Senior Automation Engineer

About This Role

This role involves leading the design, implementation, and lifecycle management of automated control systems for manufacturing equipment and processes within a biopharmaceutical company. The Senior Automation Engineer will provide technical leadership in control strategies and process automation, enhancing operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of automated control systems for manufacturing equipment, utilities, and process skids, including control philosophy development, functional requirements specification, and detailed design documentation.
• Develop and maintain PLC programs, HMI applications, and SCADA systems for Allen Bradley, Siemens, and Emerson DeltaV platforms, ensuring adherence to GMP best practices.
• Architect, implement, and maintain automation solutions aligned with industry 4.0 initiatives, including integration with MES and data analytics platforms.
• Execute preventive maintenance activities, software patching, and system updates in accordance with change control procedures.
• Investigate and troubleshoot system alarms, faults, and performance degradation, implementing corrective and preventive actions.
• Support validation activities including IQ/OQ/PQ protocol execution, test script development, and documentation review for automation systems.
• Maintain system documentation including network diagrams, configuration specifications, standard operating procedures, and maintenance records.

Requirements

• 8+ years experience designing, programming, and supporting automated control systems in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or regulated manufacturing environments
• Familiarity with industrial networking protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus, OPC, BACnet) and network infrastructure
• Knowledge of validation lifecycle and IQ/OQ/PQ protocol execution for automated systems
• Experience with life cycle management of at least two of the following systems in a GMP environment: Allen Bradley PLCs and FT View, Emerson DeltaV or ThermoFisher TruBio, OSIsoft Pi Data Historian System, Tulip Manufacturing Operations System, Siemens Desigo CC, TiPSView Alarm Assessment System
• Experience with MES integration, batch record generation, and manufacturing data management systems (OSIsoft PI, Tulip, or similar)
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Effective communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of cross-functional project teams

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Chemical, Electrical, Mechanical, or related discipline) or equivalent technical degree
• Minimum 8+ years of progressive experience designing, programming, and supporting automated control systems in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or regulated manufacturing environments

Skills

* Required skills

Benefits