Alcon

Senior Engineer, Automation - Packaging/Serialization

Alcon$108K — $201K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical discipline.
  • 8+ years of automation experience in GMP pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical environments.
  • Hands-on experience with DCS platforms, preferably Emerson DeltaV.
  • Proven expertise with PLC, SCADA, HMI, and manufacturing automation systems.
  • Strong knowledge of validation practices, GMP regulations, FDA requirements, and 21 CFR Part 11.
  • Experience with ISA-88 principles and developing automation standards in regulated environments.
  • Demonstrated project leadership experience managing contractors and external partners.

Responsibilities

  • Lead automation support for packaging and serialization systems in manufacturing operations.
  • Serve as the technical SME for DCS, BMS, MES, and control systems.
  • Drive automation project execution from concept through implementation.
  • Oversee integration of packaging equipment and serialization technologies.
  • Develop URS, FS, and design specifications for system delivery.
  • Collaborate with teams to establish project priorities and timelines.
  • Support new product launches and packaging implementation in GMP manufacturing.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health, life, and disability benefits.
  • 401(k) with company contribution and match.
  • Generous time off package including vacation and personal days.
  • Performance-based cash incentives and potential for annual equity awards.
Full Job Description

Band

Level 4

Job Description Summary

Ready to help ensure life-changing medicines reach patients safely and reliably? As a Senior Engineer, Automation - Packaging/Serialization, you will provide technical leadership for the automation systems that support packaging operations, serialization processes, and product traceability across the manufacturing environment. Working within a GMP-regulated facility, you'll drive automation innovation, enhance system performance, and lead critical projects that strengthen compliance, operational efficiency, and supply chain integrity. This role offers the opportunity to make a visible impact on how products are packaged, tracked, and delivered to patients worldwide.


 

Job Description

 Location:

  • This position will be located in Durham, NC and will be an onsite role.
  • Novartis is unable to offer relocation support for this role: please only apply if this location is accessible for you.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead automation support for packaging and serialization systems across manufacturing operations.
  • Serve as the technical SME for DCS, BMS, MES, and associated control systems.
  • Drive automation project execution from concept through implementation and operational handoff.
  • Oversee integration of packaging equipment and serialization technologies into site automation platforms.
  • Develop URS, FS, and design specifications to support compliant system delivery.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to establish priorities, timelines, and project objectives.
  • Support new product launches and packaging implementation activities within GMP manufacturing.
  • Investigate automation-related non-conformances and implement effective corrective actions.
  • Execute change controls, system upgrades, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Provide technical support for manufacturing operations, including participation in on-call rotations.

Essential Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline.
  • 8+ years of automation experience within GMP pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical manufacturing environments.
  • Hands-on experience supporting DCS platforms, preferably Emerson DeltaV.
  • Proven expertise with PLC, SCADA, HMI, and manufacturing automation systems.
  • Strong knowledge of validation practices, GMP regulations, FDA requirements, and 21 CFR Part 11.
  • Experience applying ISA-88 principles and developing automation standards within regulated environments.
  • Demonstrated project leadership experience, including management of contractors and external partners.
  • Strong troubleshooting, communication, and technical writing skills with the ability to solve complex challenges.

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


 

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

About Alcon

Alcon is a global medical company specializing in eye care products and services. The company's products include surgical equipment, contact lenses, and eye drops. Alcon was founded in 1945 and is headquartered in Baar, Switzerland. The company operates in over 70 countries and has over 20,000 employees. In 2019, Alcon became an independent publicly traded company after being spun off from Novartis.
Learn more about Alcon
Size
24,389 employees
Market Cap
$33.3 billion
Industry
Founded
1945
NASDAQ

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