Automation Engineer III

Matica Biotechnology is at the forefront of biopharmaceutical research and development. The Matica Bio team brings an average of 15 years of cell and viral vector manufacturing experience to the development and manufacture of advanced therapy products. At our purpose-built GMP facility in College Station, Texas, we provide rapid development and scale-up of cell and gene therapies, vaccines, and Oncolytics meeting worldwide regulatory compliance.

The true value of a CDMO is determined by the quality of its people. Matica Bio consists of a dedicated team of experts. We’re a cell and gene therapy CDMO powered by people, and our people provide real benefits to the quality, safety and speed of the cell and gene therapy development pathway. Our inventive thinking and foresight help us strategize the best path to take therapies from the lab to the market.

Come join our dedicated team and Make it Happen With Matica Bio!

The Automation Engineer III is responsible for leading the design, integration, and lifecycle management of process control, automation, and laboratory/OT systems across the organization. This role serves as the senior technical authority, providing advanced troubleshooting, systems strategy, and project leadership to ensure the reliability, efficiency, and compliance of critical automated systems within Manufacturing, Quality Control, Analytical, and Process Development areas.

The Automation Engineer III partners with cross-functional teams and external vendors to drive new technology introductions, system upgrades, and continuous improvement initiatives aligned with regulatory requirements and industry best practices. In addition, this position provides mentorship and technical guidance to junior engineers, including the Automation Engineer I and II, fostering knowledge transfer, standardization, and long‑term capability development within the Automation Technology function.

Success in this role requires deep expertise in process control and automation platforms, strong leadership in regulated environments, and the ability to balance hands‑on technical work with strategic oversight.

• Provide hands‑on technical leadership for the design, configuration, integration, qualification, and lifecycle management of automation and control systems across manufacturing, laboratory, and facility operations.
• Lead advanced troubleshooting and root cause analysis of process control systems, including PLC, DCS, SCADA, and equipment‑level automation, ensuring rapid resolution of issues impacting GMP operations.
• Manage and execute automation projects and system implementations, including requirements definition, vendor coordination, and system implementation, and provide support for commissioning and qualification activities (IQ/OQ/PQ) in alignment with regulatory expectations.
• Ensure systems meet GxP, 21 CFR Part 11, and data integrity (ALCOA+) requirements, including audit trails, electronic records, and validated system configurations.
• Support client programs and tech transfer activities, including customization of automation strategies, participation in client meetings, and support during audits and regulatory inspections.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, identifying opportunities to enhance system reliability, scalability, and operational efficiency in a fast‑paced CDMO setting.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior automation engineers, promoting standardization, knowledge transfer, and strong engineering practices.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (e.g., Chemical, Electrical, Mechanical, Computer Engineering, or related discipline) required.

• 6–12+ years of experience in automation, process control…