Senior Engineer, Automation - Packaging/Serialization

Novartis; Durham (NC); On-site; USD 109,000 - 202,000; Full time

Job summary

Novartis in Durham, NC, seeks a Senior Engineer, Automation - Packaging/Serialization to lead automation systems supporting packaging operations, serialization, and traceability in a GMP environment. You will drive project execution from concept to handoff, work with DCS/BMS/MES, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure compliant delivery and continuous improvement.

On-site role with focus on site automation excellence.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with DCS platforms, preferably Emerson DeltaV.
• Proven PLC/SCADA/HMI expertise in manufacturing automation.
• Strong knowledge of GMP, FDA regulations, and 21 CFR Part 11.
• Experience applying ISA-88 principles and automation standards.
• Solid project leadership including contractors and external partners.
• Excellent troubleshooting and technical writing skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead automation support for packaging and serialization systems across manufacturing operations.
• Serve as the technical SME for DCS, BMS, MES and related control systems.
• Drive automation projects from concept through implementation and handoff.
• Oversee integration of packaging equipment and serialization into site automation platforms.
• Develop URS, FS, and design specs to support compliant delivery.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to establish priorities, timelines, and project objectives.
• Support new product launches and packaging implementations within GMP manufacturing.
• Investigate automation-related non-conformances and implement corrective actions.
• Execute change controls, system upgrades, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Provide technical support for manufacturing operations, including participation in on-call rotations.

Skills

DCS platforms

Emerson DeltaV

PLC

SCADA

HMI

Manufacturing automation systems

Validation practices

GMP regulations

FDA requirements

21 CFR Part 11

ISA-88

Project leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical discipline

Job description

Ready to help ensure life-changing medicines reach patients safely and reliably? As a Senior Engineer, Automation - Packaging/Serialization, you will provide technical leadership for the automation systems that support packaging operations, serialization processes, and product traceability across the manufacturing environment. Working within a GMP-regulated facility, you'll drive automation innovation, enhance system performance, and lead critical projects that strengthen compliance, operational efficiency, and supply chain integrity. This role offers the opportunity to make a visible impact on how products are packaged, tracked, and delivered to patients worldwide.

Ready to help ensure life-changing medicines reach patients safely and reliably? As a Senior Engineer, Automation - Packaging/Serialization, you will provide technical leadership for the automation systems that support packaging operations, serialization processes, and product traceability across the manufacturing environment. Working within a GMP-regulated facility, you'll drive automation innovation, enhance system performance, and lead critical projects that strengthen compliance, operational efficiency, and supply chain integrity. This role offers the opportunity to make a visible impact on how products are packaged, tracked, and delivered to patients worldwide.

About The Role

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

• Lead automation support for packaging and serialization systems 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 packaging equipment and serialization technologies into site automation 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 launches and packaging implementation activities 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.

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.

Novartis Compensation And Benefit Summary

The salary for this position is expected to range between $108,500 and $201,500 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.

Why Novartis:

Helping people with disease and their families takes more than innovative science. It takes a community of smart, passionate people like you. Collaborating, supporting and inspiring each other. Combining to achieve breakthroughs that change patients’ lives. Ready to create a brighter future together? https://www.novartis.com/about/strategy/people-and-culture

Benefits and Rewards:

Learn about all the ways we’ll help you thrive personally and professionally.

Read our handbook (PDF 30 MB)

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, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.

Accessibility & 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 to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an e-mail to [email protected] or call [phone] and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.