Principal Engineer, Robotics Controls

Moderna • Norwood, MA

23h • $158,600 - $285,500 • Onsite

About The Position

The Individual is responsible for the design, implementation, and integration of robotics control solutions supporting capital projects and deployment initiatives within Moderna’s 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.

Requirements

• Bachelor's 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

Nice To Haves

• Technical Project Management experience a plus

Responsibilities

• 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 Moderna’s 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

Benefits

• 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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Principal