Senior Specialist, Process Automation

BioSpace; West Point (PA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

BioSpace in West Point, PA is seeking a Senior Specialist in Process Automation to lead a small engineering team and support automated systems across our vaccine manufacturing operations. You will drive SDLC-aligned improvements, collaborate with cross-functional IPT members, and ensure GMP-compliant, reliable manufacturing processes on the shop floor.

The role emphasizes leadership, hands-on automation expertise (DeltaV, PLC/SCADA/HMI), and strong technical writing.

Qualifications

• BS degree in Engineering, CS, or related field.
• 7+ years in process automation, IT/OT, or equivalent.
• Experience with DeltaV DCS, PLC, SCADA, and HMI.
• Experience with CSV and SDLC.
• Knowledge of S88, GxP, and regulatory requirements.
• Strong technical writing and communication skills.
• Ability to work with cross-functional teams and lead others.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of two engineers providing process automation support for vaccine manufacturing.
• Prioritize workload while ensuring SDLC, GMP, safety, and environmental compliance.
• Collaborate with IPT and other functions through automation ownership and SME role.
• Support manufacturing activities on the shop floor and partner with quality teams.
• Design, implement, and improve process control strategies and corrective actions.
• Troubleshoot automation issues and participate in deviation investigations.
• Maintain automated systems in a state of Permanent Inspection Readiness.

Skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Leadership

Education

BS in Engineering/CS or related field

Tools

DeltaV DCS

PLC

SCADA

HMI

CSV

Job description

Our company is seeking a Senior Specialist in Process Automation to join our Digital Manufacturing Operations organization at the dynamic West Point site. We are committed to fostering an environment of mutual respect, encouragement, and teamwork. As part of our team, you will have the opportunity to collaborate with talented and dedicated colleagues while developing and expanding your career. Join us in our mission to deliver innovative health solutions that advance the prevention and treatment of diseases in people and animals.

This role will lead a team of engineers in providing automation system support and expertise to enable our manufacturing division in the reliable and compliant supply of quality vaccine products to customers and patients across the globe.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of two engineers in providing process automation support for our Hepatitis A vaccine manufacturing facility to enable reliable and compliant manufacturing/supply of vaccines.
• Direct and prioritize workload activities of the process automation team, ensuring compliance with System Development Life Cycle (SDLC), GMP, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with other functions within the Integrated Process Team through ownership of automated systems and Subject Matter Expertise.
• Support manufacturing activities on the shop floor.
• Design and implement process control improvements and corrective actions.
• Troubleshoot and resolve automation issues and events.
• Participate in deviation investigations.
• Administer automated control systems, sustaining a state of Permanent Inspection Readiness.
• Apply leadership skills to foster a high-performing, collaborative team environment.
• Serve as the primary Subject Matter Expert and represent the automation function on the IPT leadership team.
• Communicate daily with business, technical, and quality representatives through the tier process.
• Support process automation inquiries during internal and external audits/inspections, speaking knowledgeably about automation in association with cGMP processes and manufacturing operations.
• Continuously evaluate automated systems and develop strategies to optimize and ensure quality and stability of systems through future expansion, replacement, or upgrade.
• Directly support site and global initiatives with respect to digital transformation and improving how West Point Digital Manufacturing Operations does business.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
• Seven or more (7+) years in process automation, IT/OT, or equivalent.
• Technical and operational expertise in DeltaV DCS, PLC, SCADA, HMI, Computer System Validation (CSV), and System Development Lifecycle (SDLC).
• Strong technical writing capabilities.
• Knowledgeable of S88 Batch Standard.
• Knowledgeable of regulatory GxP requirements.
• Knowledge of equipment and process validation.
• Problem-solving skills (technical and non-technical).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to interface effectively with colleagues from all levels of the organization, and with external customers and vendors.

Preferred

• Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology manufacturing process experience is strongly preferred.