Automation Engineer

ZipRecruiter; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology recruiter is seeking an Automation Engineer to join a new R&D site in Birmingham. This role involves leading automation projects, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and designing specifications. The ideal candidate will have a degree in engineering and experience with DeltaV DCS systems. A competitive salary package of £70,000 plus benefits is offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary package

Opportunity for growth in R&D

Dynamic work environment

Qualifications

• Degree (BSc/MSc) in relevant engineering field.
• Strong background in automation system design and validation.
• Experience with compliance and regulatory standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead automation elements of capital projects.
• Manage project life cycles ensuring safety and compliance.
• Troubleshoot and resolve control system issues.

Skills

Automation system design

Emerson DeltaV DCS systems

Rockwell Automation FactoryTalk & ControlLogix

Troubleshooting bioprocessing operations

Leadership and communication

Education

Degree in Electrical Engineering or related

Tools

CIP/COP systems

HVAC systems

Job description

Overview

Automation Engineer – R&D

Location: Birmingham, UK

Salary: £70,000 per annum + benefits

Contract Type: Permanent

What You’ll Be Doing

• Leading and delivering automation elements of major capital projects, from design and specification through to commissioning and validation.
• Managing project life cycles to ensure safety, quality, and compliance with deadlines.
• Designing detailed automation specifications, SOPs, and technical standards.
• Overseeing automation within a GMP-regulated manufacturing environment.
• Troubleshooting control system issues, leading root cause investigations, and ensuring robust solutions.
• Configuring, testing, and validating both new and existing process equipment.
• Supporting new product introductions and technology transfers through automation system changes and assessments.
• Developing innovative approaches to complex engineering challenges.
• Promoting safe working practices in line with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Offering flexibility to support 24/7 operations when required.

What We’re Looking For

• Degree (BSc/MSc) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Chemical Engineering, Biotech Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Strong background in automation system design, installation, programming, and validation.
• Experience with:
• Emerson DeltaV DCS systems (v11 or above).
• Rockwell Automation FactoryTalk & ControlLogix PLC platforms.
• Knowledge of regulatory standards such as 21 CFR Part 11, GAMP, S88, and S95.
• Proficiency with engineering documentation (URS, SDS, IQ, OQ, VSR).
• Strong leadership, communication, and technical writing skills.
• Hands-on expertise in troubleshooting bioprocessing operations (e.g., bioreactors, chromatography, filtration).
• Familiarity with CIP/COP systems, autoclaves, HVAC, purified water systems, and building automation systems.
• Solid understanding of GMP/cGMP within pharmaceutical or biotech production.
• Experience in change control, CAPA, and validation practices.

Why Apply?

• Opportunity to join at a pivotal stage and influence the direction of a new R&D site.
• Competitive salary package of £70,000 per annum plus benefits.
• Chance to work on cutting-edge technologies within the pharmaceutical/biotech sector.
• Be part of a dynamic, forward-thinking environment where innovation and compliance go hand in hand.