Robotics Software Engineer - Cell Therapy Automation

Introduction

Do you have a passion for IT, automation, and robotics? Would you like to join a winning team supporting the next generation of Cell Therapy manufacturing in one of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies? If you thrive in an environment of innovation and change in a fast-growing organization, then this could be the role for you. AstraZeneca is a global, science‑led, patient‑focused biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialization of prescription medicines for some of the world's most serious diseases.

Accountability

In this role, you will be responsible for delivering reliable IT and software engineering support across the full lifecycle of robotic cluster deployment—from Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) through Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), installation qualification, operational qualification, and ongoing production operations. You will manage integration between robotic systems and enterprise platforms (MES, LIMS, ELN), implement cybersecurity controls aligned with DoD Zero Trust architecture and ISA‑62443 standards, and collaborate cross‑functionally with supply chain, quality, engineering, and external vendor teams. You will serve as the primary technical interface between AstraZeneca IT and the robotics vendor's software and automation engineering teams, ensuring that platform readiness milestones are met and that all software licensing, data integrity, and system availability requirements are fulfilled.

Typical responsibilities

• IT/OT Integration & Architecture : Design and maintain robust OT/IT network segmentation, low‑latency connectivity for real‑time robotic control, and high‑availability infrastructure targeting 99.99% uptime for production‑critical automation systems.
• Cybersecurity & Compliance : Implement and enforce cybersecurity measures including Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), firewall segmentation, endpoint protection, patch management, SIEM integration, and audit logging in alignment with DoD Zero Trust Reference Architecture, ISA‑62443, and FDA 21 CFR Part 11.
• Software & Automation Support : Support automation programming for robotic platforms, resolve software licensing issues, and coordinate with vendor engineering teams on software development lifecycle (SDLC) activities.
• System Integration : Ensure seamless integration of robotic clusters with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) such as PAS‑X or TULIP, and with LIMS & ELN platforms to guarantee end‑to‑end traceability and electronic batch record compliance.
• Data Management & Traceability : Ensure all data acquisition systems support electronic records and electronic signatures per 21 CFR Part 11, maintain high‑fidelity audit trails, and enable capture of process parameters, batch data, and material genealogy.
• IoT & Environmental Monitoring : Support IoT sensor integration for real‑time environmental and equipment monitoring, configure automated alerting and escalation protocols, and maintain alarm management systems.
• Disaster Recovery & Business Continuity : Develop, test, and maintain disaster recovery plans for cloud‑based and on‑premise software/data systems; define and meet Recovery Time Objectives (RTO) and Recovery Point Objectives (RPO).
• Vendor Collaboration & FAT/SAT Support : Serve as the IT point of contact during FAT/SAT execution, support qualification activities, manage deviations and mitigation plans related to IT readiness, and ensure documentation alignment with project milestones.
• Cloud Platform Management : Support and manage cloud infrastructure associated with the robotic cluster platform (estimated at $2.5M annual cloud fee per cluster), ensuring security, cost efficiency, and performance.

Essential requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Software Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field (master’s degree preferred).
• 5+ years experience in IT/OT environments supporting automation, robotics, or advanced manufacturing systems.
• Strong knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks including Zero Trust architecture, ISA‑62443, and NIST standards.
• Demonstrated experience with MES platforms (e.g., PAS‑X or TULIP), LIMS, and ELN systems integration.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, or C#, and familiarity with robotic frameworks (ROS, UR platforms, or similar).
• Working knowledge of FDA 21 CFR Part 11, GxP compliance requirements, and pharmaceutical data integrity principles.
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP) and IoT integration in manufacturing environments.
• Strong project management skills, including the ability to manage multiple concurrent workstreams, vendor timelines, and cross‑functional dependencies.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to translate complex technical topics for non‑technical stakeholders.
• Comfort with risk and ambiguous situations in a rapidly evolving, first‑of‑its‑kind program.

Desirable qualifications

• Experience working in advanced manufacturing systems and environments.
• Familiarity with ISPE GAMP 5 validation framework for computerized systems.
• Experience supporting FAT/SAT and IQ/OQ qualification activities.
• Knowledge of DevSecOps practices and Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe).
• Understanding of SEC cybersecurity disclosure requirements (17 CFR Parts 229, 232, 239, 240, 249).

Benefits

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $122,985.60 - $184,478.40. Positions offer eligibility for various incentives—including short‑term incentive bonuses, equity‑based awards for salaried roles, and commissions for sales roles. Benefits include qualified retirement programs, paid time off (vacation, holiday, and leave), and health, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms of the applicable plans.

Equal Employment Opportunity

AstraZeneca is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.