Senior Engineer I, Automation

The Role

Moderna is seeking an Individual to support the implementation, optimization, and lifecycle management of process automation systems supporting Individualized Neoantigen Therapies (INT) across Moderna’s manufacturing network.

This role will help deploy and continuously improve automation platforms across both new and existing manufacturing facilities. The engineer will collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver scalable, compliant, and integrated automation solutions that advance Moderna’s smart manufacturing initiatives and vision for lights-out manufacturing.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on, proactive automation engineer with strong technical expertise, a collaborative mindset, and a passion for learning and implementing new technologies in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

This position is based in Moderna’s Marlborough, MA offices.

Here’s What You’ll Do

Automation Systems Implementation & Support

Support the implementation and expansion of process automation capabilities across new and existing manufacturing facilities

Support the development, maintenance, and improvement of DCS (DeltaV), PLCs (AB/B&R), SCADA systems, DHS (AVEVA PI), Robotics, VMware, including adoption of new technologies and future system upgrades

Assist with troubleshooting, optimization, and lifecycle support of process automation systems

Participate in commissioning, startup, FAT, SAT, and system deployment activities as required

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Collaborate with Manufacturing, Facilities, MSAT, Quality, IT Infrastructure, Process Engineering, and other cross-functional teams to define business and technical requirements

Support integration of automation systems with enterprise platforms including Operational Data Hub (ODH), Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), VMware, and analytics environments

Standards, Platforms & Continuous Improvement

Contribute to the implementation and maintenance of plant floor Automation Design Guidelines and standards

Help standardize reusable automation aligned with ISA-95 and ISA-88 principles

Identify opportunities to improve processes, equipment, systems, and infrastructure through operational excellence initiatives and implementation of AI technologies.

Promote an AI/ML-forward mindset in system design and data utilization

Own Project Delivery & Lifecycle Management

Lead CAPEX projects from concept through commissioning and transition into OPEX

Provide ongoing lifecycle support for automation systems across Moderna facilities

Provide On-call and floor support

Validation & Compliance

Coordinate and support validation activities in collaboration with Manufacturing, Engineering, QA, and CQV teams

Support compliance activities related to cGMP, GAMP, CSV, and regulatory requirements

Develop and maintain automation documentation including URS, FRS, CDS, SOPs, and validation protocols

Support risk assessments, testing activities, and changing control processes

Here’s What You’ll Need (Basic Qualifications)

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related technical discipline

Minimum of 5–8 years of experience in pharmaceutical or biotechnology.

Understanding of smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 concepts, ISA-95 and ISA-88 industry standards

Strong experience in designing and supporting Emerson DeltaV DCS process control systems including continuous and batch processes.

Experience working with industrial protocols including HART, Ethernet I/P, OPC and classic IO.

Hands-on experience with middleware tools (e.g., Kepware, OPC servers)

Familiarity with PLCs, and SCADA systems, Robotics and VMware

Understanding of RESTful APIs and system integrations

Working knowledge of cGMP manufacturing operations and practices

Knowledge of GAMP, Computer System Validation (CSV), and regulatory compliance requirements

Background in CSV and regulatory compliance (21 CFR Part 11, Annex 11)

Experience developing automation documentation including URS, FRS, CDS, and validation protocols (IQ/OQ/PQ)

Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in fast-paced manufacturing environments

Here’s What You’ll Bring to the Table (Preferred Qualifications)

Being proactive and self-motivated

Motivation to lead projects and drive initiatives to completion

Motivation and curiosity to learn new technologies and continuously improve

Creative, analytical, and strong problem-solving skills

Ability to work independently and make sound and timely decisions to achieve expected results

Ability to react under pressure to any given situation that may arise, in a professional manner and with positive results, in support of a multi-location environment

Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Collaborative mindset with a strong commitment to quality and operational excellence

A desire to make an impact as part of a high-growth, transformational company that is Bold, Relentless, Curious, and Collaborative

Pay & Benefits

At Moderna, we believe that when you feel your best, you can do your best work. That’s why our benefits and well-being resources are designed to support you - at work, at home, and everywhere in between.

Competitive healthcare, plus voluntary benefit programs to support your unique needs

A holistic approach to well-being, with access to fitness, mindfulness, and mental health support

Family planning benefits, including fertility, adoption, and surrogacy support

Generous paid time off, including vacation, volunteer days, sabbatical, global recharge days, and a discretionary year-end shutdown

Savings and investments to help you plan for the future

Location-specific perks and extras

The salary range for this role is $121,600.00 - $194,500.00. This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An individual’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, performance, and business or organizational needs.

The successful candidate may be eligible for an annual discretionary bonus, other incentive compensation, or equity award, subject to company plan eligibility criteria and individual performance.

About Moderna

Since our founding in 2010, we have aspired to build the leading mRNA technology platform, the infrastructure to reimagine how medicines are created and delivered, and a world-class team. We believe in giving our people a platform to change medicine and an opportunity to change the world.

By living our mission, values, and mindsets every day, our people are the driving force behind our scientific progress and our culture. Together, we are creating a culture of belonging and building an organization that cares deeply for our patients, our employees, the environment, and our communities.

We are proud to have been recognized as a Science Magazine Top Biopharma Employer, a Fast Company Best Workplace for Innovators, and a Great Place to Work in the U.S.

If you want to make a difference and join a team that is changing the future of medicine, we invite you to visit modernatx.com/careers to learn more about our current opportunities.

Our Working Model

As we build our company, we have always believed an in-person culture is critical to our success. Moderna champions the significant benefits of in-office collaboration by embracing a 70/30 work model. This 70% in-office structure helps to foster a culture rich in innovation, teamwork, and direct mentorship. Join us in shaping a world where every interaction is an opportunity to learn, contribute, and make a meaningful impact.

Moderna is a smoke-free, alcohol-free, and drug-free work environment.

Equal Opportunities

Moderna is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. We consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements.

Accommodations

We’re focused on attracting, retaining, developing, and advancing our employees. By cultivating a workplace that values diverse experiences, backgrounds, and ideas, we create an environment where every employee can contribute their best.

Moderna is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to qualified job applicants with disabilities. Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should contact the Accommodations team at leavesandaccommodations@modernatx.com .

Export Control Notice This position may involve access to technology or data that is subject to U.S. export control laws, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). As such, employment is contingent upon the applicant’s ability to access export-controlled information in accordance with U.S. law. Due to the nature of the work and regulatory requirements, only individuals who qualify as U.S. persons (citizens, permanent residents, asylees, or refugees) are eligible for this position. For this role Moderna is unable to sponsor non-U.S. persons to apply for an export control license. #LI-SB2