Cold Room Automation Engineer

Location: New Jersey, (Hybrid – 50% Onsite Required)

Duration: 12-Month Contract

We are seeking a skilled Cold Room Automation Engineer to support the design, implementation, commissioning, qualification, validation, and operational support of cold chain systems within a GMP-regulated manufacturing environment. This role will focus on refrigeration systems, cold storage technologies, and automation platforms that support manufacturing, packaging, and warehouse operations.

The ideal candidate will work closely with Facilities & Engineering, Manufacturing, Packaging Operations, Warehouse, Quality Assurance, CSV, IT/OT, and external vendors to deliver reliable, compliant, and efficient cold chain solutions.

• Support the design, implementation, and optimization of cold room and refrigeration systems used in manufacturing and warehouse operations.
• Participate in commissioning, startup, qualification, validation, and operational readiness activities for cold storage systems and related equipment.
• Assist in the implementation, testing, troubleshooting, and support of automation and software systems used for cold room operations.
• Support Commissioning, Qualification, and Validation (CQV) activities and ensure documentation is completed accurately and on schedule.
• Collaborate with Quality, Manufacturing, Packaging, CSV, and IT/OT teams to support system integration and regulatory compliance.
• Monitor system performance and support troubleshooting efforts to resolve operational and automation-related issues.
• Assist in developing SOPs, work instructions, and training materials to support system operation and maintenance.
• Work with vendors, contractors, and consultants to support project execution and system improvements.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on operational efficiency, system reliability, and process optimization.
• Support OT/IT integration activities, including automation systems, industrial networking, and data connectivity.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• 2–5 years of experience in automation, manufacturing engineering, refrigeration systems, facilities engineering, or related industrial environments.
• Experience supporting commissioning, qualification, validation, startup, or maintenance of manufacturing or facility systems.
• Basic understanding of industrial refrigeration, HVAC, cold storage systems, or automated process equipment.
• Familiarity with automation systems, PLCs, SCADA, HMI platforms, or industrial control systems.
• Knowledge of GMP-regulated environments and quality systems is preferred.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional team environment.
• Experience with technical documentation, SOPs, and engineering change processes.
• Willingness to travel up to 30% as required.

• Experience in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, food & beverage, cold storage, or other regulated manufacturing industries.
• Familiarity with CO₂ refrigeration systems, cold chain operations, or warehouse automation technologies.
• Exposure to ASRS (Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems) or automated material handling systems.
• Understanding of Commissioning, Qualification, and Validation (CQV) processes.
• Knowledge of OT/IT integration, industrial networking, and data systems.
• Experience supporting continuous improvement and operational excellence initiatives.