Job Title: Automation Technician
Job Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104
Job Duration: 12 months contract with possible extension
Description:
We are seeking a highly skilled Automation Technician to support the field commissioning, testing, and startup of a state-of-the-art pharmaceutical biotechnology facility. The role will be instrumental in deploying, commissioning and testing critical automated equipment , infrastructure, ensuring seamless integration across Building Automation Systems (BAS), PLCs, EMS, HMIs, SCADA, Process Control Systems (PCS) and ITOT networks. This position requires hands-on electro-mechanical troubleshooting, precise instrument calibration, code review and troubleshooting, and strict adherence to the Engineering Change Notification (ECN) process and cGMP documentation standards to bring the facility online safely and efficiently.
Responsibilities:
• Specific Platforms: Hands-on experience with Rockwell Automation (Allen-Bradley) Contrologix 5000 PLCs, FactoryTalk, Siemens Desigo BAS, Vaisala view Linc EMS and familiar with Emerson Delta V.
• Hardware & Software: High proficiency in using computer interfaces for system diagnostics, along with a deep understanding of industrial IT networks (Ethernet/IP, PROFINET, BacNet, etc.).
• System Maintenance & Optimization: Support, maintain, and troubleshoot Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, and Building Automation Systems (BAS).
• System Commissioning & Testing: Execute field I/O checkout, loop checks, and functional testing for automated pharmaceutical process equipment, clean utilities, and HVAC systems.
• Electrical & Wiring Diagnostics: Troubleshoot low-voltage wiring, control loops, and field instrumentation. Utilize digital voltage multimeters and related diagnostic tools to identify and resolve electrical faults safely and efficiently.
• Blueprint & Schematic Navigation: Read, interpret, and redline schematic wiring diagrams, Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&ID), and Automation Flow & Instrumentation Diagrams (AF&ID) to execute repairs and modifications.
• Logic & Programming: Access and navigate ladder logic to diagnose machine faults, track system states, and support engineering in minor logic modifications or process improvements.
• Network Infrastructure: Troubleshoot and maintain the industrial IT network infrastructure connecting automation components, ensuring seamless data acquisition and system communication.
• Calibration & Instrumentation: Perform routine and non-routine instrument calibration using specialized calibration equipment to ensure process accuracy and regulatory compliance.
• Diagnostic Tools: Demonstrated proficiency operating digital voltage multimeters, loop calibrators, and other specialized instrument calibration equipment. Perform and oversee loop checks, Signal verification, troubleshooting of instrumentation to ensure proper installation and functionality.
• Documentation & Compliance: Maintain accurate records of all maintenance, troubleshooting, and calibration activities in alignment with Engineering Change Notification (ECN) process, Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) and site standard operating procedures.
• Ensure that instrumentation installation complies with project specifications.
• Where applicable organize testing and verification strategy for instrumentation.
• Support necessary functional testing of control systems, alarms, and safety systems.
• Review P&IDs , Loop Drawings / Wiring Diagrams, Technical Specifications and calibration records (As Applicable).
• Execute and document infield verification and resolve any discrepancies.
• Strong understanding of Instrumentation systems including pressure, temperature, flow, level, control valves, analyzers etc.
• Maintain and organize tracker for identified discrepancies and issues and drive to resolution ensuring minimal impact to project timelines.
Education and Experience Requirements:
• Associates degree in Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation, or a related
technical discipline (or equivalent military/professional experience).
• Minimum 5 years of automation, instrumentation, or electrical controls experience, preferably
within the pharmaceutical, biotech, or medical device industries.
• Strong communication skills.
• Experience with Large Capital Project Execution
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and cross-communicate with project team, contract vendors, sub-contractors.