Principal Engineer, R&D

6094-Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc. Legal Entity; Jacksonville (FL); On-site; USD 140,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Johnson & Johnson Vision in Jacksonville, FL seeks a Principal Engineer, R&D to lead and manage large equipment technology projects and develop automation solutions that advance eye-health innovations.

The role requires guiding cross-functional teams, defining system requirements, conducting qualification protocols, and mentoring peers while ensuring safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance across the project lifecycle.

Qualifications

• At least 10 years of engineering experience with automation solutions.
• Experience specifying, debugging, commissioning, and qualifying advanced automation systems.
• Experience in Medical Devices or regulated industries preferred.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills; data-driven decision making.

Responsibilities

• Manage Equipment Automation Capital Projects from business case through project closure.
• Evaluate project earned value and project progress.
• Negotiate contract terms with equipment suppliers.
• Plan, implement, monitor, and close large equipment technology projects across Johnson & Johnson Vision.
• Perform design tasks, including development of requirements, system specifications, qualification protocols, and report generation.
• Participate in review, negotiation, and oversight of support service contracts and vendor commitments.
• Generate and execute validation/qualification tests to ensure equipment performance.
• Collaborate with internal teams and mentor peers and partners.
• Address equipment application challenges with innovative solutions and ensure safety, OEE, and reliability improvements.
• Lead equipment commissioning and testing activities to ensure successful implementation.

Skills

Leadership

Statistical analysis

Data-driven decisions

Travel willingness

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Automation systems

Job description

Overview

Johnson & Johnson Vision is seeking a Principal Engineer, R&D in Jacksonville, FL. The role focuses on leading and managing large equipment technology projects, developing equipment automation solutions, and advancing eye-health innovations through cross-functional collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Manage Equipment Automation Capital Projects from business case proposal through project closure.
• Manage project earned value and project progress.
• Evaluate and negotiate contract terms with equipment suppliers.
• Plan, implement, monitor, and close large equipment technology projects across Johnson & Johnson Vision.
• Perform design tasks, including development of requirements, system specifications, qualification protocols, protocol execution, training, and report generation.
• Participate in review, negotiation, and oversight of support service contracts and vendor commitments.
• Generate and execute validation/qualification tests to ensure equipment performance.
• Collaborate with internal teams and mentor peers and partners.
• Address equipment application challenges with innovative solutions and ensure safety, OEE, and reliability improvements.
• Lead equipment commissioning and testing activities to ensure successful implementation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical/Electronic, Mechanical, Computer, Software, Chemical, or Industrial Engineering; Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum 10 years of engineering experience; experience delivering automation solutions with at least 10 years in related roles.
• Experience specifying, debugging, commissioning, and qualifying systems with advanced automation (minimum 5 years).
• Experience in Medical Devices, Pharmaceuticals, or other regulated industries preferred.
• Proficient in statistical analysis for data-driven decision-making.
• Demonstrated ability to complete projects with minimal guidance; strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Some experience with machine learning is a plus but not required.
• Willingness to travel up to 20% domestically and internationally.

Additional Information

Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by federal, state or local law. We actively seek qualified candidates who are protected veterans and individuals with disabilities as defined under VEVRAA and Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. If you require accommodations during the interview process, please contact the appropriate support resources.