SoTalent · 14 hours ago
Automation Engineer
Walkersville, MD
Full-time
Onsite
Mid Level
$100K/yr - $160K/yrSoTalent is a global life sciences manufacturing organization seeking an Automation Engineer to support site-level Automation and Operational Technology (OT) systems in a regulated production environment. This role involves providing hands-on technical support across manufacturing, utilities, and laboratory automation platforms while collaborating with senior engineers and cross-functional teams.
Staffing & Recruiting
Responsibilities
Provide hands-on support for automation and OT systems across manufacturing, utilities, and laboratory environments, including PLCs, SCADA, BAS/EMS, and MES platforms
Assist senior engineers with troubleshooting, configuration, maintenance, and system optimisation
Monitor automation systems for alarms, deviations, and performance issues, performing routine checks and basic corrective actions
Support daily operation of automation infrastructure, including user access management, backups, patching, and security updates
Assist with system upgrades, validation testing, and change control activities under supervision
Participate in installation, commissioning, and qualification of new or upgraded equipment
Investigate automation and OT issues, collect data, and document findings
Maintain accurate system documentation, inventories, and compliance records
Support internal and external audits by preparing documentation and providing technical input
Collaborate with Engineering, IT, Quality, and Manufacturing teams to improve system performance and reliability
Contribute to cybersecurity and data integrity initiatives, applying foundational protection measures
Provide end-user support and informal training to operations and maintenance teams
Continuously develop automation knowledge and technical skills through hands-on learning and mentorship
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field
Prior experience supporting automation, OT, IT, or control systems in pharmaceutical or biotechnology manufacturing environments
Strong hands-on experience with automation and control systems in a production setting
Knowledge of Rockwell-based systems and experience with EMS/BAS platforms and/or systems such as Emerson DeltaV, Ignition, or Niagara
Understanding of plant monitoring systems and integrated automation environments
Foundational knowledge of regulated manufacturing (e.g. GMP, 21 CFR Part 11, Annex 11)
Awareness of network fundamentals (VLANs, switches, firewalls)
Strong communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally in a regulated, fast-paced environment
Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently with appropriate supervision
Preferred
Exposure to cybersecurity practices (account management, patching, endpoint protection, secure access)
Experience assisting with network configuration or system maintenance
Certifications such as ISA/IEC 62443, CompTIA Security+, or vendor-specific credentials
Experience with MES systems
Experience with HVAC or building automation controls
Benefits
Performance-related bonus
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) with employer matching
Life insurance, short-term and long-term disability coverage
Employee assistance programs
Paid time off (PTO)
Company
SoTalent
At SoTechTalent, we specialise in connecting forward-thinking tech companies with world-class talent.
Founded in 2024
2-10 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageCompany data provided by crunchbase