Automation and Controls Engineer

Elvis Eckardt Recruitment & Sales Solutions Limited; Decatur (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking an Automation and Controls Engineer to enhance automated systems in a pharmaceutical manufacturing setting. This role involves leading engineering projects, ensuring compliance with FDA regulations, and collaborating across departments to boost operational efficiency. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with PLCs, SCADA systems, and a strong understanding of regulatory standards. Join a dynamic team that values innovation and excellence in a supportive environment, where you can make a significant impact on the manufacturing process and contribute to high-quality product delivery.

Benefits

Full health coverage: medical, dental, vision

Short/Long Term Disability

100% 401K match up to 4%

PTO + 8 paid holidays

Health Savings Plans

Life Insurance for employees and family

Relocation assistance available

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in automation and controls in pharmaceutical manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of FDA regulations and compliance standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead engineering design and installation of automated systems.
• Troubleshoot PLCs and SCADA systems to optimize performance.
• Ensure compliance with cGMP and regulatory documentation standards.

Skills

Automation and Controls

PLC Programming

SCADA Systems

Troubleshooting

Project Leadership

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering

Bachelor's Degree in Software Engineering

Tools

Allen-Bradley PLCs

AutoCAD

BMRAM software

Building Management Systems (BMS)

Job description

Job Title: Automation and Controls Engineer

Location: Decatur, Illinois, USA

Job Type: Full-Time, Onsite

Domain: Pharmaceuticals / Biotechnology / Clinical Research

Experience Required: 7–15 years

Work Authorization: US Citizen / Green Card Holder / H1B Transfer / TN Visa / OPT EAD

Position Summary:

The Automation and Controls Engineer will play a pivotal role in maintaining, upgrading, and optimizing automated systems and process controls across Rising Pharma's manufacturing facility. You will lead key engineering projects, support compliance with FDA regulations, and collaborate cross-functionally to drive operational excellence and ensure high system reliability.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead engineering design, maintenance, and installation of automated process, facility, and software systems
• Troubleshoot and optimize PLCs, SCADA systems, HMIs, and electromechanical equipment (Allen-Bradley essential)
• Plan, schedule, and manage control system upgrade projects aligned with FDA and industry compliance
• Support validation and metrology teams in equipment qualification per CSV (Computerized System Validation) standards
• Ensure documentation aligns with cGMP and regulatory compliance (change controls, CAPA, SOPs, deviations)
• Utilize AutoCAD, Windows systems, and BMRAM software for engineering design and diagnostics
• Collaborate with all departments to improve automation reliability, reduce downtime, and streamline data collection
• Maintain excellent cross-functional communication and complete all documentation to GMP standards

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, or related field with equivalent experience
• Minimum 7 years of hands-on experience in automation and controls in a pharmaceutical manufacturing setting
• Expertise in Allen-Bradley PLCs and HMI/SCADA system programming
• Strong knowledge of 21 CFR Part 11, GAMP 5, and FDA-compliant automation
• Familiarity with QMS systems, especially around SOPs, deviations, CAPA, and change controls
• Proven project leadership in upgrading control systems (PLC/SCADA/HMI)
• Experience with Building Management Systems (BMS) and process utilities
• Comfortable working on-site, across shifts, with some potential overtime or on-call responsibilities

Nice To Have Qualifications:

• Experience with Siemens and B & R automation systems
• Familiarity with OSI PI, Delta-V, and data acquisition tools
• Prior exposure to robotic systems, VFDs (e.g. Siemens G120), and high-voltage troubleshooting

Compensation:

• Competitive Salary
• Full health coverage: medical, dental, vision
• Short/Long Term Disability
• 100% 401K match up to 4%
• PTO + 8 paid holidays
• Health Savings Plans
• Life Insurance for employees and family
• Relocation assistance available (case-by-case basis)

Contact Person: Elvis Eckard