Lab Automation Engineer - Systems Integration and Robotics

Johnson & Johnson Johnson & Johnson · Pharma · Beerse, Antwerp, Belgium

Johnson & Johnson is seeking a Lab Automation Engineer specializing in systems integration and robotics for their Chemical Process R&D organization. The role involves designing, building, and deploying advanced lab automation systems, integrating third-party equipment, and leading projects from concept to deployment. The engineer will collaborate with chemists, microbiologists, and vendors, troubleshoot complex issues, and identify new automation opportunities. A Master's or PhD in a relevant engineering field with proven experience in automation systems integration, basic programming skills (Python, PLC, robot scripting), and experience with vendors is required.

What you'd actually do

  1. Design and build integrated lab automation systems from third-party equipment and custom components for different applications across process R&D (organic synthesis, work‑up, and biocatalysis). You will do this in close collaboration with chemists, microbiologists, engineers, system vendors, and commercial integrators.
  2. Lead system integration (mechanical layout, interfaces, safety, and control architecture).
  3. Lead detailed design, build, and deployment phases in close collaboration with vendors and integrators. This includes ownership of user requirement specification (URS), factory acceptance testing (FAT), and site acceptance testing (SAT).
  4. Troubleshoot complex issues across hardware and control layers.
  5. Identify new automation opportunities and pilot new solutions.

Skills

Required

  • MSc in mechanical engineering, mechatronics, robotics, industrial automation, or other relevant domain.
  • Proven experience building and integrating automation systems.
  • Experience with system design, interfaces, debugging, and debottlenecking of complex systems.
  • Basic programming skills (e.g., Python, PLC, robot scripting).

Nice to have

  • Experience working with vendors and/or integrators is a strong plus.
  • Experience with CAD, rapid prototyping, and fabrication is highly desirable.
  • Pragmatic mindset and enjoys working as a generalist across multiple domains (hardware, software, IT/OT, safety, scientific application).