Senior Autoclave Validation Technician

Reports to: Field Service Manager

About the role

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Autoclave Validation & Preventive Maintenance Technician to support the installation, qualification, validation, preventive maintenance, calibration, troubleshooting, and repair of laboratory and production autoclaves. This position will primarily focus on Astell autoclaves but will also support sterilization equipment from other leading manufacturers in laboratory, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, healthcare, research, and industrial environments. The role requires frequent travel to customer sites and direct interaction with laboratory managers, validation teams, maintenance personnel, and quality professionals.

Responsibilities

Validation Services

• Perform autoclave qualification and validation activities, including:
  • Installation Qualification (IQ)
  • Operational Qualification (OQ)
  • Performance Qualification (PQ)
• Execute thermal mapping studies using data loggers, thermocouples, and validation software
• Conduct heat distribution, heat penetration, and sterilization cycle verification studies
• Analyze validation data and prepare comprehensive validation reports
• Verify cycle performance and sterilization efficacy in accordance with customer protocols and regulatory requirements
• Support customer audits and compliance activities related to sterilization equipment

Preventive Maintenance & Service

• Perform scheduled preventive maintenance on Astell autoclaves and other sterilization equipment
• Inspect, clean, calibrate, and replace wear components including:
  • Door seals and gaskets
  • Solenoid valves
  • Pressure transducers
• Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and control system failures
• Diagnose and repair issues involving:
  • Steam generation systems
  • Heating elements
  • PLC controls
  • HMI interfaces
  • Vacuum systems
  • Temperature and pressure control systems
• Perform emergency service calls and corrective maintenance as required
• Work independently and manage multiple service assignments

Customer Support

• Provide operator and maintenance training to customers
• Serve as the primary technical contact during service visits
• Document all service activities through detailed field service reports
• Communicate equipment performance findings and recommend corrective actions
• Maintain strong customer relationships through professional service delivery

Requirements

• Minimum 3–5 years of experience servicing, maintaining, validating, or calibrating autoclaves, sterilizers, laboratory equipment, or related thermal process systems
• Experience performing thermal validation studies and using temperature mapping equipment
• Strong understanding of sterilization principles and autoclave operation
• Mechanical and electrical troubleshooting experience
• Ability to read and interpret:
  • Electrical schematics
  • Wiring diagrams
  • P&IDs
  • Technical service manuals
• Experience using diagnostic and calibration equipment
• Strong computer skills, including report generation and data analysis
• Excellent communication and customer service skills
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel regularly

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience servicing Astell autoclaves
• Experience with autoclaves from manufacturers such as:
  • Astell Scientific
  • Tuttnauer
  • Priorclave
  • Consolidated Sterilizer Systems
  • Getinge
  • STERIS
• Knowledge of GMP, GLP, FDA, USP, ISO, and pharmaceutical validation requirements
• Experience in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, healthcare, research laboratory, or regulated manufacturing environments
• Technical degree or certification in electronics, instrumentation, mechatronics, industrial maintenance, or a related field
• Familiarity with PLC-based control systems and industrial instrumentation
• Experience with steam systems and utility equipment

Travel Requirements

• Travel up to 50–75%, depending on customer demand and geographic territory
• Ability to travel overnight for multi-day customer projects
• Occasional weekend work to support customer validation schedules and facility shutdowns
• Potential for limited international travel

Desired Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate enjoys working independently in customer-facing environments and has a passion for technical problem-solving. They possess a strong understanding of sterilization components and practices, including:

• Temperature probes
• Steam traps
• Vacuum pumps
• Safety devices
• Water treatment components

They are meticulous in documentation and take pride in helping customers maintain compliance while maximizing equipment reliability and performance.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Performance-based bonus program
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Company-paid travel expenses
• Laptop, phone, tools, and calibration equipment
• Manufacturer and validation training programs
• Career advancement opportunities within a growing technical service organization