Principal Automation Project Engineer

Takeda Pharmaceuticals; Round Lake (IL); On-site; USD 99,000 - 157,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in pharmaceuticals is seeking an Automation Engineer to enhance automation systems for packaging and filling operations. This role involves collaboration across teams to ensure system reliability, manage troubleshooting, and drive continuous improvements while adhering to strict industry standards.

Benefits

401(k) plan with company match

Short-term and long-term disability coverage

Tuition reimbursement program

Paid volunteer time off

Sick time and vacation benefits

Qualifications

• 5+ years of related experience in FDA regulated environment.
• Strong programming/design hands-on experience with Automation Systems.
• Track record of successfully executing automation and control system projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead execution of process and production systems support.
• Develop and review automation of manufacturing processes.
• Provide hands-on technical support for diagnostics and troubleshooting.

Skills

Automation Systems

FANUC Robotics

Cognex

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

Rockwell applications

Studio 5000

FactoryTalk View ME

Job description

By clicking the “Apply” button, I understand that my employment application process with Takeda will commence and that the information I provide in my application will be processed in line with Takeda’sPrivacy Notice and Terms of Use. I further attest that all information I submit in my employment application is true to the best of my knowledge.

Job Description

About the Role:

The Automation Engineer, Engineer IV will focus on automation for Packaging and Filling functions, advanced robotics applications integration, and visual inspections in a 24/7 manufacturing operation.This role will ensure the optimal and cost-effective performance of processing systems, visual inspection systems, and other automation technologies for filling and packaging lines at the Round Lake Site. This role requires close collaboration with Process Engineering, Maintenance, and Operations teams to provide timely troubleshooting support for production issues, ensuring minimal downtime and continuous improvement. The engineer will own the resolution of recurring issues, drive root cause analysis (RCA) design, and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) to enhance system reliability. By applying advanced engineering knowledge, this role contributes to the successful execution of departmental projects and goals.

How you will Contribute:

• Independently lead the execution of process and production systems support, ensuring timely resolution of issues and minimizing production downtime. Proactively identify and implement system improvements based on data analysis, technical expertise, and industry best practices, ensuring increased reliability and operational efficiency..

• Schedule execution of a wide range of automation systems projects, from medium to large capital expenditures by working in cross-functional teams as the engineering lead/representative .

• Assess existing equipment and control systems in the various manufacturing areas and determine the required changes to meet the design and reliability requirements.

• Develop and review the automation of themanufacturing process, support equipment and systems, design drawings and documents, and equipment procurement packages.

• Serve as a technical approver for protocols and support documentation (e.g., engineering change requests, system change forms), ensuring compliance with validation requirements and readiness for project executionCreate or update technical support specifications (Design/Functional/System) related to project assignments.

• Supervise contractors and junior-level engineering personnel on projects and activities.

• Demonstrates leadership in cross-functional teams, drives decision-making under pressure, and adapts to evolving project needs.

• Demonstrate continuous improvement with respect to increasing job knowledge and proficiency related to engineering in the biopharmaceutical industry, as well as technical understanding/problem-solving capability.

• Provide hands-on technical support for diagnostics and troubleshooting of automation systems during production, working closely with maintenance to ensure rapid issue resolution and drive continuous design improvements. Lead the design, implementation, and validation of changes of processing / packaging and vision systems, ensuring strict adherence to change control standards and minimizing impact on ongoing operations.Perform events investigation related to automation system and implement the corrective Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions for packaging and filling and processing systems.

• Develop and deliver targeted training on critical automation systems to maintenance and production personnel, ensuring skill enhancement and improved troubleshooting capability.

What you bring to Takeda:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (preferably in Electrical, Mechanical, or Mechatronics Technology).

• 5+ years of related experience in FDA regulated environment.

• Strong programming/design “hands-on” experience with Automation Systems , FANUC Robotics and Cognex.

• Experience supporting of control systems in a Pharmaceutical Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) environment.

• Must demonstrate a track record of successfully executing automation and control system projects supporting operating facilities, in a FDA-regulated manufacturing environment.

