Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine · 2 weeks ago
Senior Automation/Robotics Engineer, Cell Therapy
Spring House, PA
Full-time
Onsite
Mid, Senior Level
4+ years expJohnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine is focused on healthcare innovation and advancing treatments. They are seeking a Senior Automation/Robotics Engineer to lead the design and integration of automated systems for CAR-T cell therapy manufacturing, ensuring compliance and operational excellence while mentoring junior engineers.
Pharmaceuticals
Responsibilities
Lead the concept, design, configuration, and deployment of automated systems and robotic modules for CAR-T manufacturing and support system workflows (e.g., kitting, inspection, tracking, transport, cell isolation, expansion, formulation, cryopreservation, and waste management) under GMP
Define, review, and approve system architectures, user requirements, and design documentation (URS, PFD, FDS, DHF, traceability matrices)
Supervise building and testing functional prototypes to assess feasibility and performance
Handle FAT/SAT and PPQ protocols for system qualification and validation, ensuring readiness for audits and regulatory inspections
Act as primary system owner for multiple automated platforms
Apply advanced knowledge to resolve complex issues proactively and scout new technologies and digital tools
Lead root-cause analysis and fixing across mechanical, software, vision, and control systems
Drive continuous improvement initiatives that advance system reliability, safety, and efficiency
Collaborate with external vendors and integrators to evaluate, challenge, and implement the latest technologies or upgrades
Proactively identify risks and implement mitigation strategies to maintain timelines and production continuity
Supervise operational support: monitor equipment performance, schedule preventive maintenance, and resolve reliability issues
Implement digital tools for predictive maintenance and performance analytics
Ensure preparation and delivery of comprehensive user documentation (SOPs, O&M manuals, reports)
Prepare for compliance activities, audits, and regulatory inspections with minimal supervision
Drive optimization of multi-step production flows using advanced control systems, dynamic scheduling, and batch orchestration
Lead technology roadmap initiatives; handle automation subprojects including scope, timelines, and vendor coordination
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
Support technology transfer to other internal sites
Mentor and coach junior engineers; review technical results and provide guidance on procedures
Deliver operator training sessions, workshops, and competency assessments
Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within the automation team
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's, Master's or PhD in Mechanical, Automation, or Robotics Engineering or related technical field preferred with 4-6 years of overall experience
Minimum of 3 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
Handling or coordinating complex technical projects, including timelines, deliverables, planning, execution, and stakeholder coordination
Supervising external vendors/integrators for installation, upgrades, and troubleshooting
Managing outsourced technical projects, 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
Proven ability to solve complex systems and contribute to technical innovation
Demonstrated ability to author technical documents such as SOPs, technical validation protocols and training materials
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 limited supervision, lead portions of projects, and reviews work of others
Preferred
Experience in a pharmaceutical or GMP-regulated manufacturing environment
Technical knowledge of 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
This hands-on position will be based in the US (East Coast, Spring House) and on-site presence is required
Willingness to travel up to 20% during project phases and 10% during normal operations
Company
Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine
Johnson and Johnson Innovative Medicine focuses on developing medical solutions for some of the challenging diseases and medical conditions.
10001+ employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Molly Perkins
VP, Head of Cell & Genetic Medicines Discovery
Recent News
2025-08-14
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