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Principal Automation Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Associate Principal Automation Engineer

Branchburg, NJ · On-site

$96K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Responsible for the design, implementation, integration and maintain automation systems across manufacturing operations. Responsible for moderate to complex configuration and programming of Operation ...

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Principal Automation Engineer information

See salary details

$85.5K

$128.2K

$209K

How much do principal automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal automation engineer in the United States is $128,153.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,000.00 and $135,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a principal automation engineer do?

A Principal Automation Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and overseeing automated systems and processes within an organization. They lead automation projects, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and ensure that automation solutions align with business goals. Additionally, they mentor junior engineers, establish best practices, and stay current with emerging automation technologies to enhance efficiency and productivity.

How does a principal automation engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during large-scale projects?

A Principal Automation Engineer often serves as a technical leader, working closely with software developers, QA engineers, project managers, and operations teams to design and implement robust automation frameworks. They facilitate regular meetings to align project goals, share automation best practices, and resolve technical roadblocks. Additionally, they mentor junior team members, ensuring consistent automation standards and driving continuous improvement across departments. This collaborative approach enables efficient delivery of scalable and reliable automation solutions.

What is the difference between Principal Automation Engineer vs Automation Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Automation EngineerAutomation Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, certifications like ISTQB, automation tools expertiseBachelor's in Engineering or related field, automation tools knowledge
Work EnvironmentLead automation projects, strategic planning, cross-team collaborationDevelop and execute automation scripts, testing, and implementation
Industry UsageUsed in software, manufacturing, and engineering sectors for high-level automationCommon in software testing, manufacturing, and IT industries

The Principal Automation Engineer typically holds a senior, strategic role overseeing automation initiatives, while the Automation Engineer focuses on executing automation tasks. Both roles require similar technical skills, but the Principal position involves leadership and planning responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal automation engineer?

To thrive as a Principal Automation Engineer, you need deep expertise in automation frameworks, scripting languages (such as Python or Java), and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with tools like Selenium, Jenkins, Docker, and CI/CD systems, as well as industry certifications in automation or DevOps, are typically required. Strong problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills set top candidates apart in guiding teams and collaborating across functions. These skills and qualities are crucial for designing scalable automation solutions, ensuring software reliability, and driving innovation in complex technical environments.
More about Principal Automation Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Principal Automation Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Principal Automation Engineer job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Principal Automation Engineer jobs? The top employers for Principal Automation Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Principal Automation Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Principal Automation Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Principal Automation Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,153 per year, or $61.6 per hour.

Sr. Principal - Engineer - Automation (Small Molecule)

Eli Lilly and Company

Houston, TX • On-site

$66 - $171.60/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Eli Lilly and Company rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

