Senior Principal Workflow Automation Expert
About The Position
The Workflow Automation Engineer drives workflow transformation by converting manual and fragmented processes into intelligent, automated, and scalable solutions. Working closely with scientists, process owners, and business stakeholders, the role uses workflow platforms, integrations, data, robotics, and AI to improve efficiency, reliability, compliance, and user experience. It balances technical engineering expertise with business partnership to deliver solutions that accelerate scientific and operational outcomes. The position is based in San Diego, USA, with hybrid working. Novartis is unable to offer relocation support, so applicants should apply only if the location is accessible to them.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, data science, life sciences, or a related discipline, or equivalent professional experience demonstrating substantial technical and engineering expertise.
- At least four years of relevant experience designing and delivering technology solutions that improve workflows, such as software applications, systems integrations, robotic process automation, laboratory automation, or AI-enabled solutions.
- Proficiency in at least one programming or scripting language, with experience integrating applications, services, or data through APIs or other integration methods.
- Demonstrated ability to translate user and business needs into reliable, secure, and maintainable solutions, including appropriate testing, documentation, and deployment practices.
- Hands-on experience applying AI, such as machine learning, generative AI, or agentic systems, to automate or improve workflows, with an understanding of its limitations and how to evaluate results.
- Ability to guide technical decisions, communicate clearly with technical and non-technical audiences, and influence stakeholders across teams without formal authority.
Nice To Haves
- Experience working in life sciences, pharmaceutical, or similarly regulated environments.
- Experience mentoring or developing others in automation, process engineering, software engineering, or artificial intelligence.
Responsibilities
- Partner with scientific experts, process owners, and cross-functional stakeholders to identify valuable automation opportunities.
- Apply systems thinking to analyze, model, and redesign processes for automation readiness.
- Translate business and user needs into clear requirements, product features, and a compelling value case.
- Design and integrate solutions using appropriate combinations of workflow platforms, software, APIs, data, cloud services, robotics, and AI.
- Ensure solutions align with enterprise platforms and applicable security, compliance, and governance standards.
- Establish reusable components, engineering practices, frameworks, and documentation that improve delivery quality and maintainability.
- Partner with process owners and users to support adoption and measure improvements in efficiency, reliability, and user experience.
- Explain technical approaches and trade-offs clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.
Benefits
- Performance-based bonus or cash incentive.
- Eligibility to be considered for annual equity awards, depending on the level of the role.
- Insurance plans, including health, life, and disability benefits.
- Retirement plans, including a 401(k) with company contribution and match.
- Wellbeing resources and global recognition programs.
- Flexible and hybrid working options, where possible.
- Minimum 14 weeks of paid parental leave.
- Vacation, personal days, holidays, and other leaves.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
