1

Senior Automation Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Senior Engineer, Automation

Durham, NC · On-site

$108K - $201K/yr

Summary The Senior Automation Engineer reports to the AD Process Automation and is responsible for providing automation design team leadership and serving as a technical subject matter expert for a ...

About the Role The Senior Automation Engineer has a thorough understanding of the development and field implementation of documents through all project phases, sizes and levels of complexity. Their ...

About the Role The Senior Automation Engineer has a thorough understanding of the development and field implementation of documents through all project phases, sizes and levels of complexity. Their ...

About the Role The Senior Automation Engineer has a thorough understanding of the development and field implementation of documents through all project phases, sizes and levels of complexity. Their ...

Senior Production Automation Engineer

Cary, NC · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

Senior Production Automation Engineer Category: Software Development/ Engineering Main location: United States, North Carolina, Cary Position ID:J0526-2299 Employment Type: Full Time U.S. - The best ...

Experience with hands-on programming and trouble-shooting skills for Automation, Instrumentation and IT systems. * Experience interfacing with operational and senior management within the ...

Experience with hands-on programming and trouble-shooting skills for Automation, Instrumentation and IT systems. * Experience interfacing with operational and senior management within the ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Automation Engineer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$50.1K

$118.5K

$163.3K

How much do senior automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior automation engineer in Raleigh, NC is $118,452.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,100.00 and $132,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest salary for automation engineer?

The highest salaries for senior automation engineers can exceed $150,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or regions with a strong tech presence. Factors such as experience, certifications, and expertise with tools like Selenium, Jenkins, or scripting languages influence earning potential.

What Is the Job Description of a Senior Automation Engineer?

The duties of a senior automation engineer are to develop, design, and configure systems that automate processes, such as manufacturing or software processes. Some people in this position work exclusively with software design while others work with hardware design and production. Some may provide both digital and physical solutions to automation problems. Regardless of the field, the responsibilities of a senior automation engineer are to improve efficiency while reducing the number of people it takes to complete a given process. Qualifications typically include a bachelor’s or master’s degree, experience in the industry, and leadership skills.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior Automation Engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in scripting and testing tools, and certifications in automation or related fields can earn $200,000 or more annually. Salaries vary based on industry, location, and company size, with those in high-demand sectors or with specialized expertise often reaching this level.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Automation Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Automation Engineer, you need a deep understanding of 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, along with certifications like ISTQB or Certified Automation Professional (CAP), is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, leadership, effective communication, and collaboration skills help you excel in guiding teams and managing complex projects. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring the reliability, scalability, and efficiency of automated systems in fast-paced technical environments.

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

AspectSenior Automation EngineerAutomation Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; often some certifications in automation toolsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; certifications in automation tools are common
Work EnvironmentDesigning, developing, and overseeing automation systems; leading projectsImplementing automation solutions; supporting existing systems
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, software, automotive, and industrial sectorsManufacturing, software development, and industrial sectors

Senior Automation Engineers typically have more experience, lead projects, and handle complex automation systems, while Automation Engineers focus on implementing and supporting automation solutions. Both roles require similar credentials and are used across various industries, but senior roles involve more leadership and strategic responsibilities.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Senior automation engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in programming, and knowledge of tools like Python, PLCs, or robotics can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Achieving this level often requires advanced certifications, a strong track record, and working in competitive or high-cost regions.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior automation engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in scripting and control systems, and certifications such as Certified Automation Professional can earn $300,000 or more annually. High salaries are often found in industries like manufacturing, aerospace, and energy, especially for those working in leadership roles or managing large-scale projects.

How does a Senior Automation Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during large-scale projects?

Senior Automation Engineers frequently work alongside software developers, QA specialists, and operations teams to design and implement robust automated testing frameworks or process automation solutions. They often lead discussions to identify automation opportunities, define requirements, and ensure that automation integrates smoothly into existing workflows. Effective communication and documentation skills are essential, as they must translate complex technical needs for non-technical stakeholders and align efforts across departments. Collaboration may also involve mentoring junior engineers and conducting code reviews to maintain high standards and consistency.

What are Senior Automation Engineers?

