Johnson & Johnson · 1 month ago
Principal Automation/Robotics Engineer, Cell Therapy
Spring House, Pennsylvania, United States of America
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level, Lead/Staff
6+ years expJohnson & Johnson is a leader in healthcare innovation, seeking a Principal Automation/Robotics Engineer specializing in Cell Therapy. The role involves leading the design and deployment of automated systems for CAR-T manufacturing, driving innovation in automation and robotics, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
Hospital & Health Care
Responsibilities
Lead concept, design, and deployment of sophisticated automated systems and robotic modules for CAR-T manufacturing and enterprise workflows (including development, testing, and manufacturing) under GMP
Author, define and approve system architectures, user requirements, and design documentation (URS, PFD, FDS, FMEA, DHF, traceability matrices)
Initiate and be responsible for prototype development to assess feasibility and performance
Own and lead qualification activities (FAT/SAT/PPQ) with strategic oversight for system qualification and validation, ensuring readiness for audits and regulatory inspections
Act as global system owner for multiple platforms
Apply in-depth knowledge to proactively identify risks and implement mitigation strategies
Resolve highly complex technical issues across mechanical, software, vision, and control systems
Select and direct external vendors and integrators to evaluate, challenge, and implement pioneering technologies or upgrades
Drive continuous improvement initiatives and enterprise-level technology upgrades that advance system reliability, safety, and efficiency
Proactively identify risks and implement mitigation strategies to maintain timelines and production continuity
Be responsible for operational support and compliance activities across multiple sites: monitor equipment performance, maintenance, repairs, and reliability issues
Implement predictive maintenance and advanced analytics tools to sustain performance
Ensure preparation and delivery of comprehensive documentation (SOPs, O&M manuals, reports)
Lead compliance activities, audits, and regulatory inspections with minimal direction
Lead optimization of multi-step production flows using advanced control systems, dynamic scheduling, and batch orchestration
Shape and lead technology roadmap and run strategic automation programs, ensuring scalability and standardization across global sites
Align automation strategies across QA, IT, OT, facilities, and manufacturing to ensure scalability and standardization
Champion adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies, digital twins, and AI-driven process optimization
Lead technology transfers to other internal sites
Design and provide training and guidance to technical staff and operators
Mentor and lead junior and senior engineers and influence multi-functional teams
Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement
Represent automation strategy in enterprise forums and governance bodies
Qualification
Required
Master's or PhD in Mechanical, Automation, or Robotics Engineering or related technical field required with 6-8 years of overall experience
Minimum of 5 years of practical experience with robotics platforms, automated systems, and control systems, preferably in a regulated manufacturing environment
Proven grounding in engineering and computer science principles for designing automated and robotic components and mechanisms
Excellent verbal and written communication, able to tailor messaging from operators to senior management and external partners
Independent, self-motivated, and comfortable driving ambiguity in fast-paced and sophisticated environments to meet timelines with minimum supervision while maintaining a positive demeanor
Leading complex technical programs, including planning, execution, and stakeholder coordination
Directing external vendors/integrators for installation, upgrades, and troubleshooting
Running outsourced technical projects and selecting and supervising external vendors/integrators, communication, and execution of key deliverables such as URS, FDS, FMEA, SAT, and FAT
Applied experience with computer vision (passive/active) and AI/ML models and agents
Recognized domain expertise in automation and robotics
Proven ability to solve complex system challenges and innovate processes and technologies
Demonstrated ability to author technical documents such as SOPs, technical validation protocols and training materials
Strong leadership skills with ability to mentor and influence multi-functional teams
Advanced knowledge of control systems, robotics, and digital tools
Ability to drive innovation and technology scouting for automation and digital transformation
Demonstrated success in leading risk assessments and mitigation planning for new technology deployments
Work under minimal direction, lead projects, and review work of others
Preferred
Experience in a pharmaceutical or GMP -regulated manufacturing environment
Expertise in ISA S88/S95 systems, including Honeywell EBI, Emerson DeltaV, OSI Pi, Siemens PLCs, MES, SAP, and real-time data integration
Significant coding experience (e.g. Python, C++) and familiarity with Level 0/1 software
Deep understanding of IT/OT convergence, cybersecurity, and advanced analytics
Understanding of Industrial Automation Networks and Communication Protocols
Proven experience as system owner for multiple automated platforms
Knowledge of facility design (utility systems, HVAC, Grade C/D/CNC requirements)
Experience implementing Industry 4.0 technologies and AI-driven optimization
Experience with simulation or digital -twin software
Experience with RFID technology
Humor
Company
Johnson & Johnson
At Johnson & Johnson, we believe health is everything.
10001+ employees
H1B Sponsorship
Johnson & Johnson has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (48)
2024 (56)
2023 (58)
2022 (59)
2021 (44)
2020 (27)
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Alex Gorsky
Former Chairman and CEO, Johnson & Johnson
Joaquin Duato
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
Recent News
2025-10-07
2025-10-07
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