Senior Engineer, Automation

Role Overview

The Senior Automation Engineer is responsible for the design, implementation, and lifecycle management of automated control systems for manufacturing equipment and processes. This position provides technical leadership in the development and optimization of control strategies, PLC programming, HMI/SCADA development, and process automation solutions.

Key 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 that align 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.

Experience & Skills

• 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.
• 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 the 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 TruBioOSIsoft Pi Data Historian System, Tulip Manufacturing Operations System, Siemens Desigo CCTiPSView Alarm Assessment System, and MES integration, batch record generation, and manufacturing data management systems (OSIsoft PI, Tulip, or similar).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with ability to diagnose complex system issues.
• Effective communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to work independently and as part of cross-functional project teams.

Work Environment

Primarily desk-based, generally in an office setting. Occasional tasks performed in a lab or manufacturing clean room environment. Must be able to lift desktop computers, small servers, switches, PLCs, and electrical components. May be required to work after-hours for OT emergencies or maintenance window activities.