Automation Engineer III

Job Description

As part of the Thermo Fisher Scientific team, you’ll discover meaningful work that makes a positive impact on a global scale. Join our colleagues in bringing our Mission to life every single day to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. We provide our global teams with the resources needed to achieve individual career goals while helping to take science a step beyond by developing solutions for some of the world’s toughest challenges, like protecting the environment, making sure our food is safe or helping find cures for cancer.

As an Automation Manufacturing Engineer III, you will optimize production processes, implement new automation technologies, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. You'll work with cross-functional teams to ensure the efficient manufacture of high-quality products while maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements.

Able to lift 40 lbs. without assistance, adherence to all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) safety standards, and some degree of personal protective equipment (PPE) required (safety glasses, gowning, gloves, lab coat, ear plugs, etc.).

Standard (Mon-Fri).

• Troubleshooting & Support:
  Provide on‑call (24/7) technical support, troubleshooting, and optimization for sterile manufacturing systems, including autoclaves, parts washers, filling lines, and CIP/SIP systems.
• System Design & Implementation:
  Contribute to automation and control system design; oversee contractors during implementation, commissioning, and validation of systems (e.g., D3 DCS, Siemens, Allen‑Bradley) for both production and utility systems.
• Documentation:
  Develop, review, and maintain functional design specifications (FDS), software design documentation, and validation protocols.
• Compliance & Validation:
  Ensure all systems comply with cGMP, GAMP 5, and FDA regulatory requirements.
• Project Execution:
  Partner with cross‑functional teams (Process Engineering, Operations, Validation, Quality, IT) to execute automation projects, manage vendors, and support system upgrades and lifecycle management.

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field preferred. Associate Degree or equivalent with 5+ years of experience required.
• Strong knowledge of GMP and life sciences regulatory requirements.
• Proficiency in PLC programming, HMI/SCADA systems, DCS platforms, and industrial networking (e.g., Profibus, Ether Net/IP).
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational abilities.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
• Experience supporting engineers and technicians in a production setting.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize effectively.
• Experience with risk assessment methodologies and root cause analysis.
• Familiarity with change management principles and processes.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and relevant engineering/automation software.
• Willingness and ability to travel up to 20%, including support of Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs) at domestic and international vendor sites.
• Ability to work in cleanroom environments as required.

• Hands‑on experience with Allen‑Bradley PLCs (Control Logix preferred) and process control systems.
• Experience developing and supporting Rockwell Factory Talk SCADA applications.
• Familiarity with D/3 (or similar) DCS platforms, or ability to quickly learn.
• Experience with OPC communication setup and configuration.
• Working knowledge of SQL Server, including data queries, support, and basic database management.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and technical drawings.
• Basic understanding of HVAC, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems.
• Experience configuring and troubleshooting servo systems and variable frequency drives (VFDs).
• Experience with Optima and IMA sterile filling systems is highly preferred.

We offer competitive remuneration, an annual incentive plan bonus, healthcare, and a range of employee benefits.

Relocation assistance is not provided.

Must be legally authorized to work in the United States now and in the future, without sponsorship.

Must be able to pass a comprehensive background check, which includes a drug screening.