Automation Controls Engineer III

Automation Controls Engineer III – Albuquerque, NM

The Automation Controls Engineer III is a senior technical role responsible for maintaining, optimizing, and enhancing control and data acquisition systems, including SCADA, PLC, and HMI devices, across manufacturing, packaging, and support operations. The engineer leads complex troubleshooting, mentors junior staff, and implements advanced automation technologies to improve efficiency, reliability, and lifecycle management.

• Maintain, optimize, and strategically enhance automation and data acquisition systems (SCADA, PLC, HMI) across all operations.
• Define, prioritize, and achieve complex technical goals; lead cross‑functional collaboration with internal teams, external contractors, and vendors.
• Schedule, oversee, and evaluate the work of external trade and technology partners, ensuring adherence to quality, safety, and GMP standards.
• Investigate quality deviations related to automated equipment; lead root cause analysis, corrective actions, and long‑term reliability improvements.
• Initiate, draft, and lead change requests and engineering documentation (SOPs, PMs, technical manuals) ensuring compliance with site and regulatory requirements.
• Provide advanced programming and integration support for monitoring systems, HMI displays, and other automation platforms; maintain up‑to‑date engineering drawings, system documentation, and software licenses.
• Identify, propose, and implement cost‑effective automation upgrades and modifications to existing or new production equipment.
• Lead complex projects with minimal oversight, balancing quality, validation, production, and regulatory considerations.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior engineers and technicians.
• Support Validation and Computer Systems Validation activities to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulatory expectations.
• Continuously evaluate and recommend emerging automation technologies to improve system efficiency, reliability, and lifecycle management.
• Read and interpret SOPs to ensure compliance and maintain up‑to‑date trainings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum of five (5) years' experience in automation integration.
• Experience with PLC and HMI platforms (Rockwell, Allen‑Bradley, Siemens, S7).

• Strong technical foundation in manufacturing and internet software.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (PowerPoint, Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Excellent written and verbal communication, presentation skills.
• Organizational and project management skills; ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to read, interpret, and apply technical documentation, specifications, and work instructions.
• Knowledge of applicable regulatory requirements and standards (OSHA, EPA, FDA, JPD, EU).
• Experience in building management and cleanroom aseptic facility automation is preferred.
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex control system issues and upgrade equipment.
• Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and problem‑solving skills.

• Must pass a background check.
• Must pass a drug screen.
• May be required to pass Occupational Health Screening.
• May be required to obtain and maintain gowning certification.
• May be required to maintain media qualification or wear a respirator as needed.

The role requires occasional lifting up to 50 pounds, regular sitting/standing, the use of hand/finger dexterity, and basic visual acuity. Work may involve exposure to cleaning agents, compressed gases, and the use of personal protective equipment. Physical and environmental conditions vary by location (office, manufacturing, or warehouse).

Curia is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. Curia is an E‑Verify employer.