Pharma Automation Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Engineer, Automation Applications – OTTAVA (Santa Clara, California)

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. The role involves delivering 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• Experience delivering automation in regulated environments (e.g., medical device, pharma) including documentation rigor, change control, and validation (IQ/OQ/PQ) concepts.
• Experience with Industry4.0 / 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.

• May require up to 10% domestic and/or international travel.
• Attendance policy: fully onsite.

Anticipated base pay range: $109,000.00 to $153,748.00. Eligible for the company's long‑term incentive program and consolidated retirement plan (401(k)). Additional benefits include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short‑ and long‑term disability, business accident insurance, group legal insurance, and various time‑off policies such as vacation, sick time, holiday pay, work‑personal and family time, parental leave, condolence leave, caregiver leave, volunteer leave, and military spouse time‑off.

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, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by federal, state or local law. We actively seek qualified candidates who are protected veterans and individuals with disabilities as defined under VEVRAA and Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act.