Principal Automation Systems & Controls Engineer

Objective

The Principal Automation Systems & Controls Engineer is a senior technical leader responsible for the design, development, and implementation of advanced automation systems and manufacturing equipment used in the production of medical devices. This position combines hands-on engineering, system architecture leadership, and cross-functional collaboration to deliver robust, scalable manufacturing solutions. The Principal Engineer serves as the technical lead for automation and controls projects from concept through validation and production deployment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and drive automated process equipment and systems integration projects, including design, development, software programming, integration, and system qualification.
• Work in conjunction with site operations to develop user and functional requirements for manufacturing equipment and integration. Lead internal and external design reviews to ensure timely execution of project plans.
• Identify and recommend controls and automation improvements for current and emerging manufacturing platforms.
• Facilitate collaboration between internal resources and external suppliers to develop technical solutions for custom automated equipment.
• Develop and manage project charters, schedules, and detailed work plans to meet stated goals. Communicate project status to management on a regular basis.
• Work closely with Engineering, Quality, Regulatory, and Operations to successfully validate software systems, including writing and executing software test scripts.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in automation systems, controls engineering, and equipment development.
• Extensive experience developing automated equipment for regulated manufacturing environments (medical devices, pharmaceutical, or similar).
• Strong expertise in PLC programming; HMI/SCADA systems; motion control; industrial robotics; machine vision; industrial networks/fieldbus systems; and safety guarding.
• Experience with automation architecture, system integration, and complex equipment development.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing process development and automation design principles.