Automation Specialist

Real; Breda; On-site; EUR 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Real in the Netherlands seeks an Automation Specialist to support GMP-compliant maintenance and operations of automation systems across shifts. You will lead automation tasks, troubleshoot PLC/SCADA/HMI, and ensure documentation integrity within a collaborative team.

The role requires 3+ years in a GMP manufacturing environment, strong English skills, and readiness for a 3-shift pattern now, with transition to a 5-shift roster later.

Qualifications

• MBO+ or higher in Automation, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics or related field.
• 3+ years in GMP-regulated manufacturing/packaging with automation focus.
• Experience maintaining/troubleshooting PLCs, SCADA, and HMI systems.

Responsibilities

• Perform advanced maintenance and operations on automation systems.
• Maintain daily work order documentation.
• Develop and review technical documents for automation.
• Provide training and coaching on automation topics to technicians.
• Serve as the automation lead within the team and escalate issues as needed.
• Support project implementation as Automation specialist in shift.

Skills

Automation systems

Troubleshooting

Documentation

English proficiency

Team collaboration

Shift work

Education

MBO+/degree in Automation

Electrical Engineering/Mechatronics

Tools

PLC

SCADA

HMI

Job description

This role will initially operate in a 3-shift pattern until February 2027, after which it will transition to a 5-shift pattern. As an Automation Specialist, you will support project implementation and operations within the shift structure. The 5-shift roster follows a rotation of early shift, early shift, late shift, late shift, night shift, night shift, followed by 4 days off.

Position Specific Tasks

• Perform advanced maintenance / operations, mechanical, electrical and level 1-3 computerized systems in support of Amgen facilities while assuring minimal impact to all facility and plant while in compliance with GMP (where required), Amgen regulations and policies, SOP's, and government codes and standards (NEN)
• Ensure that daily work order documentation is complete with accurate information.
• Maintain any other records as assigned and in compliance with all GMP documentation requirements (where applicable)
• Participate in any training programs that may be required e.g., technical, corporate
• Maintain high level of collaboration with peers and stakeholders and high level of customer satisfaction (MFG)
• Develop, revise and review technical documents for work-related areas
• Perform advanced troubleshooting in support of Amgen production facilities and related equipment and systems, with focus on automation systems (ISA model L1-3)
• Interpret/revise detailed drawings
• Act as functional lead for automation within the work team, train and coach Sr Maintenance Technicians on automation related topics. Create training documents, provide training and on the job coaching.
• Perform routine automation maintenance according to schedule and work instructions (e.g. create back ups/restore, equipment access, audit trail reviews), supporting patching activities of DTI group and continuously improve automation related PM (frequency, job plans, Wis)
• Establish remote connections for vendors according to Amgen standards for investigations, troubleshooting and projects. Log tickets with vendor hotlines to request support and communicate with hotline support/SMEs.
• Be first point of escalation for automation related problems, perform troubleshooting by applying advanced problem-solving methods and expertise and act as linking pin to Automation (Sr) Engineers and DTI team
• Support project implementation as Automation specialist in shift
• Monitor and optimize the performance of automation systems in packaging environment of ABR to ensure maximum efficiency and minimal downtime
• MBO+or's degree in Automation, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field; OR equivalent hands-on experience in a similar maintenance / automation role.
• 3+ years of experience in a GMP-regulated manufacturing or packaging environment, with a focus on automation systems.
• Proven experience maintaining and troubleshooting automation systems (e.g., PLCs, SCADA, HMI).
• Working knowledge of GMP standards and maintenance of computerized systems in compliance with regulatory requirements
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with peers, stakeholders, and support functions.
• Proficiency in English (written and verbal) to ensure accurate documentation and clear communication.
• Willingness and ability to work in shift-based operations, including occasional off-hours support.
• Ability to serve as the first point of escalation for automation-related issues.

Preferred Requirements

• Maintenance reliability or GMP compliance certifications (e.g., CMRT, ISA).
• Experience training and mentoring technicians, including creating and delivering technical training materials.
• Experience supporting automation initiatives or acting as automation lead within a team