Automation Engineering Lead — GMP/Pharma Systems

Bachem Holding AG; Vista (CA); On-site; USD 139,000 - 192,000; Full time

Job summary

Bachem Americas in Vista, CA, seeks a Sr. Manager, Automation Engineering to lead the automation function in a regulated pharmaceutical manufacturing environment.

The role provides technical direction for automation strategy, standards, project execution, system compliance, and digital manufacturing initiatives. You will partner with Manufacturing, Engineering, Facilities, Quality, Validation, IT/OT, and global teams to ensure reliable, compliant systems, manage budgets, vendors, and programs,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field (or equivalent work experience)
• Master’s degree in a relevant field preferred
• 10+ years of automation/controls/engineering experience
• 3+ years leading engineers or automation programs
• Experience in regulated manufacturing environments (pharma/biotech)
• Experience with SCADA/HMI platforms and PLC/DCS/BMS systems
• Knowledge of cGMP, 21 CFR Part 11, data integrity, and validated systems

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the automation engineering team for automation systems across manufacturing and utilities
• Provide leadership and technical oversight for automation scope in capital projects and process improvements
• Develop and execute the site automation strategy, standards, roadmaps, and lifecycle management
• Ensure compliant design, qualification, change control, documentation, and lifecycle support of automation systems
• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Engineering, Facilities, Quality, Validation, IT/OT, and vendors to optimize reliability and performance
• Develop team capabilities through coaching, mentoring, SOPs, and technical guidance
• Manage department planning, resources, budgets, vendor coordination, and project milestones

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Problem solving

Mentoring

Safety awareness

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Ignition

FactoryTalk View ME/SE

WinCC

Copadata Zenon

PlantPAX

iFIX

OSI PI

MSSQL

Job description

Bachem Americas in Vista, CA, seeks a Sr. Manager, Automation Engineering to lead the automation function in a regulated pharmaceutical manufacturing environment.

The role provides technical direction for automation strategy, standards, project execution, system compliance, and digital manufacturing initiatives. You will partner with Manufacturing, Engineering, Facilities, Quality, Validation, IT/OT, and global teams to ensure reliable, compliant systems, manage budgets, vendors, and programs,