availability and reliable performance of laboratory computerized systems and equipment.
• Partner with vendors and internal stakeholders to implement effective system architectures and connectivity solutions.
• Execute maintenance activities, user reviews, audit trail reviews, and other system lifecycle requirements.
• Manage change controls, CAPAs, and system documentation in accordance with GxP requirements.
• Support FDA inspections, internal audits, and compliance activities across assigned laboratory areas.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, compliance, and system performance.

Skills

Automation

Automation Testing

Debugging

Programming Languages

Python

Robotics

Software Testing

Technical Support

Test Automation

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Band

Level 3

Job Description Summary

Imagine being the technology partner who keeps critical laboratory operations running smoothly, compliantly, and efficiently every day. As an IT/OT Lab Specialist at Novartis, you will play a key role in supporting the computerized systems and laboratory technologies that enable scientific innovation and operational excellence. You'll work alongside cross-functional teams to ensure reliable system performance, maintain compliance with regulatory requirements, and help deliver the technology foundation that supports our mission to reimagine medicine for patients worldwide.

Job Description

Location

• This position will be located in Durham, NC and will be an onsite role.
• Novartis is unable to offer relocation support for this role: please only apply if this location is accessible for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the design, installation, configuration, and maintenance of laboratory instruments, software, and associated hardware.
• Ensure high availability and reliable performance of laboratory computerized systems and equipment.
• Partner with vendors and internal stakeholders to implement effective system architectures and connectivity solutions.
• Execute maintenance activities, user reviews, audit trail reviews, and other system lifecycle requirements.
• Manage change controls, CAPAs, and system documentation in accordance with GxP requirements.
• Support FDA inspections, internal audits, and compliance activities across assigned laboratory areas.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, compliance, and system performance.

Essential Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related technical field.
• 5+ years of pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical laboratory operations experience, or equivalent industry experience.
• Experience installing, configuring, and maintaining laboratory computerized systems in a GMP environment.
• Experience implementing computerized systems within a corporate network infrastructure.
• Knowledge of FDA regulations, including 21 CFR Part 11, and other applicable GMP requirements.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate across diverse teams.
• Experience managing vendor relationships and supporting third-party service providers.
• Proven troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities in complex, regulated operational environments.

Desirable Requirements

• Experience with Quality by Design, Six Sigma, or Operational Excellence methodologies.
• Experience supporting investigations, non-conformances, and computerized system compliance activities.

Novartis Compensation and Benefit Summary

The salary for this position is expected to range between $98,700 and $183,300 annually

The final salary offered is determined based on factors like, but not limited to, relevant skills and experience, and upon joining Novartis will be reviewed periodically. Novartis may change the published salary range based on company and market factors.

Your compensation will include a performance-based cash incentive and, depending on the level of the role, eligibility to be considered for annual equity awards.

US-based eligible employees will receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, life and disability benefits, a 401(k) with company contribution and match, and a variety of other benefits. In addition, employees are eligible for a generous time off package including vacation, personal days, holidays and other leaves.

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EEO Statement

The Novartis Group of Companies are Equal Opportunity Employers. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. We strive to create an inclusive workplace that cultivates bold innovation through collaboration and empowers our people to unleash their full potential.

Accessibility and reasonable accommodations

The Novartis Group of Companies are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an e-mail to [e-mail] call [phone] and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message. https://www.novartis.com/careers/careers-research/notice-all-applicants-us-job-openings

Salary Range

$98,700.00 - $183,300.00

Skills Desired

Automation, Automation Testing, Debugging, Programming Languages, Python (Programming Language), Robotics, Software Testing, Technical Support, Test Automation