Jobs and Careers
AS

Senior Automation Specialist, Mechanic & Controls

AstraZeneca
Gaithersburg, United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 10 Jun 2025
💰 $134,812/yr($89,874/yr$134,812/yr)

About the role

About the Role:
Join AstraZeneca as a Senior Automation Specialist, where you will maintain, troubleshoot, and optimize automation systems that drive our critical mechanical infrastructure — HVAC, steam, chilled water, and compressed air — within a regulated (GxP) environment. You’ll work closely with Facilities, Engineering, and Operations teams to ensure reliable system performance using Siemens BMS, Allen-Bradley PLCs, and SCADA platforms.

This role requires strong technical expertise in automation and a deep understanding of mechanical utility systems, though you won’t perform direct mechanical maintenance. Instead, you’ll guide, improve, and integrate smart solutions that keep our facilities running safely, efficiently, and sustainably.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Maintain, troubleshoot, and optimize Siemens BMS, Allen-Bradley PLCs, SCADA platforms, and field instrumentation.

  • Configure and calibrate control loops, sensors, actuators, valves, and Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs).

  • Lead or support automation upgrades, system installations, and integration projects.

  • Ensure compliance with FDA, GxP, and site validation standards.

  • Drive energy efficiency and sustainability improvements through automation enhancements.

  • Train and coach facility teams on automation best practices.

  • Coordinate vendor support for system repairs, upgrades, and troubleshooting.

  • Maintain system documentation, performance reports, and configuration backups.

  • Rapidly respond to urgent automation issues to minimize downtime.

Qualifications:

Education:

  • High School Diploma with 10+ years of experience in industrial automation, OR

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering with 5+ years of automation experience.

Experience Required:

  • 5+ years hands-on with Siemens BMS, Allen-Bradley PLCs, and SCADA platforms.

  • Skilled in troubleshooting PLCs, HMIs, and integrating automation protocols (BACnet, Modbus, OPC, MQTT).

  • Experience with instrumentation calibration and VFD systems.

  • Strong background in regulated environments (GxP, FDA).

Skills:

  • Expertise in HVAC, chilled water, compressed air, and mechanical utility systems automation.

  • Proficiency in diagnostic software, Siemens Desigo CC, and Allen-Bradley platforms.

  • Strong problem-solving, analytical, and project management skills.

  • Excellent communication and documentation abilities.

  • Familiarity with industrial cybersecurity and energy optimization practices.

Why Join Us?

At AstraZeneca, you’ll work at the forefront of facility automation innovation, supporting critical infrastructure that powers life-saving science. Bring your expertise, make an impact, and help us deliver a healthier future.

What’s Next?

Ready to make a significant! Apply today and become a key contributor to our innovative team! For more details, get in touch with Brandon Mays, our Talent Acquisition Partner.

Why AstraZeneca?
At AstraZeneca, we seize opportunities to innovate and redefine what’s possible in biopharmaceuticals. Our mission to deliver transformative medicines is underpinned by a culture of collaboration, inclusivity, and ambition. Join us in a role where your work directly gives to breakthroughs in oncology, empowering patients and changing lives.

Competitive Benefits and Compensation:
We offer a competitive Total Reward program, including market-driven base salary, bonuses, long-term incentives, and comprehensive health benefits. Additional benefits include generous paid time off, retirement plans, and access to ongoing professional development opportunities.

Diversity and Inclusion:
AstraZeneca is committed to fostering an inclusive, diverse environment where all employees feel valued and empowered. We welcome applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds and are proud to provide reasonable accommodations to ensure equal opportunity throughout the recruitment process.

The annual base pay (or hourly rate of compensation) for this position ranges from $89,874 - $134,812 USD Annual, either as annual base pay or as the hourly rate (annual base pay divided by 2080 hours)]. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including marke

Apply for this role

Generate a tailored application kit with a matched cover letter, interview prep, and CV highlights — in under 60 seconds.

Apply Now →Generate Application Kit

Free account required — sign up in 30s

Company

AstraZeneca

View company profile →