Automation Engineer

Job Title:

Automation Engineer – Manufacturing Operations Job Description

This role focuses on developing, installing, and supporting automated systems and equipment that enable reliable, efficient manufacturing operations at a Raleigh-based imaging site. The Automation Engineer optimizes process control and instrumentation systems across the plant, serves as a key technical resource for distributed control systems and PLC-based automation, and leads medium to large automation projects from concept through implementation in a highly regulated, cGMP-compliant environment.

• Develop, install, and support automated systems and equipment that directly support manufacturing operations at the Raleigh imaging facility.
• Design and execute plans to optimize process control and instrumentation systems throughout the plant, improving reliability, efficiency, and product quality.
• Establish and refine work processes and administrative controls, and deploy key functions that ensure robust automation and control performance.
• Provide technical support for a wide variety of instrumentation and control equipment, including troubleshooting and resolving complex electronic and mechanical issues.
• Actively participate as a team member on assigned plant projects, collaborating closely with project engineers, process engineers, mechanics, facilities personnel, and operations staff.
• Ensure all equipment is designed, maintained, and managed for maximum utility and favorable total cost of ownership.
• Serve as a key technical resource for automated systems with a strong focus on preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, and problem resolution.
• Program, configure, and troubleshoot distributed control systems (DCS), PLCs, SCADA systems, and human-machine interfaces (HMIs).
• Perform tasks in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and update SOPs as needed to reflect best practices and current processes.
• Develop, review, and interpret electrical drawings and other technical documentation in support of plant processes and automation systems.
• Communicate ideas, project status, and concerns clearly and effectively when working with cross-functional teams and internal stakeholders.
• Manage historical production data in accordance with current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs), ensuring data integrity and compliance.
• Work with internal customers and implementation resources to understand project requirements and translate them into effective automation solutions.
• Manage medium to large automation projects, monitoring scope, schedule, and budget to ensure alignment with the project plan.
• Create and maintain project schedules using project management software such as Microsoft Project or similar tools.
• Deliver regular status updates to leadership, partners, and internal resources, highlighting progress, risks, and mitigation plans.
• Prioritize and balance competing project demands and conflicting requirements to meet business and regulatory needs.
• Develop and manage Change Requests, Exceptions, and Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPAs) in accordance with site procedures.
• Work safely in accordance with applicable regulations, standards, and procedures, minimizing risk to health, safety, and the environment.
• Notify management promptly of unsafe conditions or practices, unlawful activities, or activities that present unreasonable health or environmental risk.
• Report all safety and environmental incidents to management immediately and accurately.
• Enforce environmental, health, and safety (EHS) procedures and respond to EHS concerns within your area of operational responsibility.
• Conduct thorough incident investigations for safety or environmental events that occur within your scope of responsibility.
• Follow through on all safety-related corrective actions within the department to ensure issues are resolved and improvements sustained.

• 3–5 years of experience in programming, maintaining, and troubleshooting Distributed Control Systems (DCS) and PLC/HMI-based automation in an industrial setting.
• Hands‑on experience with Distributed Control Systems, with Foxboro I/A System strongly preferred.
• Hands‑on experience…