Process Automation Engineer

Role Overview

We are looking for a Process Automation Engineer to support a brownfield vaccine manufacturing project. This role sits within the Process Engineering team and acts as the critical interface between Process Engineering and Automation during project execution, commissioning, and start-up.

The role requires strong hands-on capability in DeltaV, combined with solid process knowledge (CIP, SIP, upstream operations) and the ability to troubleshoot complex issues in a live GMP environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, configure, and support DeltaV control strategies, including modules, phases, batch logic, alarms, and interlocks.

• Perform advanced troubleshooting of DeltaV systems during commissioning, start-up, and live operations.

• Support changes and enhancements to existing automation systems in a brownfield environment.

• Act as the key liaison between Process Engineering, Automation, Operations, and Vendors, ensuring process intent is correctly translated into automation logic.

• Review and interpret process documentation (URS, PFDs, P&IDs, control narratives) and ensure accurate implementation in DeltaV.

• Support alignment between process requirements and automation design decisions.

• Support FAT, SAT, commissioning, and start-up activities for vaccine manufacturing systems.

• Participate in IQ/OQ activities and support validation teams during testing and issue resolution.

• Assist with punch list management, deviation handling, and readiness for handover to operations.

• Provide automation support for CIP/SIP systems, upstream processing equipment, and associated utilities.

• Ensure automation behaviour supports robust, compliant, and efficient manufacturing operations.

• Support process troubleshooting related to automation behaviour, sequencing, or control logic.

• Support change control, deviation investigations, impact assessments, and CAPAs related to automation and process changes.

• Ensure all automation changes comply with GMP, data integrity, and site quality systems.

• Support audits and inspections related to automation and process control systems.

• Support project execution in a fast-paced brownfield environment, balancing project delivery with live production constraints.

• Participate in project meetings, design reviews, and technical discussions.

• Work closely with Operations post-start-up to stabilise systems and resolve early-life issues.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Automation, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline.

• 4–7 years of experience in pharmaceutical or vaccine manufacturing environments.

• Strong hands-on experience with DeltaV coding, configuration, and troubleshooting.

• Solid understanding of process engineering, particularly CIP, SIP, and upstream manufacturing processes.

• Experience supporting commissioning, SAT, and qualification activities.

• Familiarity with GMP requirements, change control, deviations, and validation practices.

• Strong communication skills and proven ability to work across Process, Automation, QA, and Operations teams.

• Comfortable working in a brownfield, live production environment.