Senior Automation Engineer

A global biologics manufacturer is seeking a Senior Automation Engineer to join its high-performing team at a flagship U.S. site in Gaithersburg. This advanced facility plays a vital role in delivering life-changing therapies to patients with cancer, respiratory, and autoimmune diseases worldwide. With over 800 employees on site, this location has been consistently recognised as a top employer in the region, fostering a collaborative, inclusive culture that encourages continuous learning and cross-functional teamwork.

This is an opportunity to be part of a highly respected automation team responsible for supporting manufacturing and logistics operations across a world-class biologics production facility. From working on critical process and utility systems to contributing to major capital projects, this role plays a key part in ensuring the smooth, compliant, and efficient running of advanced manufacturing infrastructure.

If you're looking to apply your automation expertise in a setting that values quality, innovation, and impact, this could be the ideal next step in your career.

Your role as Senior Automation Engineer

• Provide expert-level support across automation, control systems, data infrastructure, and networking for the manufacturing and logistics areas

• Lead troubleshooting and drive improvements across PLCs, DCS, and associated systems, including Rockwell and Emerson DeltaV platforms

• Manage medium-to-large scale capital projects, from planning to execution, with responsibility for automation scope and deliverables

• Serve as a subject matter expert in one or more key areas such as control networks, VFDs, OSI PI historians, or panel design

• Analyse and interpret process data to support continuous improvement and data-driven decision making

• Review, revise, and approve control system documentation, including electrical drawings and validation deliverables

• Mentor and train site engineers on control systems, processes, and standards

• Apply data analytics and risk mitigation strategies to improve system performance and compliance

• Ensure all software development follows established lifecycle principles and validation requirements

Experience and qualifications for the Senior Automation Engineer role

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Life Sciences (or equivalent experience)

• 10+ years of relevant automation experience, preferably in a GMP-regulated manufacturing environment

• Strong hands-on experience with Rockwell Automation (FactoryTalk suite) and/or Emerson DeltaV systems

• Applied understanding of batch manufacturing principles (ISA S88)

• Solid knowledge of control loop programming, instrumentation, and control system architecture

• Experience with OSI PI historian systems, including OPC DA/UA protocols

• Comfortable working across IT/OT infrastructure and contributing to risk assessments

• Proven track record of leading automation workstreams in capital projects

• Experience mentoring junior team members or training others in control systems

Perks and benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-related bonuses

• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits

• Opportunities for internal mobility and long-term career growth

• Access to ongoing professional training and upskilling programs

• Inclusive, supportive team culture with regular recognition and team-building events

• A meaningful role supporting the manufacture of life-changing medicines

For immediate consideration, please apply now. If this role isn't quite right, feel free to reach out to learn about similar opportunities in the automation and life sciences space.