Sr. Automation Engineer

Bachem AG•Vista, CA

5d•$118,004 - $162,256

About The Position

The Sr. Automation Engineer manages automation systems and projects within a regulated pharmaceutical manufacturing environment, conducting design evaluations and recommending improvements to enhance product quality and operational efficiency. The role defines required hardware, software, and network architecture, and drives project milestones to design, develop, and optimize process automation while supporting cross‑functional project teams.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field, or 8+ years of qualified work experience in lieu of degree
Minimum of 5 years’ qualified work experience
Experience with SCADA/HMI platforms, such as Ignition, FactoryTalk View ME/SE, and WinCC.
Experience with industrial fieldbus communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP, and ProfNet, and the ability to implement system network topology for Ethernet and serial communications.
Experience with Copadata Zenon, Ignition, and PlantPAX SCADA platforms
Experience with Omron PLC/IO, iFIX.
Experience with BACnet/IP and MSTP protocols and BMS systems.
Experience with OSI PI, Zenon, and MSSQL
Working Knowledge of ISA and IEE Standards and Industry Codes as they relate to Chemical, Pharmaceutical facilities, or related facilities.
Knowledge of NEC, UL 508A.
Working Knowledge of ISA and IEE Standards and Industry Code as it relates to Chemical, Pharmaceutical facilities or related facilities
Knowledge of NEC, UL, and FDA title 21 standards and requirements
Technical knowledge of automation, controls, instrumentation, batch programming, Programmable Logic Controllers, Distributed Control Systems, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition systems, Building Automation Systems, IT and OT networks and technologies
Knowledge of batch processing and recipe management
Direct complete project life cycle from design, planning, and implementation to validation. Act as project manager across multiple projects
Experience with electrical and program troubleshooting
Ability to safely work with electrical circuits up to 480VAC
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Ability to effectively organize, multitask, and work in a fast-paced, deadline driven work environment
Detail oriented with the ability to troubleshoot and resolve problems.
Ability to work independently, manage one’s time, and function well in a team environment

Responsibilities

Responsible for Installation and qualification of automation systems for batch processing tanks, solvent recovery system, filter dryers, HPLCs, filtration system, Lyophilizers, ultra-low freezers, HVAC, solvent distribution and recovery system, compressed air, purified water, and wastewater system.
Collaborate with production and controls team to develop and streamline production process in automating the new and existing system by harmonizing and leveraging technology developed by Center of Excellence (Bachem Headquarters).
Develop and train cross-functional team members on utilization and maintaining new automation systems for equipment and system – by creating roadmap, improving existing process, creating new procedures, job aids, SOPs and protocols as well as training of staff for these expectations.
Troubleshoot and monitor automation systems and trends to ensure that equipment works to its specifications and appropriate capacities
Support engineering team and coordinates engineering activities to design, develop, and execute the automation part of strategic investment projects.
Ensures compliance of company policies, procedures and objectives regarding processes, initiatives, and projects