Engineer III, Process Engineering (Automation)

Work Schedule

Standard (Mon-Fri)

Environmental Conditions

Loud Noises (Equipment/Machinery), Office, Some degree of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required (safety glasses, gowning, gloves, lab coat, ear plugs etc.), Various outside weather conditions

Job Description

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated Process Automation Engineer to drive automation improvements, integration initiatives, and process optimization efforts across our manufacturing and operational environments. This role combines technical expertise in process control systems with project leadership and a continuous improvement mindset. The engineer will collaborate with cross-functional teams, vendors, and global stakeholders to design, implement, and sustain automation solutions that improve reliability, quality, safety, and efficiency.

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Key Responsibilities

• Automation Support & Optimization

o Maintain the validated and compliant state of process control and automation systems (PLCs, DCS, SCADA, HMIs, historians, robotics, sensors, vision systems).

o Troubleshoot and resolve automation-related downtime, root causes, and performance issues.

o Monitor and optimize automation systems to improve asset utilization, quality, and throughput.

o Provide subject matter expertise (SME) on automation technology, standards, and best practices.

• Project Leadership & Integration

o Plan, lead, and execute automation projects, including capital improvements, facility expansions, and new product introductions.

o Create and manage automation roadmaps from concept through design, development, testing, commissioning, and validation.

o Develop user requirements, functional specifications, and detailed design specifications.

o Lead vendor selection, RFP processes, and manage external contractors/OEMs to ensure high-quality deliverables.

o Support cross-site automation technology deployment and ensure consistency of standards and solutions.

• Process Improvement & Innovation

o Partner with production, engineering, and operations to identify automation opportunities and develop ROI-based business cases.

o Research and evaluate emerging automation technologies to support future solutions.

o Drive continuous improvement initiatives, leveraging Lean/Six Sigma methodologies to enhance reliability and reduce risk.

o Support development and implementation of Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS) and process safety standards in alignment with PSM requirements.

• Collaboration & Training

o Collaborate with global and site leadership, technical centers, and cross-disciplinary teams.

o Provide technical training and coaching for colleagues, operators, and maintenance staff.

o Actively support audits, inspections, and compliance activities.

o Ensure adherence to change management and automation governance standards.

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Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical, Automation, or Mechatronics); master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of five (7) years of experience in process automation, controls engineering, or manufacturing automation.
• Proven expertise with DCS, PLC, HMI, SCADA, robotics, and related automation hardware/software (Honeywell, Rockwell, Siemens, DeltaV, ABB, etc.).
• Experience in system integration, programming (Ladder Logic, Structured Text, etc.), and commissioning.
• Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP) and MES/MOM systems.
• Familiarity with process safety management (PSM), safety instrumented systems (SIS), and high-hazard process environments (preferred for chemical/pharma).
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and organizational skills with a continuous improvement mindset.
• Demonstrated ability to manage capital projects, budgets, and cross-functional teams.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to influence and lead without direct authority.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and 3D CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks) is a plus.

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Work Environment

• Primarily site-based role with occasional travel to vendors, conferences, or other manufacturing sites.
• Hands-on engagement with manufacturing equipment and automation systems.
• Fast-paced, collaborative environment requiring flexibility and adaptability.

Compensation and Benefits

The salary range estimated for this position based in New Jersey is $86,300.00-$129,500.00.

This position may also be eligible to receive a variable annual bonus based on company, team, and/or individual performance results in accordance with company policy. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package that our U.S. colleagues and their families can count on, which includes:

• A choice of national medical and dental plans, and a national vision plan, including health incentive programs

• Employee assistance and family support programs, including commuter benefits and tuition reimbursement

• At least 120 hours paid time off (PTO), 10 paid holidays annually, paid parental leave (3 weeks for bonding and 8 weeks for caregiver leave), accident and life insurance, and short- and long-term disability in accordance with company policy

• Retirement and savings programs, such as our competitive 401(k) U.S. retirement savings plan

• Employees' Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) offers eligible colleagues the opportunity to purchase company stock at a discount

For more information on our benefits, please visit: https://jobs.thermofisher.com/global/en/total-rewards