Principal Engineer, Robotics Controls
Norwood, MN - USA
Job Summary
The Role
The Individual is responsible for the design implementation and integration of robotics control solutions supporting capital projects and deployment initiatives within Modernas manufacturing network with a primary focus on Individualized Neoantigen Therapy (INT).
The candidate should have strong knowledge of the application of robotics and automation in the life sciences industry with the ability to generate review and approve project documentation such as functional specifications machine layout drawings and logic diagrams as well as execute Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) at vendor locations Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) and support commissioning activities.
The incumbent will be expected to learn and understand manufacturing processes and apply automation technologies to increase the level of robotics and controls integration resulting in more efficient repeatable and reliable processing. Prior experience in GMP fill and finish personalized medicine or high-mix manufacturing environments is highly desirable.
This role extends beyond traditional capital project execution to support the development of standardized scalable robotics control architectures across sites. The PE-RC will maintain timeliness accuracy and thoroughness throughout the project lifecycle while supporting multiple concurrent initiatives.
The candidate will work closely with vendors system integrators Digital teams and internal stakeholders to deliver robust compliant and integrated robotics control solutions. Travel to support global project execution could be up to 25% during critical phases.
This individual may serve as the overall project lead or technical lead depending on project scope and will be expected to manage multiple contractors and a portfolio of technical projects simultaneously.
Heres What Youll Do
Lead the design and implementation of robotics control solutions (PLC HMI SCADA) for projects at both site and global levels
Define and promote standardized controls architectures to enable scalable robotics deployment across INT and broader CMC
Proactively identify risks develop mitigation strategies and communicate effectively with stakeholders while driving timelines
Partner with end users and cross-functional teams to propose and implement robotics solutions that enhance efficiency repeatability and reliability
Support FAT SAT commissioning and validation activities in alignment with GAMP and GxP requirements
Collaborate with Digital teams to ensure a robust optimized and integrated data and system landscape (1st/3rd party software and IIoT)
Develop and deploy innovative solutions that contribute to achieving Modernas smart factory and sustainability goals
Establish and provide technical support services for issue resolution and system optimization
Mentor and develop technical expertise within the robotics and automation community
Apply an operational excellence mindset to identify and implement opportunities to optimize processes through advanced automation technologies
Ensure safety compliance and data integrity are prioritized in the design delivery and maintenance of all systems
Heres What Youll Need (Basic Qualifications)
Bachelors degree (or equivalent) in Electrical Engineering Computer Science or related field
Minimum 10 years of experience designing implementing and supporting industrial automation and robotics systems in a GMP environment
Proven track record in delivering smart factory automation or robotics initiatives
Strong experience in PLC programming (Rockwell/Siemens) HMI SCADA and motion control systems
Experience delivering capital projects as part of a design and execution team
Experience in fill and finish packaging or high-mix/personalized manufacturing environments
Ability to provide technical direction and oversight to external design firms and system integrators
Experience supporting manufacturing operations and troubleshooting complex automation systems
Strong understanding of shop floor equipment lab systems utility systems and IIoT-enabled devices
Experience with industrial systems such as process control systems historians application servers and cross-platform communication
Experience evaluating selecting and integrating digital systems and automation technologies
Demonstrated ability to define scope and manage complex technology initiatives
Strong knowledge of GAMP GxP and data integrity requirements
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced high-growth and highly collaborative environment
Technical Project Management experience a plus
This position is site-based requiring you to be at Modernas site full-time. This position is not eligible for remote work
Pay & Benefits
At Moderna we believe that when you feel your best you can do your best work. Thats why our US benefits and global well-being resources are designed to support youat work at home and everywhere in between.
Best-in-class healthcare coverage plus voluntary benefit programs to support your unique needs
A holistic approach to well-being with access to fitness mindfulness and mental health support
Family planning benefits including fertility adoption and surrogacy support
Generous paid time off including vacation volunteer days sabbatical global recharge days and a discretionary year-end shutdown
Savings and investment opportunities to help you plan for the future
Location-specific perks and extras
About Moderna
Since our founding in 2010 we have aspired to build the leading mRNA technology platform the infrastructure to reimagine how medicines are created and delivered and a world-class team. We believe in giving our people a platform to change medicine and an opportunity to change the world.
By living our mission values and mindsets every day our people are the driving force behind our scientific progress and our culture. Together we are creating a culture of belonging and building an organization that cares deeply for our patients our employees the environment and our communities.
We are proud to have been recognized as a Science Magazine Top Biopharma Employer a Fast Company Best Workplace for Innovators and a Great Place to Work in the U.S.
If you want to make a difference and join a team that is changing the future of medicine we invite you to visit to learn more about our current opportunities.
Our Working Model
As we build our company we have always believed an in-person culture is critical to our success. Moderna champions the significant benefits of in-office collaboration by embracing a 70/30 work model. This 70% in-office structure helps to foster a culture rich in innovation teamwork and direct mentorship. Join us in shaping a world where every interaction is an opportunity to learn contribute and make a meaningful impact.
Moderna is a smoke-free alcohol-free and drug-free work environment.
Equal Opportunities
Moderna is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a persons race color sex gender identity or expression age religion national origin ancestry or citizenship ethnicity disability military or protected veteran status genetic information sexual orientation marital or familial status or any other personal characteristic protected under applicable is a place where everyone can grow. If you meet the Basic Qualifications for the role and you would be excited to contribute to our mission every day please apply!
Moderna is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. We consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories consistent with legal requirements.
Accommodations
Were focused on attracting retaining developing and advancing our employees. By cultivating a workplace that values diverse experiences backgrounds and ideas we create an environment where every employee can contribute their best.
Moderna is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to qualified job applicants with disabilities. Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should contact the Accommodations team at .
Export Control Notice This position may involve access to technology or data that is subject to U.S. export control laws including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). As such employment is contingent upon the applicants ability to access export-controlled information in accordance with U.S. law. Due to the nature of the work and regulatory requirements only individuals who qualify as U.S. persons (citizens permanent residents asylees or refugees) are eligible for this position. For this role Moderna is unable to sponsor non-U.S. persons to apply for an export control license. #LI-KH1-
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About Company
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