Principal Automation Engineer

Principal Automation Engineer - Warehouse AutomationWelcome to Holly Springs, North Carolina—home to Roche/Genentech's largest-ever investment: a $2B greenfield start-up where next-generation technology, high-performing teams and operational excellence converge to create the global standard for high-volume, highly-efficient drug product manufacturing.The facility's core is defined by innovation—leveraging advanced automation, robotics, digital tools, real-time data analytics, and simple, streamlined processes to produce the highest quality medicines. This plant meets today's demand for CVRM (Cardiovascular, Renal, and Metabolism) medicines and is scalable to grow with the portfolio, which focuses on next-generation metabolic medicines specifically targeting the global obesity epidemic and Type 2 diabetes. This is a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment with a high level of accountability, with planned launch in 2028.The Principal Automation Engineer - Warehouse Automation is responsible for the technical integrity, reliability, and optimization of the automated material handling systems within the Holly Springs facility. This role serves as the subject matter expert for the Körber K.One.X (Warehouse Control System), high-density automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS systems), and the automated guided vehicle (AGV) fleet. You will bridge the gap between physical hardware and the digital warehouse layer, ensuring that pharmaceutical stock moves seamlessly and safely through the production lifecycle while maintaining strict GxP compliance. The role will also have responsibilities for robotics fleet management system that may be shared with site robotics engineer. Leading automation impacting projects with large and/or complex scope and driving strategic initiatives to improve business processes are also expected.Key Responsibilities:Operational system maintenance (AS/RS & WCS)AGV fleet & traffic managementIT/OT bridge & data integrityWho You AreBachelor's degree in chemical, mechanical, electrical, or computer science or a related discipline and 8 years of applicable automation and/or instrument and control system experience preferably majority in drug product function. Or, master's degree in engineering or a related discipline and 6 years of applicable automation and/or instrument and control system experience preferably majority in drug product function.5 years in the pharmaceutical/biotech industry/GMP experience is highly preferred.24X7 on call support, participate in an on-call environment to meet business continuity requirements, including weekends and holidays as required.Technical Skills:Proficiency in troubleshooting PLCs (Siemens TIA Portal or Rockwell Automation) and their communication protocols (Profinet/EtherNet/IP).Strong understanding of SAP EWM or similar WMS interfaces (IDocs, queues, and RFC calls).Familiarity with AGV navigation technologies (Laser, Natural, or Magnetic) and FMS software.Knowledge of GAMP5 standards and 21 CFR Part 11 requirements is highly preferred.Soft Skills:Analytical mindset with the ability to perform root-cause analysis under production pressure.Excellent communication skills to translate complex technical issues for cross-functional stakeholders in logistics and quality.Physical Requirements:Ability to work in a high-density warehouse environment, which may include working at heights or in proximity to moving automated machinery.On-call support for 24/7 warehouse operations.The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of Holly Springs, North Carolina is $95,200 - $176,800. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and company performance. This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at the link provided below.Genentech is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of protected veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.