Principal Automation​/Robotics Engineer, Cell Therapy

Principal Automation/Robotics Engineer, Cell Therapy

Join to apply for the Principal Automation/Robotics Engineer, Cell Therapy role at Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine

Location:

Spring House, Pennsylvania, United States of America

We are searching for the best talent for the best Principal Automation/Robotics Engineer, Cell Therapy to be in Spring House, PA.

We are on a mission to transform autologous CAR‑T cell-therapy manufacturing with pioneering automation. As a Principal Automation/Robotics Engineer you will work under minimal supervision and lead portions of programs, projects, and processes. You will provide training and guidance to technical staff and act as a recognized domain expert in automation and robotics. You will establish operational plans and implement products, processes, and standards that have measurable impact on business results.

You will apply in-depth knowledge across multiple related fields to address complex problems and expand the application of automated solutions across development, manufacturing, and testing within Johnson & Johnson. You will shape technology strategy, drive enterprise-level innovation, and influence organizational standards while maintaining GMP compliance and operational excellence.

• 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.

• 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…