Sr Engineer, Automation Applications​/Surgical Robotics - OTTAVA

Senior Engineer, Automation Applications

Johnson & Johnson RAD (Robotics and Digital) is seeking an experienced Senior Engineer, Automation Applications to architect, develop, and deploy scalable, next-generation automation across manufacturing operations. In this role, you will deliver end-to-end automation solutions—including robotic cells, semi-reconfigurable automated assembly, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), smart workstations, and IoT-enabled workflows—ensuring robust system design, compliance, and seamless integration from the shop floor through OT/IT interfaces to enterprise digital platforms.

You will drive modular, cost-effective automation that improves throughput and cycle time, elevates quality and reliability, and increases production flexibility. The successful candidate brings deep hands-on engineering capability, strong troubleshooting instincts, and the ability to lead technical decisions across cross-functional teams and external partners.

Key Responsibilities:

• Own end-to-end delivery of automation solutions from concept through commissioning and handover (FAT/SAT, IQ/OQ where applicable, run-at-rate).
• Architect and implement semi-automated to fully automated robotic solutions, including X-Y Cartesian systems, robotic cells, EOAT, vision-guided assembly, smart workstations for digital workers, and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs).
• Define functional specifications, URS/FRS, test plans, acceptance criteria, and commissioning documentation.
• Lead system design reviews and provide technical direction to internal teams and integrators; ensure modular, scalable, maintainable designs.
• Specify, integrate, and validate hardware and software: robots, PLCs, HMIs, safety controllers, vision systems, sensors, actuators, and industrial networks.
• Drive machine safety and risk assessments (guarding, interlocks, collaborative robot safety) and maintain EHS compliance documentation.
• Set up functional safety and standards compliance for robot cells and AMR operations (e.g., ISO 10218/TS 15066, ISO 13849/IEC 62061, ISO 12100).
• Implement OT/IIoT connectivity, edge devices and monitoring (equipment status, alarms, cycle time, OEE drivers); collaborate on dashboards and analytics.
• Develop and maintain automation standards, reusable libraries, and digital engineering artifacts (robot simulation, offline programming, digital twin where applicable).
• Partner with manufacturing, operations, quality, IT, and cybersecurity to drive solutions.
• Evaluate and manage partners and system integrators, including RFQ/SOW development, technical delivery, schedule tracking, and budget management for automation projects.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, Robotics, Computer, or Manufacturing Engineering.
• 5+ years delivering industrial automation and/or robotics solutions in manufacturing (medical device / regulated industries preferred).
• Hands-on experience integrating industrial robots (ABB, KUKA, UR, Mecademic or similar): cell layout, EOAT, safety, cycle-time optimization.
• PLC and controls experience (Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Beckhoff or similar), including troubleshooting motion, IO, and safety architectures.
• Familiarity with industrial networking and OT protocols (Ethernet/IP, OPC UA, MQTT) and basic network troubleshooting.
• Strong machine safety knowledge and experience with risk assessments and safe design practices.
• Systems engineering experience: URS/FRS, design specs, test plans, commissioning documentation.
• Experience with sensors and machine vision integration for inspection/guidance.
• Proven debugging and root cause analysis skills across mechanical, electrical, controls, and software interfaces.
• Experience with digital engineering tools (simulation/offline programming, cell emulation, digital twins) to de-risk deployments.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing and Continuous Improvement methods (Value stream mapping, DMAIC, Kaizen) and using data to drive improvements in OEE, throughput, quality and yield.
• Vendor management experience including RFQ development, technical evaluation, and oversight of integrator build/verification.

Preferred:

• Experience delivering automation in regulated environments (e.g., medical device, pharma) including documentation rigor, change control, and validation (IQ/OQ/PQ) concepts.
• Experience with Industry 4.0 / IIoT connectivity (OPC UA, MQTT, REST APIs) and integration to MES.
• Knowledge of statistical process control, poka-yoke/error-proofing, traceability, and automated inspection strategies.
• Programming/scripting experience (e.g., Python, C#, structured text) used for automation tooling, data extraction, or test automation.

Other:

• May require up to 10% domestic and/or international travel.
• The attendance policy required for this role is Fully Onsite

Johnson & Johnson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin,…