Automation Engineer

Job Title: Automation Engineer - R&D
Directorate: Logistics
Location: Milton Keynes, UK
Reporting to: Production Supervisor
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: £65,000 per annum + Exceptional Benefits (Health & Wellbeing, Family Support, Time Away, Lifestyle Perks)

About the Role

Are you ready to play a key role in shaping the future of automation within a state-of-the-art R&D facility?

We're looking for an experienced Automation Engineer to join our team in Milton Keynes. As a senior contributor, you'll lead the design and implementation of cutting-edge process control systems-PLC, DCS, HMI, SCADA-for a high-performance, GMP-regulated manufacturing environment.

This is an exciting opportunity to make a direct impact on the setup and development of a new facility, work on high-value capital projects, and support innovative product introductions with advanced automation solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Lead automation engineering on large-scale capital projects from design through validation and startup.

Develop and maintain control systems using PLC, DCS, HMI, and SCADA technologies.

Write and review key documentation (URS, SDS, IQ/OQ/PQ, SOPs) and ensure compliance with GAMP and 21 CFR Part 11.

Support system lifecycle activities, including change control and system upgrades.

Troubleshoot control systems and instrumentation, perform root cause analyses, and recommend improvements.

Lead the design, integration, and testing of automation systems for both new and existing process equipment.

Collaborate across departments to support safe, reliable, and compliant operations.

Provide out-of-hours engineering support as needed (rotational/on-call basis).

What We're Looking For

Education & Experience:

Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Chemical/Biotech Engineering, or a related discipline.

Minimum 2 years of hands-on experience with Emerson DeltaV (v11+) and Rockwell Automation FactoryTalk / ControlLogix.

Proven track record in pharmaceutical or biotech process automation and compliance with cGMP standards.

Technical Skills:

Expertise in batch control systems, automation software development, and industry standards (ASTM E2500, ISA S88/S95).

Experience with CIP, COP, HVAC, autoclaves, bioreactors, and water systems (RO/WFI).

Skilled in process control documentation, commissioning, and validation.

Soft Skills:

Strong leadership, communication, and technical writing skills.

Comfortable working in cross-functional teams and adapting standard principles to complex challenges.

Why Join Us?

Be part of a pioneering R&D setup with direct influence on design and operations.

Thrive in a dynamic, innovation-driven environment with clear opportunities for progression.

Enjoy a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package focused on wellbeing, work-life balance, and family care