About the role
At CAI, we are passionate about delivering excellence for our clients while creating an environment where our employees can grow, develop, and make a meaningful impact. We are seeking an Automation Equipment Support Engineer to join a high performing team supporting a state-of-the-art biologics manufacturing facility.
This position is ideal for an automation professional who enjoys working close to operations, solving complex technical issues, and ensuring critical manufacturing equipment performs safely, reliably, and compliantly.
What You'll Do
- Provide day-to-day automation support for GMP manufacturing equipment and process systems.
- Troubleshoot and resolve PLC, HMI, SCADA, and controls-related issues to minimize production downtime.
- Support operations, maintenance, engineering, and quality teams during investigations, deviations, and technical escalations.
- Execute and support automation changes through established change control processes.
- Participate in root cause investigations and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).
- Support equipment upgrades, system enhancements, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Assist with commissioning, qualification, and validation activities for new and existing equipment.
- Maintain automation documentation, system lifecycle records, and technical specifications in compliance with GMP requirements.
- Contribute to improving equipment reliability, performance, and operational efficiency.
What We're Looking For
- Bachelor's degree in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Systems Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Approximately 3-6 years of experience in a pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, or other regulated manufacturing environment.
- Experience supporting automated process equipment in a production environment.
- Working knowledge of PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems.
- Experience with one or more platforms such as:
- DeltaV
- Siemens PCS7 / TIA Portal
- Rockwell / Allen-Bradley
- FactoryTalk
- Wonderware
- Familiarity with GMP requirements, deviations, CAPAs, and change control processes.
- Strong troubleshooting, problem-solving, and communication skills.
- Ability to work cross-functionally in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Preferred Experience
- Biologics, vaccine, or large-scale pharmaceutical manufacturing experience.
- Exposure to commissioning, qualification, and validation activities.
- Experience supporting process equipment such as bioreactors, CIP/SIP systems, chromatography skids, filtration systems, utilities, or filling equipment.
- Understanding of GAMP 5 and data integrity principles.
What Success Looks Like
The successful candidate will be a hands-on automation engineer who can quickly diagnose technical issues, partner effectively with manufacturing and maintenance teams, and drive improvements that enhance equipment reliability, compliance, and operational performance.
Why CAI
CAI is a global professional services firm focused on operational readiness and performance excellence within the life sciences industry. We believe in building long-term partnerships with our clients and investing in the development of our people. If you are looking for the opportunity to work on challenging projects in a collaborative environment, we'd love to hear from you.