Automation Engineer

Lonza is seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to design, implement, and support advanced automation for biopharmaceutical manufacturing. In this role you will develop and optimize PLC/SCADA and DCS-based systems in a GMP environment, ensuring reliability, data integrity, and regulatory compliance. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams on technology transfer, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement, while supporting commissioning, qualification, and lifecycle management. This position offers exposure to cutting-edge bioprocess technologies, global projects, and strong opportunities for professional growth in a mission-driven, patient-focused organization.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize automation solutions for biopharmaceutical manufacturing processes
• Develop, configure, and maintain PLC/SCADA and DCS systems in a GMP-regulated environment
• Collaborate with process engineering, QA, and operations to ensure reliable and compliant automation performance
• Lead troubleshooting, root-cause analysis, and continuous improvement of automated systems
• Author and maintain technical documentation, URS, FDS, test plans, and validation protocols
• Support system commissioning, qualification, and lifecycle management for new and existing equipment
• Ensure data integrity, cybersecurity, and integration with MES and data historians
• Provide on-call and shop-floor support to maintain high equipment uptime
• Contribute to technology transfer and scale-up activities across global Lonza sites
• Mentor junior engineers and share best practices in automation and control technologies

Required Skills

• PLC programming (Rockwell, Siemens, or similar)
• SCADA/HMI configuration and support
• DCS systems in GMP manufacturing
• GAMP 5 and computer system validation (CSV)21 CFR Part 11 and data integrity compliance
• GMP biopharma process automation (upstream/downstream/fill-finish)
• Industrial networking and control system cybersecurity
• Batch control (ISA-88) and recipe management
• MES integration and data historians
• Root cause analysis and continuous improvement (Lean/Six Sigma)