Automation Engineer

Germer International - Pharmaceutical Recruiting; New Jersey; On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Germer International - Pharmaceutical Recruiting seeks a control systems engineer to develop and commission PLC and SCADA applications for Rockwell and SCADA platforms. The role requires hands-on coding, testing, and on-site commissioning with about 10% travel.

A four-year engineering degree and at least three years of control system design/programming experience are required, along with a valid driver’s license and familiarity with cGMP practices.

Qualifications

• Develop and configure PLC programs for ControlLogix/CompactLogix/PLC-5.
• Build SCADA applications with WonderWare or GE iFix.
• Configure PC-based relational databases and SQL reporting.

Responsibilities

• Develop PLC and SCADA code for control systems.
• Review and approve control system drawings (P&ID, schematics).
• Provide commissioning, training, and service support.
• Travel to customer sites for commissioning and support (~10%).
• Interface with suppliers and project teams to meet schedules.

Skills

PLC programming

SCADA development

Field instrumentation

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, or engineering technology

Tools

Rockwell RSLogix

WonderWare

GE iFix

SQL databases

Job description

• The ability to develop (not modify), test, and commission Allen Bradley PLC (ControlLogix and/or PLC-5) control system applications using RSLogix. Recent experience is a must. Higher level skills that are required include analog data handling, data exchanges, recipe handling, etc.
• The ability to develop (not modify), test, and commission SCADA (Wonderware and/or GE iFix) control system applications. Recent experience is a must. Higher level skills that are required include scripting, security configuration, recipe configuration, database interfacing, report configuration, etc.
• Overnight travel (approx. 10%) to customer sites to perform commissioning, customer training, validation support, warrantee support, and service support for equipment and control systems.
• The ability to specify, purchase, and troubleshoot control system hardware and instrumentation. This would include field mounted and panel mounted instruments.
• The ability to read, understand, and develop control system design documents. This would include Functional Specifications, User’s Manual, and engineering reports.
• The ability to review and approve control system design drawings for accuracy and conformance to standards. This would include P&ID, control system schematics, panel layout drawings and interconnect drawings.
• Must be aware of cGMP’s procedures and practices and the implication on control system development and modifications.
• Ability to set up, configure, and test computers with various hardware and software features that are included in control system design.
• Must have good troubleshooting skills.
• Must be able to build customer relationships and be committed to providing our customers with the best service in the industry.
• Must be proficient at handling multiple assignments.
• Prior experience in validation is desirable.

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Minimum of a four-year degree in engineering, computer science, or engineering technology.
• Minimum of three years of experience in control system design and programming.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Confined space entry training is required for potential entry into confined spaces within supplied equipment.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

• Develop and customize PLC application code using Rockwell RSLogix software for ControlLogix, CompactLogix, and PLC-5 series controllers/PLCs.
• Develop and customize SCADA application code using WonderWare and/or GE iFix SCADA software.
• Develop and configure PC based relational databases, SQL data transfer, and database reporting tools.
• Set up, configure, and test computers with various hardware and software features that are included in company's control system design.
• Integrate thin client and virtualization technology/hardware.
• Review and approve control system design drawings. This includes diagrams/drawings (P&ID, control system schematics, panel layout drawings and interconnect drawings). Provide technical support to the CAD group when appropriate.
• Develop control system design specifications. This includes Functional Specifications, User’s Manual, Sequence of Operations, Detailed Design Specifications, etc.
• Develop proficiency in the understanding and application of Process Automation departmental standards (software, hardware, documentation, etc.). These standards are to be followed in development of company control systems.
• Develop and execute software test protocols.
• Develop and customize simulation code for use during software testing.
• Specify and purchase control system hardware and instrumentation.
• Work as an integral member of a project team.
• Interface with the company equipment manufacturing companies and internal departments to obtain a complete understanding of the company equipment and control system scope of supply, project schedule, customer specifications, and project budget.
• Develop the control system in accordance with the project schedule and budget.
• Effectively communicate project delays, scope changes, customer relationship issues, technical deficiencies, etc. to the company project team and to company management.
• Provide commissioning services, customer training, validation support, warrantee support, and service support for company equipment and control systems.
• Prepare documents of field visits in a timely and professional manner. This will include commissioning reports, field service reports, daily labor logs, invoices, and expense reports.
• Remain current with emerging industry standards and products. Keep abreast of latest trends in software, instrumentation, and control system hardware.
• Develop, maintain, and enhance positive interpersonal relationships with staff members of the company Group worldwide.
• Ensure company and RDG customers receive high quality automation solutions and support.
• Provide support to company's Sales Department. This support will include pre-sales support and visits, supplying technical information, reviewing bid specifications, and/or preparing quotations and pricing information.
• Inspect, test, and release company control panels that are manufactured by outside vendors.
• Provide emergency support to our customers who are experiencing problems with their company equipment and/or control systems.
• Develop an understanding of the typical operation of company process equipment.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.