Senior Engineer, Automation Controls – Facilities & Engineering

AstraZeneca • Los Angeles, CA

6d • $146,722 - $220,082 • Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a Senior Engineer, Automation Controls to lead facilities and process automation within a pharmaceutical environment. This role drives engineering projects, validation, and capital investments while ensuring systems meet GMP and regulatory standards. You’ll provide expert technical guidance, oversee complex projects, and enhance operational efficiency across critical facilities, labs, and production areas.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical preferred); Master’s a plus.
• 7–10 years in automation/controls, validation, facilities engineering, and capital projects.
• Experience in pharmaceutical or regulated industries.
• Strong knowledge of GMP, FDA regulations, and compliance standards.
• Proven success leading automation/controls processes, asset ownership, and engineering projects.
• Strong project management, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure.
• 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.
• Significant 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.

Nice To Haves

• Cell Therapy experience.

Responsibilities

• Guide technical teams in automation/controls development, validation, and engineering solutions; mentor junior staff; collaborate cross‑functionally to align projects with organizational goals.
• Serve as asset owner for automation/control systems across critical facilities, labs, and production areas; drive strategies for upgrades and efficiency improvements; ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards.
• Lead validation strategies, protocols, and documentation for automation/controls assets; ensure compliance with FDA, EMA, and internal standards; manage complex validation projects from design through reporting.
• Ensure reliability of systems including electrical components, software, and field devices; implement maintenance and inspection programs; uphold industry and regulatory standards.
• Direct design, installation, and commissioning of systems/equipment; ensure GMP compliance; develop preventive and predictive maintenance programs to maximize reliability.
• Manage automation/controls upgrades, expansions, and new installations; oversee budgets, schedules, and stakeholder/vendor coordination to deliver projects on time and within budget.
• Prepare and review documentation for validation, engineering procedures, and capital projects; generate detailed reports ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Maintain adherence to regulatory requirements and industry standards; enforce safety protocols and emergency response plans; conduct audits and inspections to address issues proactively.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve reliability; stay current with industry trends, technology, and regulatory changes.

Benefits

• paid vacation and holidays
• paid leaves
• health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage
• short-term incentive bonus opportunity
• equity-based long-term incentive program (salaried roles)
• retirement contribution (hourly roles)
• commission payment eligibility (sales roles)
• qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior