Automation Engineer 3 - Downstream/Buffer

Job Description Summary

Ready to make a direct impact on the delivery of life-changing medicines? As an Automation Engineer III - Downstream/Buffer, you will support the automation systems that enable reliable, compliant, and efficient manufacturing operations. Working within GMP production environments, you will contribute to automation projects, troubleshoot control systems, support system improvements, and partner with cross-functional teams to enhance operational performance and quality. This role offers the opportunity to develop technical expertise while supporting critical manufacturing processes in a collaborative and fast-paced environment.

Job Description

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:

• Support automation system design, configuration, maintenance, and lifecycle activities for Downstream/Buffer manufacturing operations.
• Provide technical support for DCS, BMS, MES, and associated control systems to ensure reliable plant operations.
• Participate in automation projects from design through implementation and operational handoff.
• Support integration of third-party equipment into site automation and manufacturing platforms.
• Develop and maintain automation documentation, including User Requirements Specifications (URS), Functional Specifications (FS), and design specifications.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, and Engineering teams to support project objectives and operational priorities.
• Support new product introductions and the successful transition of processes into GMP manufacturing.
• Investigate automation-related deviations and support implementation of corrective actions and continuous improvements.
• Execute change controls, system upgrades, and automation enhancements in compliance with GMP requirements.
• Provide technical support for manufacturing operations, including participation in a rotating on-call schedule.

Essential Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline.
• 5+ years of automation experience in pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical GMP manufacturing environments, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience supporting DCS platforms, preferably Emerson DeltaV.
• Experience with PLC, SCADA, HMI, and manufacturing automation systems.
• Knowledge of GMP regulations, FDA requirements, and 21 CFR Part 11 within regulated manufacturing environments.
• Experience supporting validation activities, change controls, and automation system lifecycle management.
• Strong troubleshooting, communication, and technical documentation skills.
• Experience working collaboratively with cross-functional teams to resolve technical issues and support manufacturing operations.

Novartis Compensation and Benefit Summary:

The salary for this position is expected to range between $98,700 and $183,300 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.

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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 and 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 +1(877)395-2339 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.

Salary Range

$98,700.00 - $183,300.00

Skills Desired

Business Continuity, Change Controls, Cost Management, Data Analytics, Emotional Resilience, Engineering Concepts, Good Documentation Practices, Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Policy, Manufacturing Processes, Operational Excellence, Quality Compliance, Risk Management, Tool Knowledge, Total Productive Maintenance (TPM)