Automation Engineer

COMPANY DESCRIPTION:

Syner-G BioPharma Group and Sequoia Biotech Consulting recently merged in September 2024, uniting two industry leaders to create a new force in life sciences consulting. By combining our expertise in product development, regulatory strategy, quality and compliance and commercial manufacturing, we are positioned to deliver fully integrated solutions across the development continuum. 
 
We are helping to enhance human health. This merger strengthens our ability to accelerate groundbreaking therapies and help clients navigate the complex life sciences landscape with greater agility and confidence. Together, we form a leading life sciences consultancy dedicated to empowering organizations to overcome complex challenges and accelerate the speed to market, scale and quality of life-saving innovations.  

We work across a diverse range of clients and projects, supporting many organizations through the most critical phases of the drug discovery, approval, product development, technology transfer and commercial manufacturing process. We also equip our partners with the tools, knowledge and expertise to streamline operations, enhance quality and ensure compliance. 

Syner-G BioPharma Group was recently honored with BioSpace's prestigious "Best Places to Work" 2025 award, for the second consecutive year, along with many other award-winning programs to make a career here truly life-enhancing. These recognitions are a testament to our commitment to fostering a positive and engaging work environment for our employees, with a particular emphasis on culture, career growth and development opportunities, financial rewards, leadership and innovation. 

At Syner-G and Sequoia, we recognize that our team members are our most valuable asset. Join us in shaping the future, where your talents are valued, and your contributions make a meaningful impact. 

For more information, visit www.Sequoiabiotech.com/ or www.Synergbiopharma.com

POSITION OVERVIEW
Sequoia is seeking a skilled Automation Engineer with strong experience in MES implementation, industrial automation systems, and instrumentation and control engineering. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a GMP-regulated environment and has a deep understanding of automation system design, integration, and lifecycle management. The ideal candidate will be well-versed in automation SDLC, network infrastructure, and distributed control systems, including historian and batch software.

WORK LOCATION:

Travel to client sites may be required up to 100%, based on project demands and client expectations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
(This list is not exhaustive and may be supplemented and changed as necessary.)

• Lead the design, configuration, and implementation of automation systems for facility upgrades, capacity expansions, and equipment replacements
• Drive MES project execution, with a focus on electronic batch records and integration with plant control systems
• Develop and review automation design documentation, including Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), Process & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), and control philosophies
• Configure and support systems such as PI, Win-911, and InfoBatch
• Manage the full automation lifecycle of control components, from design through validation and maintenance
• Collaborate with vendors to review and approve automation-related documentation and ensure compliance with validation and control system requirements
• Support commissioning, start-up, and troubleshooting of process equipment and automation systems
• Generate and maintain controlled documents to support system operation, validation, and compliance
• Provide technical input for validation protocols and reports related to automation systems
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Process Engineering, Manufacturing, QA, and IT to ensure seamless integration of automation solutions

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

Education

• BS degree in Engineering (Chemical, Electrical, or Automation preferred) and 8 years of experience, or
• MS degree in Engineering and 6 years of experience

Technical Experience

• 8 years of experience in automation and control systems engineering
• 5 years in the pharmaceutical/biotech industry with GMP experience
• Proven experience in MES implementation, especially electronic batch records
• Strong understanding of automation SDLC and validation practices
• Proficient in configuring and supporting systems such as PI, Win-911, and InfoBatch
• Experience with BMS systems (Delta Controls preferred)
• Deep understanding of network architecture, including firewall and switch configuration and virtualized environments
• Practical knowledge of process, utility, and building control systems
• Familiarity with cleanroom and classified area requirements
• Proficient in ISA standards, PID control theory, and PLC programming
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Physical Demands

• Regular use of computer and office equipment
• Occasional lifting of objects up to 25 pounds
• Ability to walk, sit, stand, and perform light physical tasks

Work Environment

• Office-based with occasional visits to manufacturing or utility areas
• Moderate noise levels and bright lighting typical of office settings

TOTAL REWARDS PROGRAM
Sequoia offers a comprehensive total rewards package including competitive salary, annual incentives, flexible work arrangements, generous paid time off, and robust benefits. We support career development and offer remote work options for most roles.

COMPENSATION
The expected salary range for this position is $107,000 to $130,000, based on experience, qualifications, and location.

LEGAL STATEMENT:
 
Syner-G BioPharma Group and Sequoia Biotech Consulting are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employers. All employment decisions, including the recruiting, hiring, placement, training availability, promotion, compensation, evaluation, disciplinary actions, and termination of employment (if necessary) are made without regard to the employee’s race, color, creed, religion, sex, pregnancy or childbirth, personal appearance, family responsibilities, sexual orientation or preference, gender identity, political affiliation, source of income, place of residence, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, age, marital status, military veteran status, unfavorable discharge from military service, physical or mental disability, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law. Syner-G BioPharma is an E-Verify employer.