Digital Manufacturing Tech Lead/Surgical Robotics - OTTAVA

Johnson & Johnson RAD (Robotics and Digital) is seeking an innovative Digital Manufacturing Tech Lead to spearhead the design, implementation, and optimization of our next-generation smart factory capabilities in support of the OTTAVA Surgical Robotic Platform. Job Function Supply Chain Engineering Job Sub Function Automation Engineering Job Category Scientific/Technology Job Location Santa Clara, California, United States of America Purpose Johnson & Johnson RAD (Robotics and Digital) is seeking an innovative Digital Manufacturing Tech Lead to spearhead the design, implementation, and optimization of our next-generation smart factory capabilities. This role will drive technology strategy, oversee engineering execution, and champion digital transformation by leveraging Industry 4.0 methodologies, including advanced automation, data analytics, IIoT, and AI-enabled manufacturing solutions. The successful candidate will deliver scalable, sustainable, and intelligent manufacturing systems that improve quality, efficiency, and agility in production. Key Responsibilities Defining and leading the digital manufacturing technology strategy aligned with smart factory, Industry 4.0, and business objectives. Define measurable KPIs and track program impact, ensuring scalability across technical programs. Serving as the principal technical assessor for digital manufacturing systems, including MES, Cloud platform, digital twins, advanced process control, Industry IoT, and manufacturing data platforms. Responsible for reusable architecture, standards, and technology roadmap implementations. Driving the architecture, design, and deployment of connected manufacturing solutions that integrate shop‑floor systems (equipment, PLCs) with enterprise platforms (ERP, PLM, analytics, cloud, WMS). Leading and mentoring a core team of engineers, providing technical direction, design reviews, and best‑practice guidance. Collaborate closely with manufacturing engineering, operation, quality, J&J Technology, cybersecurity, and othersupply chain teams to deliver end‑to‑end, compliant digital solutions. Collaborate with J&J Technology team on data governance, cybersecurity, and system reliability standards for manufacturing systems in a Medical Device regulated environment. Identifying and piloting emerging technologies (AI/ML, agentic AI, advanced analytics, digital twins, edge computing) to improve yield, productivity, quality, and time‑to‑market. Managing partners and system integrator relationships, including technical evaluations, solution selection, and delivery oversight. Stay ahead of emerging Industry 4.0 trends and recommend adoption where strategic advantage can be gained. Qualifications Required: Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s or PhD preferred in Engineering, Computer Science, Manufacturing, Automation, or a related technical field. 8+ years of experience in manufacturing systems, automation, or digital manufacturing, with senior technical leadership experience in Industry 4.0 environments. Deep hands‑on expertise with MES platforms, manufacturing data architectures, IIoT integrations, and shop‑floor‑to‑cloud connectivity. Demonstrated skill in applying Industry 4.0 methodologies, including IIoT, connected assets, digital twins, advanced analytics, and edge/cloud computing in manufacturing environments. Strong understanding of smart factory concepts, digital twins, advanced process control, and data‑driven manufacturing. Demonstrated ability to lead complex, cross‑functional technical programs and influence without direct authority. Proven ability to communicate complex technical concepts to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders, including executives. Skilled in evaluating emerging technologies, vendors, and system integrators, and leading solution selection and implementation. Problem solving & systems thinking: comfort operating in ambiguous, evolving environments while driving clarity and technical direction. Experience managing technical delivery across pilots, scale‑up, and global deployment. Effective and proactive written, presentation, and verbal communication skills. Passion for mentoring engineers and building high‑performing, technically excellent teams. Preferred: Experience working in regulated manufacturing environments (e.g., medical devices, pharma, or other highly regulated industries) highly preferred. Creative, motivated, proactive, and focused on achieving results. Sound analytical reasoning and problem‑solving skills. Capability to resolve challenges, devise and implement strategies to validate crucial technological principles. Other May require up to 10% of domestic and/or international travel. EEO Statement Johnson & Johnson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by federal, state or local law. We actively seek qualified candidates who are protected veterans and individuals with disabilities as defined under VEVRAA and Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. Benefits and Compensation Base pay range: $142,000.00 to $215,449.00. Additional Description for Pay Transparency: Subject to the terms of their respective plans, employees and/or eligible dependents are eligible to participate in the following Company-sponsored employee benefit programs: medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short- and long-term disability, business accident insurance, and group legal insurance. Employees are eligible to participate in the Company’s consolidated retirement plan (pension) and savings plan (401(k)). This position is eligible to participate in the Company’s long-term incentive program. Employees are eligible for the following time off benefits: Vacation – 120 hours per calendar year; Sick time – 40 hours per calendar year; for employees who reside in the State of Washington – 56 hours per calendar year; Holiday pay, including Floating Holidays – 13 days per calendar year; Work, Personal and Family Time – up to 40 hours per calendar year; Parental Leave – 480 hours within one year of the birth/adoption/foster care of a child; Condolence Leave – 30 days for an immediate family member; 5 days for an extended family member; Caregiver Leave – 10 days; Volunteer Leave – 4 days; Military Spouse Time-Off – 80 hours. Additional information can be found through the link below: #J-18808-Ljbffr Dormont Manufacturing Co