Senior Automation Engineer

Zoetis Inc; Marietta (GA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Zoetis Inc. is seeking a Sr. Automation Engineer to manage on-site automation systems (BMS, PMS, EMS, PCS) and IT/OT architecture, ensuring Zoetis standards and GMP compliance.

You will lead design, installation, validation, and lifecycle management across DCS, PLCs, and data systems, interfacing with cross-functional teams andAudit readiness. The role requires a 6+ year background in pharma/biotech automation, strong PLC/SCADA/DCS skills, and knowledge of ISA-88/95, GAMP, and FDA/cGMP

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical, chemical, automation engineering or related field.
• Minimum 6 years' automation systems experience in pharma/biotech.
• Proven design, implementation and maintenance of automation systems in GMP environments.
• Proficiency with PLC, SCADA, and DCS; knowledge of ISA-88/ISA-95 and GAMP.
• Familiarity with FDA/cGMP requirements and lifecycle management.

Responsibilities

• Gatekeep standards for new system architecture design and support installation of instrumentation and control systems.
• Maintain Automation master plan for the site and manage lifecycle and change control.
• Provide technical support to maintenance teams and lead SOP development.
• Manage vendors/consultants and ensure contracts meet technical specs.
• Support regulatory audits and interface with users and management for standards alignment.
• Lead implementation of automation infrastructure from conception to completion.

Skills

PLC programming

SCADA systems

DCS

GAMP knowledge

ISA-88/ISA-95 knowledge

FDA/cGMP familiarity

Project management

IT/OT concepts

Excellent communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering

Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering

Bachelor's degree in automation engineering

Related field considered

Job description

Position

Summary

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Sr. Automation Engineer to support the management of all on-site industrial controls systems BMS, PMS, EMS and PCS infrastructure and RLAN IT/OT architecture, both new and existing. The successful candidate will play a critical role in the development, implementation, and maintenance of instrumentation and control systems, ensuring compliance with Zoetis standards, GMP, and non-GMP requirements. Position

Responsibilities

• Gatekeep standards for new system architecture design, and support the installation of instrumentation and control systems, including building automation systems, data systems, process control, DCS, and utility PLCs in harmony with Zoetis standards.
• Support maintaining Automation master plan for the entire site to manage and support Automation base.
• Support managing the life cycle and change control process for all automation control systems at the site to ensure compliance and operational efficiency.
• Provide support to maintenance teams for troubleshooting instruments and control systems.
• Develop training programs for instrumentation and control systems to enhance the skills of the team.
• Support managing vendors and consultants, ensuring that contracts contain appropriate technical specifications and are delivered according to requirements.
• Stay abreast of developments in instrumentation and control technology and standards, applying relevant advancements to enhance operations.
• Interface with users, peers, and management to ensure appropriate input and integration of local and corporate standards.
• Provide technical expertise during regulatory audits to ensure compliance with industry standards.
• Author, review, revise, or approve Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) as required.
• Support the entire implementation of essential automation infrastructure from conception to completion.
• Provide support for Factory Acceptance Test and Site Acceptance Test for all automation. Education and

Experience

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, chemical engineering, automation engineering, or a related field is required. Advanced technical degrees will be considered a plus.
• 6 years managing automation systems experience in automation engineering, particularly in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology sectors is required. Technical Skills and Competence Required:
• Demonstrated experience in the design, implementation, and maintenance of automation systems within a GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) environment.
• Proficiency in PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) programming, SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems, DCS (Distributed Control System), and other automation technologies.
• Knowledge of industry standards such as ISA-88, ISA-95, and GAMP (Good Automated Manufacturing Practice).
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements, including FDA regulations, cGMP (current Good Manufacturing Practice), and other relevant guidelines governing the pharmaceutical industry.
• Technical Experience leading and managing automation projects from concept through commissioning, ensuring adherence to project timelines and budgets.
• Understanding of equipment and system validation processes, including IQ (Installation Qualification), OQ (Operational Qualification), and PQ (Performance Qualification).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, as Senior Automation Engineers often collaborate with cross-functional teams, vendors, and management.
• Ability to troubleshoot complex automation issues, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions.
• Basic understanding of IT/OT (Information Technology/Operational Technology) digital concepts, with the ability to integrate automation systems EMS, DCS, PCS and BMS into broader digital frameworks.
• Life-cycle management of Automation Systems.
• Efficient Project Management skills.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills for concise and practical presentations.
• Implementation, testing, and qualification of automation for large-scale projects.
• Proficiency in English, both written and oral.
• Computer proficiency with email; internet/online training; working knowledge of Microsoft Office, including Word and Excel; familiarity with manufacturing software programs.
• Demonstrated commitment to achieving business results in a manner consistent with Zoetis Core Beliefs and Mission Elements. Physical Position Requirements The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those a colleague encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Candidate position is site based in Lithia Springs GA (Atlanta). Must be able to sit, walk or stand for long periods of time. Repetitive motions and substantial movement of the wrist, hands, and fingers. Must be able to reach above shoulder level, bend/stoop, kneel, push/pull, and handle/grip frequently. Must be able to work scheduled 40 hours with the ability to work overtime as needed. General work hours are from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm in an office setting. Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 lbs. Use of necessary personal protective equipment is also required. Full time Regular Colleague