Senior Utility Engineer — Pharma Ops (Onsite)

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

Job summary

Novartis in Durham, NC seeks an on-site Utility Engineer III to own and optimize site utility, HVAC, and electrical systems for reliable manufacturing operations. You will lead troubleshooting, document procedures, and drive continuous improvement across regulated facilities.

The role demands strong technical writing, root-cause analysis, and hands-on experience with BMS and PLCs, aligning with CFR and GMP standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering with 5+ years relevant experience, or comparable work history.
• Experience supporting utility, HVAC, electrical, or facility systems in regulated environments.
• Ability to maintain equipment and systems in a validated state.
• Strong technical writing skills for regulated documentation.
• Root cause analysis and structured problem solving experience.
• Hands-on troubleshooting with equipment, BMS, and PLCs.
• Solid project management and cross-functional collaboration.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Own and manage site utility, electrical, and HVAC systems to ensure reliable operations.
• Provide hands-on engineering oversight for installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of critical assets.
• Lead changes to utility and facility equipment to maintain validated states.
• Create, review, and approve procedures, maintenance plans, drawings, and specifications.
• Analyze complex equipment issues and deliver robust engineering solutions.
• Support regulatory inspections and internal audits with corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with current GMP, CFR, and internal quality standards.
• Oversee external vendors to ensure safe, high-quality work.
• Drive continuous improvement to enhance reliability and efficiency.
• Monitor equipment performance and implement maintenance strategies.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Chemical, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering

Associate degree, diploma, or certification in engineering or skilled technical field

Equivalent work experience in regulated industries

Tools

Building Management Systems

Industrial PLCs

Job description

Novartis in Durham, NC seeks an on-site Utility Engineer III to own and optimize site utility, HVAC, and electrical systems for reliable manufacturing operations. You will lead troubleshooting, document procedures, and drive continuous improvement across regulated facilities.

The role demands strong technical writing, root-cause analysis, and hands-on experience with BMS and PLCs, aligning with CFR and GMP standards.