Automation Engineer Co-op Spring 2027

Randstad USA; Bedford (MA); On-site; USD 34,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical

Prescription

Dental

Vision

AD&D

Life insurance

Short-term disability

401K plan

Job summary

MilliporeSigma is seeking an Automation Engineer Co‑op to support development, testing, and documentation of automation systems in R&D. You will work with the Automation and Applications teams, gaining hands-on exposure to PLCs, HMIs, and machine control.

Approximately 80% of the role focuses on technical documentation, with the remainder on hands-on testing to verify requirements and system functionality, under GxP and GAMP 5 methodologies.

Qualifications

• Actively enrolled in an accredited academic program.
• Interest or exposure to automation software/hardware.
• Experience with Python and Java and strong writing skills.

Responsibilities

• Execute test protocols and verify automation systems meet requirements.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation for automation software.
• Create software and system specifications from existing solutions.
• Document testing activities and results per quality standards.

Skills

Python

Java

Technical writing

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Automation Engineering

Bachelor's or Master's in Software Engineering

High School (as stated)

Tools

PLC

HMIs

Job description

THIS IS A 6-MONTH CO-OP STARTING JANUARY 4, 2027 THROUGH JUNE 25TH, 2027. TO QUALIFY, THE CANDIDATE HAS TO BE ACTIVELY ENROLLED IN AN ACADEMIC PROGRAM

At MilliporeSigma, they are at the forefront of life sciences, working tirelessly to tackle the industry's toughest challenges. By collaborating with the global scientific community, they strive to enhance health access worldwide. Their mission is clear: to equip scientists and engineers with top-notch lab materials, technologies, and services, making research and biotech production simpler, faster, and more successful. With a dedication to shaping the future of drug development, they’re with our customers every step of the way, pioneering tomorrow's possibilities.

Position Summary

We are seeking an Automation Engineer Co-op to support the development, testing, and documentation of automation systems used within R&D. This role will work closely with the Automation and Applications teams and will provide hands‑on exposure to software/hardware engineering, machine control, PLCs, HMIs, and system testing.

Approximately 80% of the role will focus on technical documentation, including developing and updating software specifications, test protocols, and other controlled documents. The remaining time will involve hands‑on testing and execution of automation systems to verify that they meet defined requirements.

Required Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in:
  • Automation Engineering
  • Software Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering with relevant automation experience
• strong interest in pursuing a career in automation engineering, software/hardware engineering, or machine control.
• Experience with Python and Java
• Interest or academic exposure to PLCs, HMIs, machine controls, or industrial automation.
• strong technical writing and documentation skills.
• Ability to understand technical systems and translate technical information into clear, structured documentation.
• strong attention to detail and ability to follow established procedures and documentation standards.

salary: $25 - $32 per hour

shift: First

work hours: 8 AM - 4 PM

education: High School

Responsibilities

• Execute test protocols to verify that automation systems and software meet specified requirements.
• Develop, update, and maintain technical documentation for automation systems and software.
• Create software and system specifications based on existing automation solutions.
• Develop and/or execute test protocols to verify software functionality and system requirements.
• Reverse engineer existing automation solutions to understand system functionality and translate that information into accurate technical documentation.
• Document testing activities, results, and system functionality in accordance with established quality and documentation standards.
• Support documentation activities following GxP and GAMP 5 methodologies.
• Ensure official documentation is complete, accurate, traceable, and suitable for use within a regulated environment.
• Work directly with R&D software and automation systems supporting Millipore products.
• Collaborate with the Applications team to understand system functionality, product applications, and how customers/users interact with the technology.
• Work with Automation Engineering and cross-functional teams to identify documentation gaps and support improvements to existing documentation.

Skills

• PLC programming (6 months of experience is preferred)
• automation systems (6 months of experience is preferred)

Qualifications

• Years of experience: 0 years
• Experience level: Entry Level

Experience

• Entry Level

Education

• High School (required)

Equal Opportunity Employer: Race, Color, Religion, Sex, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, National Origin, Age, Genetic Information, Disability, Protected Veteran Status, or any other legally protected group status.

At Randstad, we welcome people of all abilities and want to ensure that our hiring and interview process meets the needs of all applicants. If you require a reasonable accommodation to make your application or interview experience a great one, please contact [e-mail].

• medical
• prescription
• dental
• vision
• AD&D
• life insurance offerings
• short-term disability
• 401K plan

This posting is open for thirty (30) days.

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.