Senior Automation Controls Engineer – Facilities & Engineering

AstraZeneca • Los Angeles, CA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Automation Controls Engineer – Facilities & Engineering is responsible for leading and managing the technical aspects of facilities and process automation /controls , including development and validation, engineering projects, and capital investments within a pharmaceutical organization. This role involves providing expert technical guidance, overseeing complex projects, and ensuring that all systems and processes meet regulatory requirements and support operational efficiency.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering , Electrical Engineering preferred , or a related engineering field; Master’s degree preferred.
• 7-10 years of experience in automation/controls software and equipment systems , with background in qualification/ validation, facilities engineering, and capital projects .
• S ignificant experience in a pharmaceutical or regulated industry is preferred .
• Extensive knowledge of GMP, FDA regulations, and other relevant compliance requirements.
• Proven experience in leading complex automation/ controls processes, asset ownership , engineering projects, and capital investments.
• Strong project management skills with experience in budgeting, scheduling, and resource allocation.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively under pressure.

Nice To Haves

• Cell Therapy Experience

Responsibilities

• Leadership and Oversight: Lead technical teams and provide guidance on facilities and process automation /controls , including development and validation activities, engineering solutions, and capital projects.
• Mentor and support junior engineers and other technical staff in development of cross functional support for automated systems .
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align engineering and project activities with organizational goals.
• Facilities Management: As asset owner, o versee the maintenance and operation of automat ion /control systems and equipment within the site including critical facilities /utilities , laboratories, production areas, and administrative spaces.
• Develop and implement strategies for facility automation/ controls improvements and upgrades to enhance operational efficiency and compliance.
• Ensure automat ion /controls systems adhere to health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Validation Management: Lead the development and execution of validation strategies, protocols, and documentation for site systems, equipment, and processes with focus on assets associated with automation/controls .
• Ensure that validation activities meet regulatory requirements (e.g., FDA, EMA) and internal standards.
• Manage complex validation projects, including protocol design, execution, and reporting.
• Automation/ Controls Oversight: Oversee automation/controls programs to ensure the reliability of systems including electrical components, software environments , and automated field devices .
• Develop and implement maintenance and inspection programs for critical equipment.
• Ensure automation/controls engineering procedures and processes comply with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
• Engineering Leadership: Lead engineering projects related to the design, installation, and commissioning of systems and equipment.
• Ensure engineering activities adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and other relevant regulations.
• Develop and implement preventive and predictive maintenance programs to enhance equipment reliability.
• Capital Projects Management: Manage all aspects of capital projects, including automation/ controls systems upgrades, expansions, and new installations .
• Develop project plans, budgets, and schedules; monitor progress and ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Coordinate with internal stakeholders, external contractors, and vendors to achieve project objectives and compliance.
• Documentation and Reporting: Prepare and review comprehensive documentation for qualification/ validation, engineering procedures and work instructions , and capital projects.
• Generate detailed reports on project status, validation results, project activities, and asset ownership/ maintenance work.
• Ensure that documentation is accurate , complete, and compliant with regulatory requirements.
• Compliance and Safety: Ensure all facilities, systems, and processes comply with regulatory requirements and industry standards.
• Develop and enforce safety protocols and emergency response plans.
• Conduct regular audits and inspections to ensure compliance and address any issues promptly.
• Continuous Improvement: Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve system reliability.
• Stay current with industry trends, technological advancements, company guidance, and regulatory changes to ensure best practices are applied.

Benefits

• qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]
• paid vacation and holidays
• paid leaves
• health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees