AbbVie

Principal Instrumentation & Controls Engineer

AbbVie$110K — $140K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or related field; post-graduate education preferred
  • 8+ years of engineering and operational experience
  • Proven track record in significant technical contributions and project improvements
  • Strong knowledge of automation, control systems, and related engineering practices
  • Exceptional interpersonal and collaborative skills with diverse groups
  • Ability to analyze complex problems and exercise sound judgment
  • Experience in healthcare, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, or biologics is preferred.

Responsibilities

  • Lead design and implementation of automation for GMP facilities
  • Provide daily technical leadership for upstream and downstream manufacturing
  • Manage change control, nonconformance, and qualification activities
  • Design and develop complete I&C packages including layouts and specifications
  • Configure, review, and test DCS/PLC systems such as DeltaV
  • Direct vendor scope for control panel fabrication and integration
  • Ensure GxP compliance during project execution and operational turnover

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
  • Paid time off including vacation and sick leave
  • 401(k) plan participation
  • Eligibility for short-term incentive programs
Full Job Description
Job Description

The Principal I&C Engineer leads design, implementation, and qualification of automation and controls IO layer for GMP facilities and labs, bridging process, IT/OT, and quality to deliver compliant, reliable operations. They develop I&C design packages, configure DCS/PLC systems IO (often FoxBoro, DeltaV), and support FAT/SFAT/SAT through turnover in line with CSV expectations. This role provides technical leadership, ensures compliance with applicable codes and standards, supports project execution and running facility. The Engineer will design, develop, and deliver innovative solutions enabling the advancement of AbbVie's Clinical and Commercial Drug Substance manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities
  • Support a Safe working environment by aligning with all pertinent environmental health, safety & maintenance program practices, rules, and regulations.
  • Provide technical leadership for Day-to-day operational shift support for Upstream and Downstream Drug Substance manufacturing.
  • Experience in change control, nonconformance, corrective & preventative actions, and Commissioning & Qualification activities.
  • Experience in various instrumentation with the following product platforms: Rockwell PLC Platform, Emerson DeltaV
  • Day-to-day Operational Support: 24 x 7 Onsite/On Call: Rotational Support
  • Troubleshooting support to Mfg.
  • Lead FEED and detailed design for I&C scope; define I/O allocations, network topologies, and panel architectures aligned to process and facility constraints.
  • Produce complete I&C design packages (enclosure details, panel layout/BOM, terminal block details, power distribution/grounding, I/O wiring, network integration details).
  • Specify/oversee fabrication of control panels and field integration and manage vendor E&I scope.
  • Configure, review and test DCS/PLC I/O layer and relevant applications; often DeltaV with ISA 88 batch (CM/EM classes, recipes, graphics), including SFAT/FAT.
  • Troubleshoot instrumentation and control system issues, optimizing control strategies for safety, reliability and efficiency.
  • Plan and execute SAT and support OQ/commissioning: loop checks, calibration coordination, punch-list closure, turnover documentation.
  • Execute in a GxP manner with full traceability and change control (e.g., VCAT/audit trail), in alignment with CSV practices and 21 CFR Part 11 expectations.
  • Being responsible for driving continuous improvement in partnership with Plant Engineering, Maintenance, Manufacturing, Process engineering and OPex to drive operational efficiencies.
  • Responsible for collaborating within the AbbVie network to learn, implement and share Continuous improvement opportunities within the Drug Product manufacturing AbbVie Global network.
  • Demonstrated understanding of project life cycles is preferred- Candidate should be familiar with engineering processes from initial conceptualization through project turnover to operations. Responsible for developing & maintaining Engineering Specifications, documents, drawings, and - Standard Operational Procedures (SOP) including Administrative SOPs and Job Aids.
  • As a System SME, be accountable and responsible to provide the necessary support during the internal and external regulatory audits.


Qualifications
  • A Bachelors Degree in Engineering, science, or closely related discipline is desired, or equivalent technical experience plus demonstrated competence, with a desired 8+ years of significant engineering and/or operational experience. A post-graduate education/degree is desired, and may contribute towards the desired years of experience.Has demonstrated competency within a discipline.
  • Has a career history marked by a consistent series of technical contributions and accomplishments. Significant contribution to product or process development or improvement through creative application of technical effort will equally be recognized.
  • Possesses a strong technical knowledge and application of concepts, practices, and procedures. Works on problems of complex scope where analysis of situations or data involves multiple competing factors. Exercises judgment and advises management as to the appropriate actions.
  • Interacts well with diverse groups within engineering and maintains strong working relationships with internal and external collaborators.
  • Listens to and understands others' points of view and articulates tactfully and respectfully one's own perspective orally, in writing, and in presentations.
  • Works well with other engineers in a collaborative, fast-paced goal-driven environment.
  • Possesses interpersonal skills to negotiate and reconcile differences.
  • Has a technical background in health care, medical devices, pharmaceutical, biologics, or similar industries (preferred).
  • Has demonstrated competency with financial systems and in fiscal control.


Additional Information

Applicable only to applicants applying to a position in any location with pay disclosure requirements under state or local law:
  • The compensation range described below is the range of possible base pay compensation that the Company believes in good faith it will pay for this role at the time of this postingbased on the job grade for this position. Individual compensation paid within this range will depend on many factors including geographic location, and we may ultimately paymore or less than the posted range. This range may be modified in the future.
  • We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick), medical/dental/vision insurance and 401(k) to eligible employees.
  • This job is eligible to participate in our short-term incentive programs.

Note: No amount of pay is considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned, vested, and determinable. The amount and availability of any bonus, commission,incentive, benefits, or any other form of compensation and benefits that are allocable to a particular employee remains in the Company's sole and absolute discretion unless and untilpaid and may be modified at the Company's sole and absolute discretion, consistent with applicable law.

About AbbVie

AbbVie develops pharmaceuticals and medical devices. They provide products and services to therapeutic areas including immunology, oncology, neuroscience, eye care, virology, women's health, and gastroenterology.

AbbVie Careers

Joining AbbVie means becoming part of a global team dedicated to making a remarkable impact on patients' lives. At AbbVie, our employees are united in the pursuit of groundbreaking innovation and are committed to transforming the future of healthcare with leading-edge science.

Work You’ll Do

At AbbVie, you’ll collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the industry to solve challenging problems that have a high impact on society. Our culture fosters growth and embraces leadership and diversity training, ensuring that every team member can thrive.

Explore Job Opportunities

AbbVie offers a wide range of job opportunities and career paths, providing a platform where professionals can propel their careers forward. From research and development to marketing and sales, the potential to make a significant impact is limitless.

Internship Programs

Kickstart your career with an AbbVie internship. Our programs provide invaluable industry experience and a chance to develop essential skills in a real-world setting. Interns at AbbVie are considered integral members of the team and are given tasks that are both challenging and rewarding.

Professional Growth and Development

We believe in nurturing our team's professional growth through comprehensive training programs, leadership development opportunities, and continuous learning. Our commitment to your career growth is reflected in our robust offerings that enhance your skills and knowledge.

Benefits and Culture

AbbVie is dedicated to supporting our employees' well-being both inside and outside of work. Our benefits package includes health, financial, and social benefits that are designed to support the diverse needs of our employees. Our inclusive culture encourages collaboration and innovation, fostering a workplace where all can excel.

Hiring Process

Our hiring process is designed to ensure a match that will be beneficial both for the company and for your career aspirations. From resume submission to interview, each step is an opportunity to showcase your skills and fit with the AbbVie team.

Networking and Career Advancement

At AbbVie, networking doesn’t just enhance your career; it propels it. We encourage our employees to engage internally and externally to build relationships that foster personal and professional growth.

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Whether you’re seeking to advance your career in a dynamic and empowering environment, or looking for a place where you can innovate, lead, and contribute to something bigger, AbbVie is the place for you. Join us in our mission to discover and deliver innovative medicines that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow.
Learn more about AbbVie
Size
50,000 employees
Market Cap
$288.5 billion
Industry
Net Income
$4.6 billion
Founded
2013
5 Year Trend
+17%
Revenue
$45.8 billion
NASDAQ

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