Senior Automation Engineers are experienced professionals who design, develop, and implement automated systems and processes, often within manufacturing, software development, or IT environments. They are responsible for improving efficiency, reliability, and quality by creating and maintaining automation solutions. Senior Automation Engineers also lead teams, set technical standards, and troubleshoot complex automation issues. Their work often involves programming, system integration, testing, and collaboration with cross-functional teams.
What are the most commonly searched types of Automation Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Automation Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Automation Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Senior Automation Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Automation Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Automation Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Senior Automation Engineer jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Senior Automation Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Automation Engineer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,452 per year, or $56.9 per hour.
Senior Engineer, Automation

Senior Engineer, Automation

Novartis

Durham, NC • On-site

$108K - $201K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Novartis rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

57th of 74 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Job Description Summary

The Senior Automation Engineer reports to the AD Process Automation and is responsible for providing automation design team leadership and serving as a technical subject matter expert for a Novartis Aseptic Drug Product facility.


Job Description

Location: This position will be located in Durham, NC and will be an On-Site role.

Novartis is unable to offer relocation support for this role: please only apply if this location is accessible for you.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Ensure automation aspects of new equipment are appropriately designed, meet Novartis standards and are appropriately commissioned and qualified.
  • Provide oversight for automation aspects of projects including integration of 3rd party equipment to other standard plant systems, e.g., DCS, BMS, Historian, Infrastructure.
  • Provide design, configuration, installation, and maintenance of automation software and associated hardware for existing equipment and processes.
  • Prepare scopes of work for large projects, lead small teams and manage automation contractors as required to complete required work within project timelines.
  • Lead discussions with internal business partners on priorities, timelines and transparent sharing of information.
  • Develop, review and approve lifecycle documentation, e.g., User Requirements (URS), Functional Specification (FS) and Detail Design Specifications (DDS/HDS/SDS).
  • Develop and maintain procedures to meet GMP requirements, CFR's and internal company policies.
  • Participate and/or lead new product implementation processes to ensure smooth transition from process development into GMP manufacturing.
  • Drive operational excellence and continuous improvement.
  • Partner with Quality to ensure a quality and compliant manufacturing environment including participation in regulatory audits as an automation SME.
  • Solve technical related issues impacting production.
  • Support 24x7 site-based operations including rotating on-call responsibilities.
  • Support investigations of non-conformances related to automation systems.
  • Other related duties as assigned.

Essential Requirements:

  • B.S. degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field.
  • 8 years work experience in pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical based GMP manufacturing operations, or equivalent work experience (12 years) in pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical based GMP manufacturing operations.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills, including demonstrated technical writing skills.
  • Experience programming, troubleshooting, and maintaining various site automation systems including DCS, BMS, PLC, SCADA, historian, infrastructure, including use of various industrial protocols.
  • Experience in development and execution of system level qualification testing including providing guidance on qualification plans in conjunction with C&Q department.
  • Proven experience applying S88 in an automated environment and development of control system standards aligning with S88 methodology.
  • Experience in field wiring practices and panel design, experience with troubleshooting and start-up of control systems, and experience with instrumentation.
  • Experience writing and executing complex change controls.
  • In-depth knowledge of FDA regulations particularly 21 CFR part 11 and GMP systems.
  • Strong project management skill set with extensive experience in strategic / tactical planning, demonstrated ability to perform long-term project planning.
  • Ability to prepare contingency plans and logically work through complex issues in a pressure filled atmosphere.
  • Provide technical support on all manufacturing issues when driving towards issue resolution.
  • Up to 10% travel may be required.

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


EEO Statement:

The Novartis Group of Companies are Equal Opportunity Employers. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.


Accessibility and reasonable accommodations

The Novartis Group of Companies are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an e-mail to us.reasonableaccommodations@novartis.com or call +1(877)395-2339 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.


Salary Range

$108,500.00 - $201,500.00


Skills Desired

Api (Application Programming Interface), Api (Application Programming Interface), Automation, Back-End Development, Business Continuity, Change Control, Chemistry, Design Development, Electronic Components, General Hse Knowledge, Including Gdp, Java (Programming Language), Knowledge Of Capa, Knowledge Of Gmp, Kubernetes, Managing Performance Improvement, Manufacturing Production, Mathematical Optimization, Project Commissioning, Project Engineering, Project Execution, Reactjs, Risk Management, Root Cause Analysis (RCA), Scheduler {+ 2 more}

What Novartis employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom