Automation Controls PLC Specialist

This job is with Thermo Fisher Scientific, an inclusive employer and a member of my Gwork – the largest global platform for the LGBTQ+ business community. Please do not contact the recruiter directly.

Work Schedule
Standard (Mon-Fri)  Environmental Conditions
Adherence to all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) Safety Standards, Loud Noises (Equipment/Machinery), Office, Some degree of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required (safety glasses, gowning, gloves, lab coat, ear plugs etc.)

Job Description

Location:

Meriden, CT. Relocation assistance is NOT provided.
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.
Must be able to pass a comprehensive background check, which includes a drug screening.

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 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.

Location/Division Specific Information:
This role is in the Filtration and Separation Division and will be performed at our Meriden, CT location.

What will you do?
As a Staff Engineer specializing in PLC systems at Thermo Fisher Scientific, you will play a crucial role in designing, implementing, and optimizing advanced automation solutions across our manufacturing facilities. Your expertise in PLC programming and integration will be instrumental in enhancing our production processes, ensuring efficiency, and maintaining the highest quality standards.
Lead complex automation projects
Spearhead the development and implementation of sophisticated PLC-based control systems
Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including Manufacturing, R&D, and Quality Assurance
Architect robust PLC solutions, troubleshoot complex automation issues, and drive continuous improvement initiatives
Mentor junior engineers, contribute to best practices in automation, and play a key role in strategic decision-making related to manufacturing technology.
Enhance our manufacturing capabilities and drive innovation across our operations.

Education:

Minimum required

Education:

Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field
Six Sigma certification (preferably Green Belt or higher) is a plus

Experience:

8+ years of experience in industrial automation, with a strong focus on PLC programming and implementation
Extensive expertise in PLC platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Mitsubishi or similar, with advanced programming skills
Proven experience in designing and implementing complex automation systems in a regulated manufacturing environment
Strong knowledge of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, Profibus, Ether Net/IP)

Experience with SCADA systems and HMI development
Proficiency in additional programming languages (e.g., C++, Python) for automation-related applications

Experience with process validation and equipment qualification in automated systems
Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex PLC and automation issues
Experience in integrating PLC systems with MES and ERP systems

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to optimize processes through automation
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders
Experience mentoring junior engineers and contributing to the professional development of the team
Ability to work effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and adapt to changing priorities
Strong project management skills with a track record of successfully leading large-scale automation projects preferred
Familiarity with Industry 4.0 concepts and IoT applications in manufacturing preferred
Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining the highest quality standards in all…