Technical Operator
Thermo Fisher Scientific · Allentown, PA · 1 mo ago
On-siteProductFull-time
Work Schedule
- First Shift (Days) – Monday through Friday, 6:30 am – 2:45 pm
- Occasional weekends
Position Summary
The Senior Technical Operator is an advanced‑level role responsible for operating, troubleshooting, and optimizing high‑complexity manufacturing and packaging equipment in a cGMP environment. This position plays a critical role in equipment reliability, production efficiency, and the mentoring of junior operators and technicians. The Senior Technical Operator serves as a technical expert for production equipment and processes, provides hands‑on training, and collaborates with engineering and quality teams to drive process improvements and ensure regulatory compliance.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform advanced troubleshooting and root‑cause analysis on high‑speed manufacturing, packaging, and supporting equipment.
- Conduct complex preventative and predictive maintenance tasks, ensuring compliance with manufacturer and internal standards.
- Lead equipment changeovers and set‑ups, optimizing downtime and ensuring accuracy in product configurations.
- Collaborate with Engineering to recommend and implement process improvements for efficiency, safety, and quality enhancement.
- Maintain detailed maintenance and repair logs, ensuring compliance with cGMP documentation standards.
- Serve as subject‑matter expert (SME) for assigned equipment lines, assisting with capital project planning and validation activities.
- Mentor and train Technical Operators and other junior staff on troubleshooting, maintenance procedures, and cGMP best practices.
- Participate in continuous‑improvement initiatives (Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen) to reduce waste and improve throughput.
- Assist Quality and Safety teams with investigations, CAPAs, and risk assessments.
Education & Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Minimum 4 years of experience in a manufacturing, operations, or production environment; at least 3 years in a cGMP‑regulated facility preferred.
- Demonstrated experience in mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic troubleshooting.
- Preferred: Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in engineering technology, industrial maintenance, or a related field.
- Advanced training or certifications in maintenance technology, PLC programming, or Lean Six Sigma.
- Experience in pharmaceutical or medical‑device manufacturing.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude with proficiency in diagnosing and repairing complex automated systems.
- Skilled in using precision measuring devices and interpreting technical manuals, schematics, and diagrams.
- Knowledge of PLC‑based control systems and automated production equipment.
- Proficiency in technical writing, creating clear, concise, and accurate documentation.
- Ability to lead projects, mentor staff, and work cross‑functionally with Engineering, Quality, and Operations teams.
- Strong problem‑solving, decision‑making, and documentation skills.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift up to 50 lb and perform repetitive movements.
- Ability to stand, walk, and work in production environments for extended periods.
- Work may involve exposure to temperature‑controlled areas, noise, and production chemicals.
Compensation
- Competitive pay rate commensurate with senior‑level skills and experience.
- Additional shift differential for 2nd‑shift and 3rd‑shift positions.
- Annual performance‑based bonus.
- Annual merit performance‑based increase.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage effective Day 1.
- Paid time off and designated paid holidays.
- Retirement savings plan.
- Tuition reimbursement.
- Employee referral bonus.
- Opportunities for career advancement into leadership or technical specialist roles.