## Sr. Principal - Engineer - Automation (Small Molecule)Applylocations: US, Houston TXtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Todayjob requisition id: R-106853At Lilly, we unite caring with discovery to make life better for people around the world. We are a global healthcare leader headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our employees around the world work to discover and bring life-changing medicines to those who need them, improve the understanding and management of disease, and give back to our communities through philanthropy and volunteerism. We give our best effort to our work, and we put people first. We’re looking for people who are determined to make life better for people around the world.*At Lilly, we unite caring with discovery to make life better for people around the world. We are a global healthcare leader headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our 40,000 employees around the world work to discover and bring life-changing medicines to those who need them, improve the understanding and management of disease, and give back to our communities through philanthropy and volunteerism. We give our best effort to our work, and we put people first. We’re looking for people who are determined to make life better for people around the world.**Lilly is currently constructing an advanced manufacturing facility for production of API molecules located in Houston, TX. This facility is intended to provide APIs for current and future products, including new modalities. This is a unique opportunity to be a part of the site technical team for the* *startup of a greenfield manufacturing site, and the successful candidate will help to build the Processes, the facility and the culture to enable a successful startup into GMP manufacturing operations.***Responsibilities:**The Sr. Principal Automation Engineer – Small Molecule is a senior automation position that will lead the design and delivery of the DeltaV platform and associated software integration teams as part of Lilly’s manufacturing expansion. This role is intended to lead one or more project workstreams for the automation DCS function including design, scheduling, staffing, and qualification in the Drug Substance (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient) network.During the design and delivery (startup expected 2029 to 2030) of the project this role will be integrated into the corporate delivery team leading one or more workstreams on the design, delivery, and startup of drug substance manufacturing focusing on Small Molecule. This role will collaborate with A&E firms, system integrators, corporate and site engineering peers, and Tech@Lilly (Lilly’s corporate IT team) develop and manage the DeltaV DCS system and software design, testing, startup, and qualification.The Sr. Principal Automation Engineer is a site-based position but will be closely integrated with Lilly’s Corporate Automation Team GPACE. GPACE (Global Process Automation & Control Engineering) provides automation, measurement, and process control solutions to Lilly manufacturing as well as a technical resource for training, standards, and capital project delivery.Post project delivery, this role will support GMP manufacturing operations in small molecule or oligonucleotides. This will require significant collaboration, creativity and resilience as the site grows to a full scale GMP manufacturing through start up.Key Deliverables:* Champion a strong safety culture, mentor and coach others, and utilize engineering and automation fundamental principles in design and problem solving.* Collaborate with Lilly engineering, A&E firms, and system integrators to develop requirements and specifications that will be the foundation for software development and system architecture.* Manage one or more system integrators for fully deliver and test DeltaV software.* Collaborate with Tech@Lilly to deliver a fully integrated Automation/MES solution that is scaled for the needs of business.* Participate in basic and detailed design that also includes staffing, statements of work, supplier management, and delivery strategies for automation systems.* Participate in developing computer system validation strategies.* Develop and build capabilities within the Houston site automation team.* Develop site procedures for automation platforms and associated administration activites.* Provide engineering support for Process Safety Management (PSM) and Process Hazard Reviews (PHRs).* Provide technical oversight during development of equipment and process system User Requirements and related Design Review/Qualification documentation to ensure equipment and systems are appropriate for intended purpose.Basic Qualifications:* Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related applicable discipline required.* 5+ years of experience Process Automation with experience on the Emerson DeltaV Platform preferred. Other platform experience will be considered.* 5+ years of experience in API/Drug Substance manufacturing preferred. Related manufacturing experience will be considered.* Qualified applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Lilly will not provide support for or sponsor work authorization or visas for this role, including but not limited to F-1 CPT, F-1 OPT, F-1 STEM OPT, J-1, H-1B, TN, O-1, E-3, H-1B1, or L-1.Additional Skills/Preferences:* Technical knowledge in process instrumentation.* Batch control.* Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.* Ability to collaborate with others.* Ability to influence.* Technical knowledge on the utilization of data historians.* Experience with system integration including MES.Additional Information:* Potential for travel (less than 20% - could be domestic and/or international).Lilly is dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities to actively engage in the workforce, ensuring equal opportunities when vying for positions. If you require accommodation to submit a resume for a position at Lilly, please complete the accommodation request form (https://careers.lilly.com/us/en/workplace-accommodation) for further assistance. Please note this is for individuals to request an accommodation as part of the application process and any other correspondence will not receive a response.Lilly is proud to be an EEO Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender identity, sex, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.Our employee resource groups (ERGs) offer strong support networks for their members and are open to all employees. Our current groups include: Africa, Middle East, Central Asia Network, Black Employees at Lilly, Chinese Culture Network, Japanese International Leadership Network (JILN), Lilly India Network, Organization of Latinx at Lilly (OLA), PRIDE (LGBTQ+ Allies), Veterans Leadership Network (VLN), Women’s Initiative for Leading at Lilly (WILL), enAble (for people with disabilities). Learn more about all of our groups.Actual compensation will depend on a candidate’s education, experience, skills, and geographic location. The anticipated wage for this position is$66,000 - $171,600### Full-time equivalent employees also will be eligible for a company bonus (depending, in part, on company and individual performance). In addition, Lilly offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees, including eligibility to participate in a company-sponsored 401(k); pension; vacation benefits; eligibility for medical, dental, vision and prescription drug benefits; flexible benefits (e.g., healthcare and/or dependent day care flexible spending accounts); life insurance and death benefits; certain time off and leave of absence benefits; and well-being benefits (e.g., employee assistance program, fitness benefits, and employee clubs and activities).Lilly reserves the right to amend, modify, or terminate its compensation and benefit programs in its sole discretion and Lilly’s compensation practices and guidelines will apply regarding the details of any promotion or transfer of Lilly employees. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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About Eli Lilly

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Eli Lilly, based in Indianapolis, IN, US, is one of the pioneers in the pharmaceutical industry with a rich history dating back to 1876. This global pharmaceutical company focuses on discovering, developing, manufacturing and selling pharmaceutical products in approximately 120 countries. The company's product categories include endocrinology, oncology, cardiovascular, neuroscience, and immunology. Having invested over $9 billion in research and development in the past decade, Eli Lilly is also committed to creating high-quality medicines that meet real needs. As a recipient of several awards and recognitions, Eli Lilly is known for its focus on life-saving research and drug development. Their mission is to make medicines that help people live longer, healthier, and more active lives.

Industry

Pharmaceutical product wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Indianapolis, IN, US

Year founded

1876