Sr. Automation Engineer

Sr. Automation Engineer I

Location:

United States - California - Foster City

Position details reflect a regular, full-time role in Facilities Operations/EH&S at Gilead.

At Gilead, we’re creating a healthier world for all people. For more than 35 years, we’ve tackled diseases such as HIV, viral hepatitis, COVID-19 and cancer – working relentlessly to develop therapies that help improve lives and to ensure access to these therapies across the globe. We continue to fight against the world’s biggest health challenges, and our mission requires collaboration, determination and a relentless drive to make a difference.

Every member of Gilead’s team plays a critical role in the discovery and development of life-changing scientific innovations. Our employees are our greatest asset as we work to achieve our bold ambitions, and we’re looking for the next wave of passionate and ambitious people ready to make a direct impact. We believe every employee deserves a great leader. People Leaders are the cornerstone to the employee experience at Gilead and Kite.

As a people leader now or in the future, you are the key driver in evolving our culture and creating an environment where every employee feels included, developed and empowered to fulfil their aspirations. Join Gilead and help create possible, together.

• Oversee and maintain automation-based systems and solutions to support a flexible, innovative, cost-effective, and compliant R&D pharmaceutical environment.
• Lead the design, development, and implementation of automation solutions using the Ignition SCADA platform and MQTT (Sparkplug) technology.
• Implement changes to control system hardware/software and supervise vendor modifications, including specification development and testing documentation in both GMP and non-GMP environments.
• Plan and execute automation projects and capital expenditures (Cap Ex) in collaboration with cross-functional teams, ensuring delivery on cost, time, and quality.
• Develop and apply data analytics to support data-driven decision-making and operational optimization.
• Manage modern automation applications using containerization tools such as Docker or Podman.
• Administer and optimize ESX, Linux, and Windows virtual machines to support automation workflows.
• Drive digital innovation by piloting new technologies to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and compliance.
• Create, modify, and maintain automation documentation, including specifications and SOPs, in a compliant state.
• Support validation of automation systems in collaboration with QA Validation.
• Maintain and enforce automation technical standards and procedures.

• BS or MS in Computer Science, Electrical, Chemical, or Mechanical Engineering from an accredited university.
• At least 7 years of relevant engineering experience.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, matrixed environment.
• Proven track record of delivering impactful automation solutions and driving digital innovation.
• Strong familiarity with ISA-88 and ISA-95 standards.
• Extensive experience with:
  • Ignition SCADA platform (including Perspective, Alarming, SQL Bridge, Reporting)
  • MQTT (Sparkplug) technology
  • PLCs (Control Logix, Compact Logix, Micro
    800 series)
  • Industrial communication protocols (OPC UA, Mod Bus, Ethernet/IP)
  • Node-RED, JavaScript, and Python programming
  • VMware ESXi, Linux, and Windows virtual machines
  • Docker or Podman for containerized application management
• Gold Certified Ignition Engineer.

• Previous experience in the life sciences or pharmaceutical industry.
• Experience with .NET and Visual Studio.
• Ability to work onsite at least 4 days per week.

The salary range for this position is: $ - $. Gilead considers a variety of factors when determining base compensation, including experience, qualifications, and geographic location. This position may also be eligible for a discretionary annual bonus, discretionary stock-based long-term incentives (eligibility may vary based on role), paid time off, and a benefits package. Benefits include company-sponsored…