Automation Engineer at ACL Digital

Job Title : Process & Controls Engineer (Automation Engineer)

Contract role

Location : New Albany, OH

Description:

Position Overview:

We are looking for a Process & Controls Engineer (Automation Engineer) who will take ownership of the technical aspects of a manufacturing line under general supervision. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in process optimization, troubleshooting operational issues, and supporting packaging operations, manufacturing, pilot technologies, and capital projects. The role involves applying fundamental engineering principles to the design and execution of system modifications, experiments, and smaller-scale capital projects. As a key technical resource, the Process & Controls Engineer will collaborate closely with mechanics, automation technicians, and IS teams to solve complex engineering problems and drive process improvements.

Key Responsibilities:

Technical Ownership: Lead and manage the technical aspects of automation systems for packaging and ancillary equipment, ensuring optimal functionality and performance.

Process Optimization & Problem Solving: Analyze and develop strategies to optimize manufacturing processes, focusing on minimizing downtime and improving operational efficiency in a highly regulated environment.

Leadership & Collaboration: Lead cross-functional teams and projects, driving continuous improvement and automation initiatives across departments including Research, Manufacturing, Process Development, Quality Assurance, and Validation.

Engineering Design & Implementation: Contribute to the design, specification, and implementation of system modifications, experiments, and capital projects. Ensure effective deployment of new or improved engineering techniques and procedures.

Cross-Functional Coordination: Work with various departments to define and develop requirements for complex system modifications and facility improvements.

Documentation & Compliance: Ensure that all engineering processes, changes, and updates adhere to applicable industry standards (e.g., GMP, GAMP), maintaining compliance with relevant documentation and validation protocols.

Validation & Lifecycle Management: Oversee the lifecycle of automation systems, including design, installation, validation, and ongoing performance monitoring.

Qualifications:

Basic Qualifications:

Master's degree in Engineering (preferred)

OR Bachelor's degree in Engineering with at least 2 years of Automation experience in Pharmaceutical, Medical Devices, or Biotechnology industries

OR Associate’s degree in Engineering with 6 years of relevant experience in the Pharmaceutical, Medical Devices, or Biotechnology industries

Preferred Qualifications:

Advanced degree in Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Chemical Engineering

Knowledge and experience with pharmaceutical/biotech processes, particularly in final drug product operations

Familiarity with Data Integrity and Data Security in regulated environments

In-depth experience with programming, design, installation, validation, and lifecycle management of manufacturing process controls and automation systems

Experience with Machine Vision, Serialization, Robotics, Siemens, and Rockwell software platforms

Strong understanding of GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and GAMP (Good Automated Manufacturing Practice), including associated documentation requirements in regulated industries

Experience with validation protocols and knowledge of the processes and requirements for new equipment installations

Strong project management skills with proven ability to handle complex tasks and drive improvements

Excellent verbal and written communication, presentation, and technical writing skills

Proven ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams and lead projects from conception to completion

Familiarity with Operational Excellence and Lean Transformation principles, particularly in automation and engineering contexts

Expertise in PLC and HMI programming with specific experience in Rockwell, B&R, and Siemens systems