Automation Engineer
JOB SUMMARY
The Automation Engineer is responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and optimization of automated systems and equipment in manufacturing or laboratory environments. This role ensures reliability, efficiency, and compliance of automation solutions by working cross-functionally to support production, troubleshoot issues, and deliver system enhancements. The Automation Engineer also plays an important role in project execution, system upgrades, and technology integration.
MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES
Design, develop, test, and commission automation solutions for process, packaging, utility, or laboratory systems.
Configure, program, and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, DCS, and other industrial automation hardware and software.
Support manufacturing operations by diagnosing automation system issues, resolving breakdowns, and implementing corrective actions promptly.
Develop and maintain technical documentation for automation systems, including user requirements specifications (URS), functional/design specifications (FDS/DS), test protocols, engineering drawings, and SOPs.
Participate in commissioning, qualification, and validation (CQV) activities for automation systems, ensuring regulatory compliance (cGMP, FDA, etc.).
Collaborate with engineering, IT, operations, vendors, and quality assurance to deliver robust and reliable automation projects.
Implement system upgrades, migrations, and enhancements with minimal impact to production, ensuring data integrity and system security.
Stay current with new automation technologies, industry trends, and best practices.
Support change control, risk assessment, and deviation investigations related to automation systems.
Contribute to training of operations and maintenance staff on new or modified automation systems.
Participate in safety reviews, process hazard analysis, and contribute to EHS initiatives related to automation.
EDUCATION/QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, Computer Science, Mechatronics, or a related technical field.
Minimum 5 years of hands‑on experience with industrial automation systems in a manufacturing, pharmaceutical, biotech, or similar regulated environment.
Strong knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, DCS, and related instrumentation and control systems (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens, Emerson, Schneider Electric, etc.).
Familiarity with automation life‑cycle documentation and regulatory requirements (cGMP, FDA, ISA standards, GAMP5).
Proven capability in troubleshooting, maintaining, and optimizing automated equipment and systems.
Experience with networking, industrial protocols (Ethernet/IP, Profibus, Modbus, OPC, etc.), and integration with IT/OT systems is a plus.
Excellent problem‑solving, communication, and organizational skills.
Team‑oriented, with the ability to work independently and collaborate cross‑functionally.
Proficient in technical documentation and use of Microsoft Office; experience with automation engineering tools is beneficial.
Willingness to be available for on‑call support or participate in site‑based project activities as required.
Seniority level
Mid‑Senior level
Employment type
Contract
Job function / Industries
Engineering Services, Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, and Biotechnology Research
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