Abbott

Senior Automation Engineer

Abbott • $78K — $156K *
Scarborough, ME 04074In-Person
Manufacturing & Automotive
5 - 7 years of experience
Today
Be an Early Applicant
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or equivalent experience.
  • 7+ years of engineering experience in a manufacturing environment.
  • Experience with lean six sigma principles and DMAIC problem-solving.
  • Familiarity with change management principles.
  • Preferred: ISO, FDA, or similar quality systems experience.

Responsibilities

  • Specify, acquire, and implement automation equipment.
  • Lead automation upgrades for safety and improvement.
  • Troubleshoot equipment logic and controls.
  • Manage root cause analysis for manufacturing failures.
  • Conduct risk analysis and failure modes effects analysis.
  • Drive continuous improvement in quality and efficiency.
  • Create and revise technical documentation for compliance.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
  • Support for family health and wellness.
  • Opportunities for career development within the company.
  • Contribution towards building a safe work environment.
Full Job Description
Senior Automation Engineer

The Opportunity

Abbott Rapid Diagnostics is part of Abbott's Diagnostics family of businesses, bringing together exceptional teams of experts and industry leading technologies to support diagnostic testing which provides important information for treatment and management of diseases and other conditions.

The position of Senior Manufacturing Automation Engineer is within our Infectious Disease Business Unit located in Scarborough, Maine. This role will be responsible for supporting manufacturing processes, quality/cost savings initiatives and implementation of engineering principles while assuring compliance with cGMP quality and safety standards.

What You'll Work On
  • Responsible for equipment specification, acquisition, and implementation.
  • Leads automation equipment upgrade efforts related to safety, obsolescence, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Evaluates machine logic, electromechanical and process controls to troubleshoot equipment and drives to resolution.
  • Leads teams to identify root cause of manufacturing failures using structured problem solving. Applies root cause fixes to prevent recurrence.
  • Conducts failure modes and effects analysis and evaluates manufacturing equipment risk.
  • Completes complex projects based on comprehensive knowledge of manufacturing equipment and processes.
  • Leads design of experiments, validation, completion of testing and analysis of data. Presents data to cross functional teams.
  • Drives implementation of new methods or materials for continual improvement of quality and efficiency.
  • Analyzes current equipment for process suitability and provides detailed plans for improvement.
  • Creates and revises manufacturing documents, specifications, standard operating procedures (SOPs), safety instructions, validation protocols, risk assessments, and procedures and other technical documents to ensure compliant, efficient, and safe procedures.
  • Leads other engineers and technicians in developing solutions and improvements in materials, equipment, and process as necessary in addition to ensuring continual improvement, safety, and compliance.
  • Manages cross-functional project teams and coordinate activities.
  • Provides training and process expertise for product processing in specific areas such as process development, tooling development, documentation, cleaning protocol, process characterization and validation.
  • Initiates and leads to resolution of Quality Incidents and CAPA.
  • Participates in teams as necessary and mentor's junior engineers and maintenance technicians to ensure continual improvement, safety, and compliance.
  • Considers safety, ergonomic, maintenance, and operator impact on manufacturing design.
  • Interacts with the local Project Management Office on milestones and project status updates.
  • Participates in site strategy meetings and planning.
  • Leads change through Agile PDM.
  • Complies with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, other regulatory requirements, Company policies, operating procedures, processes, and task assignments. Maintains positive and cooperative communications and collaboration with all levels of employees, customers, contractors, and vendors.
  • Carries out duties in compliance with established business policies and procedures.
  • Demonstrates commitment to the development, implementation and effectiveness of applicable Quality Processes as per ISO, FDA, and other regulatory agencies.
  • Responsible for exhibiting professional behavior with both internal/external business associates that reflects positively on the company and is consistent with the company's policies and practices.
  • Responsibility to understand and maintain awareness of the quality consequences which may occur from the improper performance of their specific job.
  • Support department by performing related tasks as requested.


Core Competencies
  • Independently identifies and drives innovative automation solutions to complex technical and operational challenges within diagnostics manufacturing and development environments. Applies systems thinking to improve processes, reliability, scalability, and compliance, while partnering with stakeholders to evaluate risks and implement sustainable improvements.
  • Effectively manages multiple high-impact initiatives concurrently by prioritizing work across automation development, validation support, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement activities. Demonstrates strong organizational skills while meeting aggressive timelines in regulated environments.
  • Demonstrates a high degree of self-motivation and accountability, taking ownership of automation systems and technical deliverables from concept through deployment and sustainment. Drives personal and team objectives with minimal supervision while serving as a technical resource and mentor to others.
  • Clearly communicates complex technical concepts, risks, and recommendations to diverse audiences including engineers, quality, manufacturing, IT, and leadership. Produces clear technical documentation, protocols, and reports aligned with diagnostic, quality, and regulatory requirements.
  • Works collaboratively across engineering, manufacturing, quality, regulatory, and external vendors to deliver compliant automation solutions. Builds trust through technical credibility, respects diverse perspectives, and aligns automation strategies with business and diagnostic product goals.


