Automation Engineer

THE POSITION The Automation Engineer is responsible for maintaining and improving site automation technologies, including production equipment and building automation systems. The role combines hands-on technical work with project support, covering design, programming, troubleshooting and lifecycle management of control systems. The position contributes to production continuity, supports engineering and maintenance activities, and ensures that automation systems operate in line with regulatory and internal standards while enabling future site development.

This is a fixed-term contract until 31st December 2027.Tasks and Responsibilities The person in this role will support both day-to-day operations and project activities related to automation systems. In particular, they will:

Maintain and troubleshoot automation systems (including production and building automation) to ensure system reliability and minimize production downtime, while managing documentation, backups and system records

Deliver automation support for engineering and maintenance projects, including design, programming and implementation of control systems, while ensuring alignment with scope, timelines, budgets and global standards

Lead or contribute to automation projects and continuous improvement initiatives, coordinating stakeholders, managing deliverables and supporting long-term site automation strategy and roadmap

Ensure systems operate in a compliant manner by adhering to internal procedures, industry standards and regulatory requirements, including supporting audits and implementing corrective and preventive actions

Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams (operations, maintenance, engineering, validation, IT) and external vendors to support system performance and project execution

Evaluate and implement new technologies, build internal expertise and provide knowledge sharing and training within the team

Requirements

Hands-on experience with industrial automation systems, including PLCs, HMI/SCADA, building automation and control systems

Strong knowledge of PLC programming (e.g. ladder, function block, structured text) and industrial control architectures

Understanding of low voltage control systems (relays, safety circuits, drives) and industrial devices and interfaces (sensors, I/O, fieldbus, networking)
Experience supporting the full system lifecycle (design, implementation, troubleshooting, upgrades and documentation)
Familiarity with HMI/SCADA platforms and building automation systems

Experience working in a pharmaceutical environment or another highly regulated industry

Knowledge of GAMP5 (Good Automated Manufacturing Practice) methodology

Understanding of project delivery and ability to manage priorities in a fast-paced environment

Awareness of operational technology cybersecurity principles

Strong communication and collaboration skills

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Control Systems or a related fieldA Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be required for the successful candidate. Any offer of employment will be subject to satisfactory DBS certificate.

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