Sr. Automation Engineer

Bachem Holding AG; California (MO); On-site; USD 118,004 - 162,256; Full time

Job summary

Bachem Americas is seeking a Sr. Automation Engineer to lead automation initiatives in a regulated pharmaceutical manufacturing environment.

You will define hardware/software/network architecture, drive milestones, and support cross-functional teams to design, develop, and optimize process automation. You will manage installation, qualification, troubleshooting, and optimization of systems across batch processing, HVAC, water/solvent systems, and plant utilities while ensuring compliance with

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field or 8+ years of qualified work experience in lieu of degree.
• Minimum of 5 years’ qualified work experience.
• Experience with SCADA/HMI platforms (Ignition, FactoryTalk View ME/SE, WinCC).
• Experience with industrial fieldbus, Ethernet/IP and ProfNet, and network topology for Ethernet/serial comms.
• Experience with BACnet/IP, MSTP, BMS systems, ISA/IEE standards, NEC, UL, FDA Title 21.

Responsibilities

• Install and qualify automation systems for batch processes and utilities.
• Collaborate with production to streamline automation across systems.
• Develop training, procedures, SOPs and staff capability for new automation.
• Troubleshoot and monitor automation systems to ensure specs and capacity.
• Coordinate engineering activities for automation projects and investments.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and industry standards.

Skills

SCADA/HMI platforms

I/O & PLCs

Industrial IT/OT networks

Project lifecycle management

Cross-functional collaboration

Troubleshooting & validation

Education

Bachelor's in engineering

8+ years related experience

Tools

Copadata Zenon

Ignition

PlantPAX SCADA

OSI PI

MSSQL

Job description

Bachem is a leading, innovation-driven company specializing in the development and manufacture of peptides and oligonucleotides. With over 50 years of experience and expertise, Bachem provides products for research, clinical development and commercial application to pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies worldwide and offers a comprehensive range of services. Bachem operates internationally with headquarters in Switzerland and locations in Europe, the US and Asia. The company is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange.

A brief overview

The Sr. Automation Engineer manages automation systems and projects within a regulated pharmaceutical manufacturing environment, conducting design evaluations and recommending improvements to enhance product quality and operational efficiency. The role defines required hardware, software, and network architecture, and drives project milestones to design, develop, and optimize process automation while supporting cross‑functional project teams.

What you will do

• Responsible for Installation and qualification of automation systems for batch processing tanks, solvent recovery system, filter dryers, HPLCs, filtration system, Lyophilizers, ultra‑low freezers, HVAC, solvent distribution and recovery system, compressed air, purified water, and wastewater system.
• Collaborate with production and controls team to develop and streamline production process in automating the new and existing system by harmonizing and leveraging technology developed by Center of Excellence (Bachem Headquarters).
• Develop and train cross‑functional team members on utilization and maintaining new automation systems for equipment and system – by creating roadmap, improving existing process, creating new procedures, job aids, SOPs and protocols as well as training of staff for these expectations.
• Troubleshoot and monitor automation systems and trends to ensure that equipment works to its specifications and appropriate capacities.
• Support engineering team and coordinate engineering activities to design, develop, and execute the automation part of strategic investment projects.
• Ensures compliance of company policies, procedures and objectives regarding processes, initiatives, and projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field, or 8+ years of qualified work experience in lieu of degree.
• Minimum of 5 years’ qualified work experience.
• Experience with SCADA/HMI platforms, such as Ignition, FactoryTalk View ME/SE, and WinCC.
• Experience with industrial fieldbus communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP, and ProfNet, and the ability to implement system network topology for Ethernet and serial communications.
• Experience with Copadata Zenon, Ignition, and PlantPAX SCADA platforms.
• Experience with Omron PLC/IO, iFIX.
• Experience with BACnet/IP and MSTP protocols and BMS systems.
• Experience with OSI PI, Zenon, and MSSQL.
• Working Knowledge of ISA and IEE Standards and Industry Codes as they relate to Chemical, Pharmaceutical facilities, or related facilities.
• Knowledge of NEC, UL 508A.
• Working Knowledge of ISA and IEE Standards and Industry Code as it relates to Chemical, Pharmaceutical facilities or related facilities.
• Knowledge of NEC, UL, and FDA title 21 standards and requirements.
• Technical knowledge of automation, controls, instrumentation, batch programming, Programmable Logic Controllers, Distributed Control Systems, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition systems, Building Automation Systems, IT and OT networks and technologies.
• Knowledge of batch processing and recipe management.
• Direct complete project life cycle from design, planning, and implementation to validation. Act as project manager across multiple projects.
• Experience with electrical and program troubleshooting.
• Ability to safely work with electrical circuits up to 480VAC.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to effectively organize, multitask, and work in a fast‑paced, deadline driven work environment.
• Detail oriented with the ability to troubleshoot and resolve problems.
• Ability to work independently, manage one’s time, and function well in a team environment.

Base salary range: $118,004 - $162,256

Placement of new hires in this wage range is based on several factors including education, skill sets, experience, and training.

Total Rewards

We offer all Team Members a total rewards package including competitive pay, annual performance bonus, a generous benefit package with comprehensive Medical/Dental/Vision coverage, 401(k) plan with employer contribution, and paid vacation, personal and sick days.

Bachem Americas is an Equal Opportunity Employer

As an equal opportunity employer, we celebrate the diversity of our team and are committed to building an inclusive workplace where individuals are hired and advanced based on merit, skills, and qualifications. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or other legally protected status.

At Bachem, you’ll find a diverse, multicultural team. The (a) in the job title stands for all. We welcome applications from all candidates. What matters are your skills and motivation—regardless of age, gender, background, religion, or sexual orientation.