Technical Competencies
  • Demonstrates advanced proficiency in industrial automation and control systems, including PLCs, HMIs, robotics, vision systems, sensors, and integrated manufacturing equipment used in diagnostics production or laboratory environments.
  • Applies strong knowledge of fabrication and mechanical principles-including CNC machining, milling, welding, mechanical assemblies, and bolted connections-to support the design, modification, and integration of automated systems and test equipment.
  • Applies technical knowledge within regulated diagnostics or life sciences environments, ensuring automation solutions align with applicable quality system requirements, validation expectations, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
  • Utilizes mathematical and statistical concepts such as ANSI/AQL, probability, process capability, and basic statistical analysis to support equipment performance evaluation, test method development, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Interprets complex technical instructions, specifications, and schematics in mathematical, electrical, and mechanical formats. Diagnoses and resolves automation and equipment issues involving multiple abstract and concrete variables.
  • Experienced in computer-aided design (CAD) and manufacturing software to design, review, and modify automated system layouts, mechanical components, and equipment integrations.
  • Demonstrates proficiency in materials testing, metrology, and measurement systems used to evaluate material properties, system performance, and diagnostic product integrity in automated or semi-automated processes.


Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree (BS) in engineering or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 7+ years engineering experience in a manufacturing environment
  • Experience in the application of lean six sigma principles and the DMAIC approach or a similar structured problem-solving system.
  • Proficiency in change management principles and processes.


PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Prior experience working in a company operating under ISO, FDA, or similar quality systems or regulations.
  • Experience working in a GMP, FDA, ISO and USDA regulated environment.
  • Experience in cGMP and ISO 13485 regulations and practices.
  • Experience in statistical analysis software.
  • Experience in Microsoft Suites software. (Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Power BI, etc.)

Apply Now

Learn more about our health and wellness benefits, which provide the security to help you and your family live full lives: www.abbottbenefits.com

Follow your career aspirations to Abbott for diverse opportunities with a company that can help you build your future and live your best life.

The base pay for this position is
$78,000.00 - $156,000.00
In specific locations, the pay range may vary from the range posted.

JOB FAMILY:
Engineering

DIVISION:
ID Infectious Disease

LOCATION:
United States > Scarborough : 10 Southgate Rd

ADDITIONAL LOCATIONS:

WORK SHIFT:
Standard

TRAVEL:
Yes, 20 % of the Time

MEDICAL SURVEILLANCE:
Not Applicable

SIGNIFICANT WORK ACTIVITIES:
Continuous sitting for prolonged periods (more than 2 consecutive hours in an 8 hour day), Continuous standing for prolonged periods (more than 2 consecutive hours in an 8 hour day), Keyboard use (greater or equal to 50% of the workday), Wear ear plugs, Work in a clean room environment, Work in noisy environment

About Abbott

Abbott Careers

Joining Abbott means becoming part of a globally diverse team dedicated to making a lasting impact on human health. As a leader in healthcare innovation, Abbott provides a dynamic workplace where careers flourish through growth, leadership, and diversity training.

Opportunities at Abbott

Explore a world of opportunities with our team. Whether you're seeking job opportunities in engineering, marketing, research, or healthcare, Abbott offers a variety of positions that allow professionals to grow their careers. Our commitment to diversity and innovation is evident in every aspect of our work, fostering an inclusive culture that values each team member's contribution.

Work You'll Do

At Abbott, every role contributes to our mission of helping people live fuller lives through better health. From groundbreaking research in medical devices to advancements in pharmaceuticals, our team is at the forefront of healthcare innovation. By joining Abbott, you are not just accepting a job; you are embarking on a path of professional and personal growth.

Internship Programs

Kickstart your career with an Abbott internship. Our programs provide invaluable industry experience and a chance to develop essential skills in a real-world setting. Interns at Abbott work on projects that matter, gaining the experience and knowledge necessary to succeed in their future careers.

Professional Development

Abbott is dedicated to the continuous professional development of its employees. With access to cutting-edge technology, leadership programs, and diversity training, our team members are equipped to lead and innovate within the healthcare industry. We support your career journey with robust training programs, mentorship, and opportunities for networking and professional growth.

Benefits and Culture

Our employees enjoy comprehensive benefits designed to support their life and well-being. From health insurance to retirement plans, we ensure our team has everything they need to thrive. Abbott's culture is built on a foundation of respect and integrity, united by a shared commitment to improving health outcomes.

Join Our Team

Discover the impact you can make with a career at Abbott. We are hiring individuals who are passionate, curious, and driven to lead. Search open positions that match your skills and interests on our Jobs page. Prepare your resume, sharpen your interview skills, and get ready to join a team that's at the cutting edge of healthcare solutions.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with career tips, industry insights, and company news—all from the people who work here. Subscribe to our Careers Blog and personalize your subscription to receive job alerts and insider tips tailored to your preferences.

Explore Abbott

With a commitment to improving life through innovation, leadership, and diversity, Abbott is a place where you can fulfill your potential. See what exciting and rewarding opportunities await at Abbott by exploring our career opportunities today.

SEARCH ABBOTT JOBS

Join us in our mission to make the world a healthier place through innovation, leadership, and diversity. Your journey to a fulfilling career at Abbott starts here.
Learn more about Abbott
Size
113,000 employees
Market Cap
$189 billion
Industry
Healthcare
Net Income
$4.4 billion
Founded
1944
5 Year Trend
+15.6%
Revenue
$34.6 billion
NASDAQ
ABT
* Ladders Estimates

Similar Jobs

Ad banner background

Get Ready For Your
Next Interview

More Jobs at Abbott

More Manufacturing & Automotive Jobs

Find similar Senior Automation Engineer jobs:

NationwideScarborough, ME