MES & Digital - Senior Automation Engineer (Pharma)

When joining PerkinElmer, you select an experienced and trusted leader in scientific solutions, with the support of a global service network and distribution centers, providing the right solution, at the right time, to meet critical customer needs.  With over an 80+ year legacy of advancing science and a mission of innovating for a healthier world, our dedicated team collaborates closely with commercial, government, academic and healthcare customers to deliver our broad portfolio of analytical solutions, and OneSource services.

Job Title

MES & Digital - Senior Automation Engineer (Pharma)

Location(s)

US Remote - CA, US Remote - CO, US Remote - DC, US Remote - FL, US Remote - GA, US Remote - IL, US Remote - IN, US Remote - MA, US Remote - MO, US Remote - NC, US Remote - NJ, US Remote - OH, US Remote - PA, US Remote - TX, US Remote - VA

Job Description

This is a full-time salaried position with Project Farma, a PerkinElmer company. The successful candidate will reside in the US and be willing to travel domestically, to meet client project requests.

The Senior Automation Engineer provides subject matter expertise in the design, implementation, and lifecycle management of digital systems across biologics, pharmaceutical, and novel therapy manufacturing facilities. This is a fully billable role, requiring experience with various MES platforms, Data Repositories, Serialization and integration to manufacturing applications (ERP, LIMS, CMMS, etc) and the ability to author, interpret, and lead documentation such as URS, FRS, Functional Narratives, and detailed system architecture designs.

In addition to technical experience, the Senior Automation Engineer, MES & Digital Systems acts as client liaison during delivery of Project Farma service engagements. They are strategically responsible for client satisfaction through project delivery while maintaining and growing client relationships.

Key Responsibilities

Automation Design & Architecture

• Develop system architectures and data flows for biologics, pharmaceutical, and advanced therapy manufacturing (DCS, PLC/SCADA, MES, historians, network layers).
• Develop product recipe strategies across the full application layer of ERP, MES and DCS Batch.
• Detailed knowledge of Master data and how to define and control Master Data.
• Create ISA-88/ISA-95-aligned architecture diagrams, inc Application and Data Flow diagrams.
• Ensure architecture supports scalability, cybersecurity, data integrity, and multi-product flexibility.

URS / FRS / Design Documentation

• Lead the creation, review, and approval of: URS, FRS, DS / DDS, Functional & Control Narratives, Recipe Design Documentation (ISA-88 compliant), Automation Standards & Engineering Guidelines
• Work cross functionally to translate process requirements into robust digital system design documents.

Digital System Implementation

• Configure, program, and deploy Digital System within the manufacturing environment.
• Develop, modify, and test MES (eBR, RbE, eLogbooks, Equipment Tracking, Weigh & Dispense), LIMS, Serialization and CMMS application functionality.
• Support integration of OEM skids: bioreactors, chromatography systems, filtration skids,
• CIP/SIP, and fill finish equipment.
• Commissioning, Validation & GMP Compliance
• Detailed knowledge of FAT, SAT, IQ/OQ, and PQ protocols in alignment with GAMP 5 and 21 CFR Part 11.
• Ensure all changes meet data integrity requirements, change control processes, and validation lifecycle rules.
• Lead deviation investigations, CAPAs, and risk assessments related to Digital systems. Manufacturing & Operations Support
• Serve as SME for troubleshooting, system optimization, batch failure analysis, and performance enhancements.
• Support 24/7 operations through structured root cause analysis and resolution of Digital System issues.
• Develop long-term lifecycle plans for upgrades, patches, and system expansions. Cross Functional Leadership
• Collaborate with IT/OT, process engineering, MSAT, quality, and capital project teams to deliver integrated system solutions.
• Manage vendors, system integrators, and OEMs; review design packages and ensure alignment with internal standards.
• Mentor junior engineers and act as technical SME during audits and regulatory inspections.

Experience Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Automation, Electrical, Chemical, Mechanical, or related).
• Minimum 9-12+ years in automation engineering within GMP life scie