Thermo Fisher Scientific

Sr Automation Engineer

Thermo Fisher Scientific$95K — $115K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • BS in Engineering, Computer Science or related field with 8 years experience in regulated industries
  • 5 years hands-on experience with Emerson DeltaV or Rockwell PlantPAx Commercial DCS
  • Proven experience with S88 methodology in automated environments
  • Experience in developing and supporting data historian programs with platforms like OSI PI or Rockwell FTHistorian
  • Knowledge of IT/OT networking and basic electrical circuits

Responsibilities

  • Design and configure automation software and hardware for production processes
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize automated systems
  • Drive continuous improvement for manufacturing efficiency and regulatory compliance
  • Provide on-call technical support and troubleshoot automation systems
  • Manage system design, implementation, and vendor partnerships
  • Develop and maintain documentation for automation processes and compliance protocols
  • Lead project teams and mentor junior engineers

Benefits

  • Competitive remuneration and annual incentive plan bonus
  • Comprehensive healthcare coverage
  • Opportunities for career development within an innovative organization
  • A company culture built on integrity, intensity, involvement, and innovation
Full Job Description

Work Schedule

Standard (Mon-Fri)

Environmental Conditions

Able to lift 40 lbs. without assistance, Office, Some degree of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required (safety glasses, gowning, gloves, lab coat, ear plugs etc.)

Job Description

Title: Senior Automation Engineer

Division/Site Specific Information

Position will sit onsite at the Florence, SC site and will support the Drug Substance Division (DSD) at Thermo Fisher Scientific. This role, reporting to the Automation Manager, ensures the flawless support, maintenance, and implementation of automated systems at our Florence, South Carolina location.

Work schedule will be standard 8-5, M – F fully onsite

Discover Impactful Work:

As a Senior Automation Engineer at Thermo Fisher Scientific, you will optimize production processes, implement new automation technologies, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. You'll work with cross-functional teams to ensure the efficient manufacture of high-quality products while maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements. This position offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully by enabling our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer through innovative manufacturing solutions.

A Day in the Life:
  • You will provide design, configuration, installation, and maintenance of automation software and associated hardware; including interacting with other teams as necessary.

  • Working with IT, Quality, Production, and other departments, you'll optimize existing automated processes while ensuring consistent product quality and regulatory compliance.

  • Your analytical skills and engineering expertise will help drive cost reductions, improve efficiency, and enhance manufacturing capabilities across our operations.

  • Design, configure, and troubleshoot industrial I/O systems, including sensors, actuators, and field instrumentation, ensuring accurate signal mapping and reliable integration with control systems.

Key Responsibilities

Troubleshooting & Support: Provide rotating on-call (24/7) technical support, troubleshooting, and optimization for manufacturing systems, including but not limited to: Allen-Bradley (Rockwell) family products, Emerson DeltaV, WonderWare, Honeywell, current DCS, and data historians.

  • System Design & Implementation: Contribute to automation and control system design; oversee contractors during implementation, commissioning, and validation of systems for both production and utility systems.

  • Documentation: Develop, review, and maintain documentation including, but not limited to functional design specifications (FDS), software design documentation, and validation protocols.

  • Compliance & Validation: Ensure all systems comply with cGMP, GAMP 5, and FDA regulatory requirements.

  • Project Execution: Partner with cross-functional teams (Process Engineering, Operations, Validation, Quality, IT) to execute automation projects, manage vendors, and support system upgrades and lifecycle management.

Supervision:

  • Leads multidisciplinary project teams and manages third-party contractors and engineering service providers as required.  Supervisory responsibilities and mentorship of less-experienced engineers may be required.

Keys to Success:
Education:
  • BS in Engineering, Computer Science or related Engineering/ Science field with 8 years of experience within regulated industries (pharmaceutical, medical device, or similar).

Preferred:

  • Experience would include at least 5 years of hands-on experience with the Emerson DeltaV or Rockwell PlantPAx commercial Distributed Control System.

