Site Robotics Strategic Lead

Job Description Summary

Help shape the future of manufacturing through robotics innovation. As the Site Robotics Strategic Lead, you will drive the strategy, evaluation, and deployment of advanced robotics technologies that enhance productivity, accelerate innovation, and support operational excellence across manufacturing operations. Working with global stakeholders, vendors, and site teams, you will transform emerging technologies into scalable, GMP-compliant solutions that deliver measurable business value.

Job Description

 Location:

• This position will be located in Durham, NC and will be an onsite role.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain the site robotics technology strategy aligned with manufacturing and business objectives.
• Define and harmonize robotics standards, requirements, and roadmaps across shared work centers.
• Own and maintain User Requirement Specifications (URS) for robotics technologies and platforms.
• Lead evaluation and deployment of emerging robotics solutions, including computer vision and physical AI.
• Translate innovative technologies into scalable, site-ready solutions that deliver measurable value.
• Manage the robotics technology catalog, ensuring accuracy, readiness, and governance of approved solutions.
• Assess vendor capabilities and partner with Procurement to select and manage strategic suppliers.
• Drive pilot programs and technology adoption through collaboration with site and global stakeholders.
• Present roadmap progress, technology recommendations, and project outcomes to leadership forums.
• Ensure robotics solutions comply with GMP, GxP, cybersecurity, and quality system requirements.

Essential Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Robotics, Automation, Mechatronics, Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
• 7+ years of experience in industrial robotics, automation, or advanced manufacturing environments.
• Proven experience leading robotics or automation projects from concept through deployment.
• Strong knowledge of robotics systems, automation architectures, and manufacturing technologies.
• Experience developing technical standards, URS documentation, and technology roadmaps.
• Understanding of GMP, GxP, validation, data integrity, and quality system requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders and drive technology adoption.
• Strong communication, analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.

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.

#LI-Onsite

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

$108,500.00 - $201,500.00

Skills Desired

Business Continuity, Cost Management, Decision Making, Operational Excellence, Problem Solving, Project Management, Quality Compliance, Risk Management, Stakeholder Management, Vendor Management