Senior Automation Engineer

PLEASE NOTE: "This is an operational technology (OT) role focused on industrial control systems (PLC/SCADA/HMI) in a pharmaceutical manufacturing environment — not IT, software, or DevOps automation." Key Accountabilities Ethics & Compliance • Ensure personal and team alignment to internal policies, GMP requirements, and regulatory standards. • Maintain required training and support audit readiness. Financial & Project Management • Follow AZ financial policies and handle resource requests. • Lead small capital projects using standard project management frameworks. Leadership & Collaboration • Connect team members to broader site objectives and ensure alignment across groups. • Understand system design end‑to‑end to support effective multi-functional work. Continuous Improvement • Drive improvements to processes supporting Lokelma manufacturing and site operations. Essential Functions • Coordinate development, implementation, and support of site automation and SCADA systems (PLC/HMI, batch, historian, MES interfaces). • Review and approve technical specifications, drawings, and code. • Lead solving, root cause analysis, and corrective actions. • Train others on systems and procedures. • Develop and implement validation protocols and maintain SOPs. • Monitor system performance and identify improvement opportunities. • Coordinate third‑party suppliers during system development, installation, and qualification. • Provide on‑call automation support. Other Responsibilities • Author and handle change records, deviations, CAPAs, and investigations. • Support internal/external audits and interactions with regulatory agencies. • Lead capital project execution within budget and timelines. • Evaluate and specify new automation tools and equipment. • Maintain documentation and ensure compliance with GMP, SOPs, and safety requirements. Safety, Health & Environment • Promote a safe work environment and proactively address hazards. Delivery & Support • Provide timely on‑call support and collaborate with maintenance and metrology teams. • Implement change controls to improve qualified systems. Cost Management • Promote cost‑conscious decision‑making. Lean & Standard Work • Ensure work follows established processes and standard procedures. People Management • No direct reports; may provide project‑based or matrix leadership. Minimum Requirements: • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field • Validated 4 years experience in one of the following: Industrial automation systems in a manufacturing environment, preferably pharmaceutical or regulated industry; OR Pharmaceutical/biologics process engineering or quality engineering with direct teamwork on automation and control systems Proven ability to fix or interpret control logic, batch sequences, or PLC programs Knowledge of process and utility development, operation and maintenance Detailed understanding of GMP related to facility development and operation Strong problem-solving skills Desirable qualifications: • Experience with Rockwell Automation control systems • Experience in automation, SCADA systems, software development • Comprehensive understanding of IT infrastructure as it relates to automated systems • Detailed understanding of electrical schematics • Understanding of instrumentation and maintenance of equipment applied in automated systems • Lean Leadership principles and application in a GxP environment Date Posted 08-Oct-2026 Closing Date 29-Oct-2026 Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form. AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company. We focus on discovering, developing and commercialising prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. But we are more than one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies. At AstraZeneca, we’re dedicated to being a Great Place to Work. Where you are empowered to push the boundaries of science, challenge convention and unleash your entrepreneurial spirit. To embrace differences and take bold actions to drive the change needed to meet global healthcare and sustainability challenges. There is no better place to make a difference in medicine, patients, and society. An inclusive culture where you will connect different thinking to generate new and valuable opportunities. Where you will find a commitment to lifelong learning, growth and development for all. Our Inclusion & Diversity (I&D) mission is to create an inclusive and equitable environment where people belong, using the power of our diversity to push the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines to patients. Inclusion and diversity are fundamental to the success of our company, because innovation requires breakthrough ideas that only come from a diverse workforce empowered to challenge conventional thinking. We’re curious about science and the advancement of knowledge. We find creative ways to approach new challenges. We’re driven to make the right choices and be accountable for our actions. As an organisation centred around what makes us human, we put a big focus on people. Across our business, we want colleagues to wake up excited about their day at the office, in the field, or in the lab. Along with our purpose to bring life-changing medicines to people across the globe, we have a promise to you: to help you realise the full breadth of your potential. Here, you’ll do work that has the potential to change your life and improve countless others. And, together with your team, you’ll shape a culture that unites and inspires us every day. This is your life at AstraZeneca.