Sr. Automation Engineer - Downstream/Buffer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health, life and disability benefits

401(k) with company match

Generous time off

Job summary

Novartis in Durham, NC is seeking a Sr. Automation Engineer for Downstream/Buffer. You will lead automation system design, drive project execution, and ensure compliant delivery across GMP manufacturing environments.

This onsite role requires DCS/DeltaV expertise, strong troubleshooting, and collaboration with cross‑functional teams to enable reliable operations. The role emphasizes lifecycle support, validation practices, and implementation of upgrades while supporting new product introductions

Qualifications

• 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.

Responsibilities

• Lead automation system design, configuration, maintenance, and lifecycle support 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 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 ensure successful transition into 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

Automation system design

DCS (DeltaV) expertise

PLC/SCADA/HMI

Validation & GMP compliance

ISA-88

Project leadership

Troubleshooting & technical writing

Education

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

Tools

Emerson DeltaV

PLC

SCADA

HMI

Job description

Summary

Ready to make a direct impact on the delivery of life-changing medicines? As a Sr. Automation Engineer - Downstream/Buffer, you will serve as a key technical leader supporting the automation systems that enable reliable, compliant, and efficient manufacturing operations. Working across complex GMP production environments, you'll drive automation strategy, lead critical projects, troubleshoot advanced control systems, and partner with cross-functional teams to continuously improve performance, quality, and operational excellence. This is an opportunity to combine deep technical expertise with meaningful influence in a highly collaborative manufacturing environment.

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 system design, configuration, maintenance, and lifecycle support 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 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 ensure successful transition into 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 email 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.