• Possess knowledge of core principles in various engineering disciplines, including manufacturing .

• Must have basic knowledge in the automation of pharmaceutical or food processing facilities.

• Must have familiarity with industry standards for batch control systems, software development life cycle methodologies, 21 CFR Part 11, and GAMP.

• Display a solid understanding of theories/practices utilized by other disciplines outside primary area of expertise.

• Must have excellent organizational, verbal and written communication skills; able to efficiently communicate with - functional teams and management on recommended course of action, with minimal assistance.

• Must have proficient computer skills and be experienced using Rockwell applications such as Studio 5000 and FactoryTalk View ME, Cogenx and Fanuc Robotics applications

• Must have good interpersonal skills and be able to work effectively and efficiently in a team-based environment.

• Knowledge of programmable logic controllers, industrial controllers, instrumentation, network designs, communication protocols and controls is highly desirable.

• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and work on multiple projects simultaneously.

• Participate in rotating after-hour daily, weekend and holiday schedules for emergency escalation support calls related to troubleshooting and maintenance assistance with technical issues.

• Must be a self-starter, detail oriented and able to work independently with minimal supervision.

• Must embrace working in a fast-paced, team-oriented, cross-functional environment.

• Must possess the ability to manage commitments and display eagerness to learn and continuously improve.

Important Considerations:

At Takeda, our patients rely on us to deliver quality products. As a result, we must follow strict rules in our manufacturing facilities to ensure we are not endangering the quality of the product. In this role, you may:

• Will occasionally work in a cleanroom environment and wear special garments (requires removal of make-up and jewelry).

• Must occasionally wear personal protective equipment (e.g. hard hats, safety shoes, safety glasses, ear plugs) due to safety requirements in specific areas.

• Will occasionally work around chemicals such as alcohol, acids, caustics, buffers and bleach that may require respiratory protection.

• May occasionally climb ladders and stairs to higher elevations.

• May occasionally work weekends, evenings, and off-hours,for extended periods

More about us:

At Takeda, we are transforming patient care through the development of novel specialty pharmaceuticals and best in class patient support programs. Takeda is a patient-focused company that will inspire and empower you to grow through life-changing work.

Certified as a Global Top Employer, Takeda offers stimulating careers, encourages innovation, and strives for excellence in everything we do. We foster an inclusive, collaborative workplace, in which our teams are united by an unwavering commitment to deliver Better Health and a Brighter Future to people around the world.

This posting excludes Colorado applicants.

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Takeda Compensation and Benefits Summary

We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. We are committed to equitable pay for all employees, and we strive to be more transparent with our pay practices.

For Location:

USA - IL - Round Lake - Drug Delivery

U.S. Base Salary Range:

$99,500.00 - $156,420.00

The estimated salary range reflects an anticipated range for this position. The actual base salary offered may depend on a variety of factors, including the qualifications of the individual applicant for the position, years of relevant experience, specific and unique skills, level of education attained, certifications or other professional licenses held, and the location in which the applicant lives and/or from which they will be performing the job.The actual base salary offered will be in accordance with state or local minimum wage requirements for the job location.

U.S. based employees may be eligible for short-term and/or long-termincentives. U.S.based employees may be eligible to participate in medical, dental, vision insurance, a 401(k) plan and company match, short-term and long-term disability coverage, basic life insurance, a tuition reimbursement program, paid volunteer time off, company holidays, and well-being benefits, among others. U.S.based employees are also eligible to receive, per calendar year, up to 80 hours of sick time, and new hires are eligible to accrue up to 120 hours of paid vacation.

EEO Statement

Takeda is proud in its commitment to creating a diverse workforce and providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, national origin, age, disability, citizenship status, genetic information or characteristics, marital status, status as a Vietnam era veteran, special disabled veteran, or other protected veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws, and any other characteristic protected by law.

Locations

USA - IL - Round Lake - Drug Delivery

Worker Type

Employee

Worker Sub-Type

Regular

Time Type

Full time

Job Exempt

Yes