Automation Engineer Intern

PCI Pharma Services•Rockford, IL

About The Position

The Automation Engineer Intern uses an engineering skill set to support software systems at PCI. The position assists with daily maintenance of production data collection systems and with creating electrical schematics and control systems for equipment and data collection. The employee works with internal colleagues to identify complex line connectivity requirements and translate them into interface solution specifications and delivery. The position has no supervisory responsibilities. The role supports the setup, configuration, implementation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of production monitoring, vision and inspection, printing, sensor-based, and serialization systems across packaging lines. It also assists with PLC-to-OPC connectivity, electrical schematics and network layouts, and operational technology cybersecurity in coordination with IT. The employee follows applicable OSHA and NFPA 70E requirements, works with other departments, and learns and trains on new systems as needed. Work is primarily in an office or at a desk for one-half to three-quarters of the day, with work in areas requiring protective clothing or gear for a similar portion of the day. The role may involve electrical-shock risk for up to one-quarter of the day. Physical activities include moving and traversing, operating and inspecting equipment, installing and adjusting systems, and communicating and determining information. The employee may move or transport up to 10 pounds for less than one-quarter of an average day. Distance vision is identified as a special vision requirement. The position is an internship. The hiring rate is $20.00 per hour, with eligibility for an annual performance bonus. PCI states that its full-time employees receive paid time off, health insurance including dental and vision coverage, a flexible spending account, and a 401(k).

Requirements

Working toward a bachelor's degree in a related field.
College-level mathematical skills.
Advanced computer skills, including the ability to perform complex computer tasks and operate various computer programs.
Minimum professional proficiency in communication, including participating effectively in conversations and reading standard materials addressed to general readers.
Very high reasoning ability, including defining problems, collecting data, establishing facts, drawing valid conclusions, interpreting technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form, and handling abstract and concrete variables.
Technical knowledge of at least one of the following: information systems; networks and infrastructure; PLC programming; HMI programming; OPC software programming; operating systems; or packaging equipment, including serialization equipment.
Ability to follow OSHA and NFPA 70E codes and regulations.

Nice To Haves

Ability to follow instructions and respond to management direction.
Ability to display original thinking and creativity.
Ability to exercise sound and accurate judgment.
Ability to set and achieve challenging goals.

Responsibilities

Assist with daily maintenance of production data collection systems.
Assist with setting up and configuring production data monitoring systems for new and existing packaging lines.
Assist with implementing, troubleshooting, and maintaining vision and inspection systems.
Assist with implementing, troubleshooting, and maintaining printing systems, including TTO, inkjet, and laser systems.
Install sensor-based systems as needed to collect production counts and monitor production status changes.
Assist with connecting PLCs to OPC servers through virtual LAN connections.
Assist with creating and modifying electrical schematics and network layouts for electrical equipment.
Work with IT on connectivity and maintaining appropriate cybersecurity for OT networks.
Use software databases to troubleshoot serialization issues.
Follow OSHA and NFPA 70E codes and regulations.
Coordinate with other departments as necessary and learn and train on new systems.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Manager or Supervisor.