Senior Robotics Specialist (DDIT OPS) – Hybrid

About the role

Novartis is looking for a Senior Robotics Specialist (DDIT OPS Robotics Expert) in Ljubljana, working on a hybrid basis. The role defines and drives the site robotics strategy, portfolio and roadmap, and leads the evaluation, deployment and scaling of robotics solutions across manufacturing, laboratories, warehouses and support operations. It works without direct reports, coordinating internal experts and external partners to deliver standardized, compliant and scalable solutions.

Key responsibilities

• Manage the site robotics strategy and development plan, aligned with business needs, global standards and market maturity
• Identify, assess and prioritize use cases in production, labs, warehouses and support functions
• Lead implementation from concept, feasibility study and pilot to validated deployment, handover and reuse on other sites
• Coordinate stakeholders from production, engineering, quality, operations, procurement and suppliers, including system integrators
• Define user requirements (URS), reference architectures, technical standards and solution catalogs
• Evaluate technologies such as AMR/AGV systems, cobots, machine vision, automated inspection and AI-based robotics
• Advise IT/OT teams and site leadership on architecture, integration, risks and investment priorities
• Ensure compliance with GxP, data integrity, quality, safety and OT cybersecurity
• Prepare business cases, manage project portfolios and budgets, and report on value created

Required profile

• University degree in information technology, engineering (robotics, mechatronics, automation) or a related field
• At least 5 years of international experience in IT, industrial robotics, automation, manufacturing engineering or IT/OT environments
• Proven experience deploying robotics or advanced automation solutions in production
• Experience in regulated environments (GxP, validation, OT cybersecurity)
• Experience launching standardized solutions across multiple sites and active business English
• Preferred: pharmaceutical, biotech or life sciences background; knowledge of Industry 4.0 concepts

Required skills

• User requirement specifications, technical standards and supplier evaluation
• Industrial control systems, machine vision, autonomous systems and robotics architectures
• Hands-on experience with AMR, AGV, cobots, robotic material handling, machine vision, automated quality control and lab automation

What we offer

• Expected annual base salary in Slovenia of 32,060 to 59,540 EUR
• Annual performance bonus of 12% of annual pay
• Vacation allowance and business success award
• Voluntary supplementary pension insurance
• Care Connect mental health support program
• Transport, meals and other statutory benefits

The employment relationship is permanent with a 6-month probation period. Applications are submitted by CV in Slovenian and English.