Plant Automation and Controls Engineer

Plant Automation and Controls Engineer (Industrial Automation)

Biosphere is developing bioproduction systems to unleash industrial biotech. Our manufacturing platform is enabled by a transformative improvement to bioreactor sterilization. Supported by top technology investors like Lowercarbon Capital and Founders Fund, we expect to grow substantially over the coming year. Learn more at https://www.biosphere.io/about

About the Role

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Industrial Automation and Controls Engineer to join our growing team in Oakland, CA. In this role, you will be the primary controls specialist responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining control systems used in our novel bioreactor technology. You will work alongside our interdisciplinary team of hardware engineers, process engineers, computer scientists, analytical chemists, and molecular biologists to advance our innovative bioprocess systems. This role is in-person, with occasional accommodation for remote work as the role allows. 

Responsibilities

• Integrate process units and individual machine systems into a factory automation system.
• Develop, modify, and troubleshoot ladder logic programs for various PLC platforms.
• Design and configure Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) to monitor and control bioreactor systems.
• Design, review, and implement electrical control circuits, including selecting components (relays, sensors, switches, VFDs, etc.) and developing schematics using CAD tools.
• Ensure seamless integration between PLCs, HMIs, and other field devices such as sensors, actuators and communication protocols.
• Convert process controls narratives to plant controls deliverables needed to properly automate unit operations.
• Perform Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) for control systems.
• During commissioning, take responsibility for the start-up of the plant controls systems and individual equipment systems.
• Lead instrumentation troubleshooting and optimization efforts utilizing internal and external resources.
• Develop documentation and apply engineering best practices for plant controls and automation.
• Work with automation vendors to get our systems designed and built.
• Work with our software/IT team to integrate plant systems with our in-house SCADA. 

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechatronics, Control Systems, Automation Engineering (or a related field), or equivalent experience.
• 3+ years of experience in PLC programming and industrial automation systems.
• Hands-on experience with controls circuit design and electrical schematics.
• Knowledge of data logging software and data management systems.
• Proficiency in ladder logic programming for PLCs. 
• Familiarity with HMI/SCADA software.
• Strong knowledge of control circuit design, including electrical standards and safety.
• Familiarity with communication protocols
• Proficiency in CAD tools for electrical schematics and control panel layouts.
• Ability to read and develop engineering drawings such as P&IDs, electrical and controls schematics.
• Wiring, soldering, and low-voltage electronics experience, specifically for industrial automation. Experience working with high-voltage is nice to have but not necessary.
• Previous experience in biotechnology / fermentation is an asset, but not required.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with distributed control systems.
• Previous experience starting up a production and/or a manufacturing line.
• Project management experience and cost tracking skills.
• PCBA design, SMT not required.

Benefits

At Biosphere, our goal is to empower talented individuals who are driven by the desire to work on tackling society's biggest challenges. To that end, we take pride in striving to be an equal opportunity employer with a healthy work culture, creating an environment where high performers can thrive. We currently offer the following benefits:

• Competitive compensation through a mix of salary and equity.
• Unlimited paid vacation and sick/leave days + public holidays.
• Comprehensive health insurance for employees and their dependents, including dental & vision.
• Family leave (both maternity and paternity).
• Memberships at Pacific Pipe Climbing gym next door.

This Role Might Be For You If You:

• Are excited about biomanufacturing and novel production technologies.
• Enjoy solving complex automation challenges.
• Thrive in a collaborative environment where you will lead controls initiatives.
• Are self-driven, collaborative, and results-oriented.
• Are energized at the idea of helping to contribute to a positive work culture.

Biosphere is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.