Sr. Automation & Process Control Engineer

The Opportunity:

Avantor is looking for a Sr. Automation & Process Control Engineer to join our Engineering Manufacturing team.

This is a remote role that requires up to 30% travel to Avantor sites worldwide.

What we’re looking for

• Education: Bachelor’s degree is required; Degree concentrations in Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Controls and Automations or similar related field are highly preferred
• Experience: 7+ years’ experience working with control systems and automation
• Collaboration Tool: Strong computer skills including knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint required
• Preferred Qualifications: 
  • Certifications in Operational Technology and or any controls PLC or HMI platforms
  • Certification in GMP training
  • Experience with chemical reactors is a plus

How you will thrive and create an impact

The Sr. Engineer will lead and support the global Automation strategy along with automation projects including but not limited to new equipment, existing equipment improvements, automation initiatives, standardizations, scale-up, and validation in a cGMP regulated environment. Participate in additional process and engineering functions including development and improvement initiatives as needed for filling, packaging, chemical manufacturing equipment and other production and facilities systems as appropriate.  

• Lead the development of the corporate automation strategy.
• Develop/implement digital strategy towards integration with business system.
• Develop automation scope and Requests for Quotes to work with 3rd party automation firms on larger projects.
• Vendor and contract management for automation projects
• Develop and maintain appropriate processes and procedures for system and equipment controls.
• Responsible for developing and documenting system requirements, design, installation and testing of new automated equipment and systems.
• Prepare detailed documentation of proposed changes and implement per change management procedures.
• Design and implement; support and troubleshoot improvements for existing equipment, processes and systems.
• Identify, propose, justify, facilitate and implement where appropriate continuous improvement projects following Lean Six Sigma or similar methodologies.
• Responsible for maintaining back-up copies and change control on control programs and configuration files for plant-wide PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, and servo drives.
• Program and test vision systems for product inspections.
• Lead Factory Acceptance Tests, Site Acceptance Tests, Installation Qualifications (IQ), Operational Qualifications (OQ), and Performance Qualifications (PQ).
• Specify hardware and instrumentation for controls projects.
• Lead cross-functional project teams for implementation.
• Organize system for maintenance and troubleshooting of automated equipment; train Maintenance staff on basic troubleshooting procedures.
• Prepare business case, cost models and financial justifications for process improvements or other engineering projects as assigned and appropriate.
• Develop and provide Operator and Maintenance training related to projects.
• Specify, design, program and test PLC and HMI systems.
• Maintain compliance with the necessary and appropriate Quality and Regulatory requirements (such as FDA, ISO, other).
• Facilitate and lead meetings as appropriate for relevant functions.
• Maintain laptop with licenses for programming and troubleshooting.
• Execute responsibilities for remote sites as assigned.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES (Those necessary to perform the job competently)

• Strong communications, both written and verbal
• Proficient with PLC programming software such as RS Studio, DirectSOFT (Automation Direct), Siemens, B&R Automation Studio or similar
• Knowledge of PanelView or similar HMI programming
• Experience with Historian systems
• Ability to read P&IDs, electrical schematics and network diagrams
• Knowledge of AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or equivalent design software
• Experience with VFD and servo motor drive configuration
• Ability to develop project plans and complete projects on time and on budget
• Ability to interact with all levels of the organization
• Project management skills

ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL EFFORT (Under Typical Positions)

Typically works in an office environment with adequate lighting and ventilation and a normal range of temperature and noise level.

Work assignments are diversified