Sr. Automation Engineer

Bachem; Vista (CA); On-site; USD 118,004 - 162,256; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Annual performance bonus

Benefits package (Medical/Dental/Vison

401(k) plan with employer contribution

Paid vacation, personal and sick days

Job summary

Bachem Americas is seeking a Sr. Automation Engineer to lead automation design, implementation and qualification in a regulated pharmaceutical manufacturing environment.

You will define hardware, software, and network architecture and drive milestones for scalable process automation across multiple projects. The role requires extensive hands-on experience with SCADA/HMI platforms, PLCs, and industrial networks, along with strong communication skills and a track record of delivering compliant,

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or 8+ years of experience.
• Minimum 5 years’ qualified work experience.
• Experience with SCADA/HMI platforms (Ignition, FactoryTalk, WinCC).
• Knowledge of NEC, UL 508A and FDA Title 21 standards.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for installation and qualification of automation systems for batch processing tanks and related equipment.
• Collaborate with production to streamline processes through automation and Center of Excellence technology.
• Develop and train cross-functional teams on new automation systems and procedures.
• Troubleshoot and monitor automation systems to ensure performance and capacity.
• Support engineering in designing and executing automation components of strategic projects.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and project objectives.

Skills

SCADA/HMI

Ethernet/IP

ProfNet

Zenon

Ignition

Omron PLC

iFIX

OSI PI

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

WinCC

PlantPAX

iFIX

Job description

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 coordinates 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.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Bachem takes responsibility for future generations by a careful handling of resources and avoiding environmental risks. We continually improve our ecological performance and develop and implement new approaches for enhancing employees’ environmental awareness. EcoVadis has awarded Bachem Gold Medal status in their assessment of Bachem.

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.