Principal Automation Engineer, Site Services

Roche; South San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 138,000 - 258,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Principal Automation Engineer to join their Site Services team. This pivotal role involves overseeing automation systems across multiple sites, ensuring optimal performance, and driving strategic initiatives. The ideal candidate will bring over a decade of experience in control system design and automation, along with a strong proficiency in leading technologies like Rockwell FactoryTalk and Siemens systems. This position offers a unique opportunity to influence the future of automation in a dynamic environment, where your expertise will contribute significantly to operational excellence and innovation. If you are passionate about automation and ready to take on new challenges, this role is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in control system design and automation.
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering preferred.
• Proficiency in PLC/SCADA systems and data systems.

Responsibilities

• Act as Technical System Owner for building automation systems.
• Identify and resolve hardware and software issues.
• Lead technical initiatives for system design and integration.

Skills

Control System Design

Automation

Integration

Troubleshooting

Interpersonal Skills

Project Management

Continuous Improvement (LEAN/Six Sigma)

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering

Master's Degree in Engineering

Tools

Rockwell FactoryTalk SCADA

Siemens Desigo CC

Aveeva PI

PLC/SCADA Systems

Kepware OPC

Windows Server

Job description

Principal Automation Engineer, Site Services

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Position Overview

As part of the Site Operations organization, the Principal Automation Engineer is a key member of the Site Automation team, responsible for the technical ownership and support of automation systems across Genentech’s South San Francisco (SSF) and Dixon sites. This role involves installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of automation infrastructure in over 50 buildings covering approximately 6 million square feet. The role also includes strategic input into campus automation system design, communication with key stakeholders, and support for capital projects, business initiatives, process improvements, and regulatory inspections. The ideal candidate will have expertise in Rockwell Automation controls, communication protocols (MQTT, BacNet), and Aveeva PI.

Responsibilities

• Act as Technical System Owner (TSO) for various building automation and process control systems, including Rockwell FactoryTalk SCADA, Siemens Desigo CC, Aveeva PI, and server infrastructure.
• Identify and resolve hardware and software issues, manage change control, and oversee server infrastructure including system patching and documentation.
• Provide proactive customer support in a 24x7 environment, working closely with Site Operations teams at SSF and Dixon.
• Lead technical initiatives influencing system design, performance, and integration of smart technologies and automated solutions.
• Develop and maintain vendor relationships, support contracts, and vendor resources.
• Mentor peers and junior engineers to foster technical growth.

Qualifications

• Over 10 years of experience in control system design, automation, and integration in research and manufacturing settings.
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering (Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical, or related field) preferred.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Experience working with system integrators for control system design and implementation.
• Strong troubleshooting skills for equipment and instrumentation.
• Proficiency in PLC/SCADA systems (Rockwell Studio 5000 & FactoryTalk, Siemens Simatic), data systems (Aveeva PI, Kepware OPC), and related technologies.
• Additional skills in Siemens Desigo CC, WebCTRL, IIS Web Applications, Windows Server, databases, Active Directory, and group policies are a plus.
• Continuous improvement mindset using methodologies like LEAN/Six Sigma.
• Understanding of cGMP regulations and Good Engineering Practices (GEP).

This position is not eligible for relocation benefits. Salary range is $138,500 - $257,100 USD annually, based on experience and location. Benefits details are available via the provided link.

Additional Information

Genentech is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. Accommodations for applicants with disabilities are available upon request. Roche strictly prohibits unlawful discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, age, disability, or other protected characteristics.