Principal Software Automation Engineer

MSD Careers • Gaithersburg, MD

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

This role is responsible for the design and programming of high-performance automation systems used in the assembly, inspection, and reagent dispensing of microplate test kits and microfluidic assay cartridges, and other emerging products. The position works closely with cross-functional teams—including R&D, Manufacturing, and Quality Assurance to support new product development and enhance current manufacturing capabilities through automation. Key responsibilities include configuring, validating, and troubleshooting automation hardware and software to ensure reliable system performance and scalability.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering or other related science or engineering discipline is required.
• A minimum of seven years of experience in automation equipment software design.
• Prior experience with industrial robots, motors, controllers, and/or digital and analog sensors is required.
• A minimum of seven years of programming experience using C# .Net or any OOP (Java, C++, etc.) in agile teams is required.
• Alternatively minimum seven years of experience with PLCs, programming with ladder logic, or structured text is required.
• Experience with XML, SQL, industrial networking, communication protocols, GUI design and database management is required.
• Experience with MATLAB and scripting languages is required.
• Hardware/software integration experience is required.
• Demonstrated ability to develop, integrate and validate systems, in a GMP, ISO or other regulated production environment for pharmaceuticals, biotech or medical devices manufacturing is required.
• Ability to work independently, as an effective team member, and with all levels of the company.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience with machine vision and image processing is preferred.
• Experience with automation platforms such as Tecan, Hamilton, etc. is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of new software to control manufacturing and research and development equipment.
• Oversee all maintenance and updates of existing software.
• Ensure close collaboration with cross-functional teams to support the automation needs of new product development.
• Configure, validate, and troubleshoot automation software and hardware.
• Review, revise and edit requirement and technical documents including release notes and work instructions.
• Participate in design and code review and milestone reviews.
• Interact with outside vendors to source equipment and components.
• Support R&D and other departments in new product development.
• Support existing equipment and software.
• Analyze current processes and equipment and create proposals for improvement to be presented to upper management.
• Design and lead development of new solutions for improving manufacturing quality and capacity.
• Manage project schedules and timelines.
• Mentor other staff members on automation software development processes.
• Perform any other engineering function as assigned.

Benefits

• medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with prescription benefits.
• 401(k) plan with company matching
• flexible spending accounts
• company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance
• group life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance.
• paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid holidays, and paid parental leave
• employee assistance program.
• fitness club membership contribution
• pet insurance
• identity theft protection
• home and auto insurance discounts
• optional supplemental life insurance.

What This Job Offers

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