Senior Automation Engineer, High-Throughput Screening

Job Description SummaryThe highthroughput biology group in Novartis San Diego is seeking a Senior Automation Engineer to join the Advanced Automation Technologies group. The primary responsibility of this role is to operate, maintain, and continuously improve highthroughput screening systems that support smallmolecule drug discovery. In addition to core screening operations, this role will contribute to the longerterm evolution of labintheloop capabilities, including chemistry automation and integration with data and AI systems. The Senior Automation Engineer will work closely with biologists, chemists, engineers, and data scientists to support daytoday discovery needs while helping advance nextgeneration automation platforms.Position DetailsInternal Job Title: Senior Automation EngineerPosition Location: onsite, San Diego, CA. Given the handson nature of the work and close collaboration with lab teams, this role is onsite in San Diego and not open to remote or hybrid arrangements. Regular physical presence in the lab is an essential requirement.Key ResponsibilitiesOperate, support, and maintain highthroughput screening systems for smallmolecule discoveryEnsure reliable execution of automated workflows, including system setup, calibration, and troubleshootingPartner with biologists and assay scientists to support screening campaigns and evolving experimental needsDiagnose workflow issues, interpret system performance data, and communicate findings to technical stakeholdersContribute to the design and improvement of chemistryadjacent and labintheloop workflowsSupport integration between automation systems, data infrastructure, and AI/ML toolsDevelop and maintain automation scripts using Python or similar languagesEssential RequirementsBachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Engineering, or related discipline, or equivalent experience5+ years of relevant experienceHands‑on experience with laboratory automation and automated experimental systems, ideally in a screening environmentProficiency in Python or similar programming languagesExperience with system scheduling software, scripting, and basic database conceptsStrong troubleshooting skills and comfort operating complex, integrated systemsExcellent written and verbal communication skillsHighly Desirable SkillsExperience with chemistry-enabling or automated synthesis workflowsFamiliarity with liquid handling, acoustic transfer, analytical integration, and microplate‑based systemsExposure to labintheloop or closed‑loop experimentationExperience interfacing automation systems with data pipelines or AI/ML toolsSalary Range$93,800 - $174,200 per yearCompensation and BenefitsYour 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.To learn more about the culture, rewards and benefits we offer our people click here.EEO StatementThe 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 accommodationsThe 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.Skills DesiredApplication SoftwareAutomationAutomation TestingControl SystemDebuggingEngineeringHMI (Human-Machine Interface)PLC (Programmable Logic Controller)Problem Solving SkillsProgramming LanguagesPython (Programming Language)Robotic Process Automation (RPA)RoboticsSoftware TestingTechnical SupportTest AutomationTest CasesTest EngineerVB (Visual Basic)#J-18808-Ljbffr