Lead Upstream Automation Engineer – GMP & Media

U061 (FCRS = US061) Novartis Services, Inc.; Durham (NC); On-site; USD 109,000 - 202,000; Full time

Job summary

Novartis Services, Inc. in Durham, NC seeks a Sr. Automation Engineer – Upstream/Media to lead automation support for upstream manufacturing and media processes in a GMP environment.

You will be the technical SME for DCS/DeltaV, PLC, SCADA, and MES systems, guiding project execution from concept to handoff while coordinating with contractors and cross‑functional teams. The role requires a bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field and 8+ years in GMP automation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical discipline.
• 8+ years of automation experience in GMP pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical manufacturing.
• 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.

Responsibilities

• Lead automation support for upstream manufacturing and media process control systems.
• 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 upstream process implementation within 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.

Skills

Troubleshooting

Communication

Technical writing

Project leadership

Contractor management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Tools

Emerson DeltaV

PLC

SCADA

HMI

Job description

Novartis Services, Inc. in Durham, NC seeks a Sr. Automation Engineer – Upstream/Media to lead automation support for upstream manufacturing and media processes in a GMP environment.

You will be the technical SME for DCS/DeltaV, PLC, SCADA, and MES systems, guiding project execution from concept to handoff while coordinating with contractors and cross‑functional teams. The role requires a bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field and 8+ years in GMP automation.