Senior Automation Engineer

Merz Pharmaceuticals USA•Franksville, WI

47d

About The Position

The Senior Automation Engineer is responsible for leading the development, implementation, and optimization of advanced automation solutions in-house and at strategic partners while maintaining project schedules and meeting budgets. This role will design and/or integrate automated systems including robotics, vision, and process equipment ensuring all automation projects meet regulatory, safety, and quality standards. The role also supports process validation and documentation, and provides technical leadership to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence across the organization. Success is measured through implementation of projects that meet desired outcome, budget, timeline, and manufacturing goals.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree Engineering, Automation, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline (Required)
7+ years Engineering or technical experience in a regulated manufacturing environment
5+ years Medical device or pharmaceutical industry
Demonstrated experience in the design, programming, and troubleshooting of automated manufacturing systems, including robotics, vision systems, and process equipment.
Experience leading cross-functional teams and external suppliers or integrators.
Experience with PLC and HMI programming, integration of automation equipment, and process validation.
Strong technical and problem-solving skills in automation and controls.
Proficiency in PLC and HMI programming, and integration of robotics and vision systems.
Knowledge of ISO 13485, FDA QSR, GMP, or other relevant industry regulations.
Ability to develop specifications, user requirement specifications (URS), and technical documentation.
Excellent communication, collaboration, and adaptability skills, with a commitment to continuous learning and the ability to work effectively across departments and with external partners.
Project management skills, including the ability to manage timelines, budgets, and multiple priorities.
Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Nice To Haves

Master's Degree Engineering

Responsibilities

Automation System Design & Optimization Lead the design, implementation, and optimization of automated manufacturing systems including robotics, vision systems, and process equipment.
Controls Programming & Troubleshooting Develop, program, and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, and related control systems for new and existing equipment.
Robotics Integration & Safety Compliance Integrate industrial robots and cobots into manufacturing processes, ensuring seamless operation and safety compliance.
Cross-Functional Collaboration & Solution Development Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, production, quality, suppliers, etc.) to identify opportunities for automation and define automation requirements and deliver robust solutions.
Continuous Improvement & Process Efficiency Drive continuous improvement initiatives to increase equipment reliability, throughput, and process efficiency.
Validation & Regulatory Compliance Support process validation, change control, and documentation for new automation projects, ensuring compliance with regulatory and quality standards (e.g., ISO 13485, FDA QSR).
Vendor & Project Management Manage relationships with automation vendors and integrators, including development of user requirement specifications (URS), technical documentation, specification, procurement, installation, and commissioning of new systems.
Technical Leadership & Mentorship Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineers and technicians on automation best practices and troubleshooting.
Safety & Environmental Compliance Ensure all automation systems meet safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
Project Timelines & Budget Management Maintain project timelines and budgets, creating and managing project and capital budgets in cooperation with management to meet department goals.
Other Duties Provide support within the Engineering department and other Merz departments as directed by Management.