Sr Automation Engineer

Position: Sr Automation Engineer I
* Lead the design, development, and deployment of automation solutions using the Ignition SCADA platform, with a focus on leveraging MQTT (Sparkplug) and advanced scripting capabilities.
* Sustain and scale the existing Aveva PI Historian system for real-time and historical data collection, trending, Asset Framework creation, and analysis in support of process monitoring, continuous improvement, and corporate initiatives (Sustainability, Condition-Based Maintenance).
* Drive digital transformation by piloting and implementing innovative automation and data solutions, including testing and integrating LLMs/MCP servers to support AI initiatives and expand AI adoption.
* Develop and maintain automation scripts for data processing, system integration, and custom functionality within Ignition and other platforms.
* Integrate Biologics/Small Molecules laboratory instruments and systems via APIs, ensuring seamless data flow and system interoperability across R&D environments.
* Implement and manage automation changes in both GMP and non-GMP environments, including hardware/software upgrades and vendor coordination.
* Manage external contractors and third-party integrators, including scope definition, performance monitoring, deliverable review, and budget/schedule oversight.
* Provide technical mentorship and guidance to junior automation engineers.
* Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver automation projects that meet cost, quality, and timeline goals.
* Utilize Docker or Podman to containerize and manage automation applications for scalability and reliability.
* Administer containerized applications running in Linux environments.
* Maintain comprehensive and compliant automation documentation (User Requirements, Design Specifications, Work Instructions, SOPs).
* MS in Computer Science, Electrical, Chemical, or Mechanical Engineering from an accredited university with at least 4 years of relevant engineering experience.
* Ignition 8.1 or 8.3 Gold certification and extensive hands-on experience in:
+ Ignition Core Modules (Perspective)  + MQTT (Sparkplug

B)  + Jython scripting within Ignition
* Strong Python and JavaScript programming skills, with experience in automation, data processing, and API integration.
* Proven experience integrating various lab equipment and systems using standard or custom APIs.
* Experience with PLCs (Rockwell, Opto
22) and industrial protocols (OPC UA, Modbus, Ethernet/IP).
* Experience with Historian systems (Aveva PI, Canary Labs, Ignition Historian).
* Familiarity with Cloud Services (Azure, AWS), Dev Ops tools, and technologies (Git Hub, CI/CD pipelines, Ansible, Docker, Podman).
* Track record of mentoring junior engineers and fostering a collaborative, high-performance team environment.
* Ability to rapidly learn and adopt new automation platforms.
* Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills; structured approach to root-cause analysis.
* Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
* Must be able to work onsite at least 3 days per week.
* Experience in Life Sciences industry.
* Experience with Node-RED programming tool.
* Experience with Databricks cloud-based data intelligence platform.
* Experience with DCS systems (e.g., Emerson Delta

V).
* Experience with lab automation systems such as Unchained Labs, Hamilton, and Tecan.
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