Experience
  • Proven experience applying S88 in an automated environment and development of control system standards aligning with S88 methodology is required.
  • Experience developing and supporting either Rockwell PlantPAx or Emerson DeltaV as a commercial Distributed Control System including is required.
  • Hands-on experience with some of a broad range of Allen-Bradley PLCs and PanelView display products is preferred.
  • Experience with data historian program development, configuration, and maintenance with at least one of the following historians is required: OSI (AVEVA) PI, Rockwell FTHistorian, DeltaV continuous historian is required.
  • Experience with virtual machine environment and hypervisor software is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Experience developing and supporting either Rockwell PlantPAx or Emerson DeltaV as a commercial Distributed Control System.
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and technical drawings with working knowledge of basic electrical circuits as related to I/O specification, selection and configuration
  • Exhibited knowledge of S88 batch control and configuration
  • Exhibited knowledge of batch reporting is required
  • Working knowledge of database structure including SQL Server, with experience in data queries, support, and basic database management
  • Working knowledge of IT/OT networking including managed switch, VLAN and firewall configuration and management
  • Strong knowledge of GMP and life sciences regulatory requirements.
  • Proficiency in PLC programming, HMI/SCADA systems, DCS platforms, and industrial networking.

Benefits

We offer competitive remuneration, annual incentive plan bonus, healthcare, and a range of employee benefits. Thermo Fisher Scientific offers employment with an innovative, forward-thinking organization, and outstanding career and development prospects. We offer an exciting company culture that stands for integrity, intensity, involvement, and innovation!

About Thermo Fisher Scientific

Thermo Fisher Scientific Careers

Join the vibrant team at Thermo Fisher Scientific, a global leader in serving science and making the world healthier, cleaner, and safer. With a workforce of over 75,000 professionals, Thermo Fisher Scientific offers unparalleled job opportunities and a culture of innovation that propels your career to new heights. Work You’ll Do At Thermo Fisher Scientific, you will be part of a team that is dedicated to enabling our customers to make the world healthier. Whether you are involved in the development of life-saving drugs or innovative environmental solutions, your work will have a profound impact on society. Our commitment to leadership in the industry is unwavering. With Thermo Fisher Scientific, you will lead projects that set standards in scientific inquiry and market leadership. You will work at the intersection of science, technology, and industry expertise, driving digital innovation in every aspect of our business. Join our diverse team of professionals and engage in roles that span across various functions and disciplines. From research and development to marketing and sales, the breadth of job opportunities available means that you can find the perfect match for your skills and passions. Innovative Work As part of our team, you will have access to cutting-edge tools and technologies that foster creativity and innovation. Thermo Fisher Scientific is home to a dynamic range of career paths, all designed to challenge you and help you grow as a professional. Our employment philosophy emphasizes diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that all team members have the opportunity to thrive. We believe in nurturing talent through robust training programs, leadership development, and opportunities for career advancement. Be Part of a Great Team Working at Thermo Fisher Scientific means being part of a global network of enthusiastic, talented, and ambitious individuals. Our culture is built on collaboration, where each member’s unique skills and perspectives are valued. You will enjoy benefits that support both your professional growth and personal well-being. Future-Proof Your Career Embark on a journey of growth and continuous learning with Thermo Fisher Scientific. We offer a variety of training and development programs that cater to your interests and career goals. From internships for budding scientists to leadership training for aspiring executives, our programs are designed to equip you with the skills needed for a successful and fulfilling career. Explore Discover how our commitment to innovation leads to advancements in health and science: [Read More] Learn about our leadership in environmental sustainability and how you can contribute: [Read More] The Thermo Fisher Scientific Difference Our global presence and commitment to innovation mean that your work extends beyond borders and makes a tangible impact worldwide. The collaboration between our teams drives our leadership in the scientific community and contributes to a culture that embraces diversity and fosters professional growth. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interest. We are always on the lookout for passionate, curious, and driven team players. Explore our job opportunities and find out how you can contribute to our meaningful work. SEARCH THERMO FISHER SCIENTIFIC JOBS Keep Up to Date Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at Thermo Fisher Scientific.
Learn more about Thermo Fisher Scientific
Size
130,000 employees
Market Cap
$213.3 billion
Industry
Net Income
$6.3 billion
Founded
1956
5 Year Trend
+16.5%
Revenue
$32.2 billion
NASDAQ

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