Automation Engineer

Job description

Key Responsibilities:

1. Automation System Design & Implementation:

• Design, implement, and commission automated control systems for pharmaceutical manufacturing equipment, including PLC systems, SCADA systems, DCS, and HMI interfaces.
• Ensure systems meet GxP (Good Automated Manufacturing Practice), regulatory, and industry standards.
• Collaborate with the engineering and project management teams to design control strategies for various processes and equipment, ensuring safety and efficiency.
• Manage the installation and commissioning of new automation equipment, including software, hardware, and integration with existing systems.

2. System Maintenance & Troubleshooting:

• Provide support for the troubleshooting and maintenance of automation systems to ensure the continuous operation of critical manufacturing equipment and processes.
• Conduct preventative maintenance and resolve issues related to automation controls, instrumentation, and related software.
• Perform root cause analysis (RCA) for automation system failures and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) to prevent recurrence.

3. Validation & Compliance:

• Ensure that all automation systems and processes comply with relevant regulatory requirements (e.g., FDA, EMA, ISO, GxP).
• Support automation system validation efforts, including IQ/OQ/PQ (Installation Qualification, Operational Qualification, and Performance Qualification) and documentation.
• Assist in audits, inspections, and other compliance activities related to automation systems, ensuring all systems are validated and fully compliant.
• Write and execute system documentation including SOPs, change control documents, and validation protocols.

4. Continuous Improvement & Optimization:

• Identify areas for process and automation improvement to enhance system performance, reduce downtime, and increase manufacturing efficiency.
• Work with cross-functional teams to analyze process data and optimize automated systems to increase yield and reduce operational costs.
• Implement Industry 4.0 technologies such as data analytics, predictive maintenance, and IIOT (Industrial Internet of Things) to optimize the automation environment.

5. Project Management & Collaboration:

• Lead and support automation-related projects, including system upgrades, new installations, and process optimizations.
• Work closely with manufacturing, engineering, and IT teams to ensure the seamless integration of automation systems with manufacturing processes.
• Manage project schedules, resources, and budgets while ensuring projects are completed on time and within scope.

Qualifications:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, or a related field.
• Master’s degree in a relevant discipline is a plus.

Experience:

• 3+ years of experience in automation engineering within the pharmaceutical, biotech, or life sciences industries.
• Hands-on experience with PLC systems, SCADA, DCS, HMI, and MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems).
• Solid experience with automation system integration, including control panel wiring, programming, and troubleshooting.
• Experience in pharma or GxP-regulated environments is essential.

Skills:

• Proficiency with PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, etc.), and associated software like RSLogix, TIA Portal, or similar tools.
• Strong working knowledge of industrial automation systems and related hardware and software.
• Expertise in control systems (e.g., Honeywell, Emerson, Schneider Electric).
• Experience with data analytics, predictive maintenance, and IIOT is a plus.
• Strong knowledge of automated batch control and continuous manufacturing systems.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot complex automation systems.
• Familiarity with validation processes (IQ/OQ/PQ) and regulatory compliance (FDA, EMA, ISO).

Certifications (Preferred):

• Certified Automation Professional (CAP) or similar automation certifications.
• Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing certifications.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) or similar project management certifications.

Personal Attributes:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across functions.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines.
• A proactive and solution-oriented approach to problem-solving and troubleshooting.
• Strong attention to detail and high standards for quality and safety.