Automation Controls Engineer

STAQ Pharma; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

STAQ Pharma is seeking an Automation Controls Engineer to support facility automation and monitoring in Columbus, Ohio and Denver, Colorado. This hands-on role involves programming and maintaining PLCs/HMIs, supporting SCADA/BMS, and working on new and existing equipment in a cGMP environment.

You'll join a small team that values initiative and ownership, with travel between sites and occasional vendor visits for FAT/SAT.

Qualifications

• 3+ years hands-on automation or controls experience in a regulated manufacturing environment.
• PLC, HMI, and VFD programming and troubleshooting experience.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience; certifications considered.

Responsibilities

• Program, troubleshoot, and maintain PLCs across Rockwell, Siemens, and B&R platforms with HMIs and Ignition.
• Configure and tune VFDs on pumps, fans, and process motors; support SCADA and BMS systems.
• Assist with commissioning, FAT/SAT, validation activities, and serialization systems.
• Install sensor-based data collection; collaborate with IT on cybersecurity for control systems.
• Provide after-hours support and train other departments on automated equipment; travel between sites.

Skills

Automation experience

PLC programming

HMI programming

VFD programming

Troubleshooting

Engineering degree

Project management

Technical writing

Cybersecurity awareness

Travel willingness

US work authorization

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical, or Computer Engineering

Equivalent experience or certifications

Job description

Position Summary

We are seeking an Automation Controls Engineer to support the technical aspects of facility automation and monitoring across our manufacturing operations in Columbus, Ohio and Denver, Colorado. This is a hands‑on role for someone who is equally comfortable at the desk and on the production floor. You will help program and maintain PLCs and HMIs, support our SCADA and building management systems, troubleshoot operational issues, and contribute to projects on both new and existing equipment in a cGMP environment.

As a small, focused team, we wear several hats and value people who take initiative and own problems from start to finish. Our 503B facilities are clean and comfortable to work in, but breakdowns happen, and we work hard together to keep production running when they do.

Responsibilities

• Program, troubleshoot, and maintain PLCs across Rockwell (Allen‑Bradley), Siemens, and B&R platforms, along with their respective HMIs and Ignition.
• Configure, tune, and troubleshoot variable frequency drives (VFDs) on pumps, fans, and process motors.
• Support the set‑up, maintenance, and documentation of SCADA systems, including configurations, network diagrams, and operational procedures.
• Monitor and support the Building Management System (BMS) and environmental/facility monitoring systems.
• Assist with commissioning and verification of PLC, HMI, and serialization systems, and support FAT, SAT, and validation activities.
• Help implement, troubleshoot, and maintain filling, packaging, labeling, and vision/inspection systems.
• Install sensor‑based systems to collect production data and monitor production status.
• Collaborate with IT to procure and install hardware/software and help maintain cybersecurity standards for control systems.
• Provide responsive technical support for equipment troubleshooting at both facilities, including occasional after‑hours coverage for breakdowns.
• Assist in training other departments on the operation of automated equipment.
• Travel between the Columbus and Denver sites as needed, with occasional travel to vendor facilities for FAT and SAT.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation and perform other duties as assigned.

Required Skills and Experience

• 3+ years of hands‑on automation or controls experience (ideally in a regulated manufacturing environment).
• Demonstrated PLC, HMI, and VFD programming and troubleshooting experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical, or Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field. Equivalent experience or industry certifications will also be considered.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills, with a willingness to get out on the floor.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and projects at once.
• Solid written and verbal communication and technical writing skills.
• Awareness of cybersecurity best practices for automation and control systems.
• Willing and able to travel domestically, primarily between Columbus and Denver. Passport, or willingness to obtain one, for occasional international vendor travel.
• Authorized to work in the United States.

Preferred (Pluses)

• PLC programming experience with Rockwell and Siemens (a significant plus).
• Experience with variable frequency drives such as Rockwell PowerFlex or Schneider Electric Altivar.
• Ignition experience.
• cGMP and 21 CFR Part 11 experience.
• A strong interest and aptitude in computers and IT.
• Experience with building management or facility monitoring systems.

Physical Requirements

• A mix of desk‑based work and time on the production floor, including periods of standing and walking.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.

The application window for this position is anticipated to be open at least 40 days.