Automation Engineer at Lonza Inc. in Vacaville, California

Job Description:

Automation Engineer

Location: Vacaville, CA

Relocation assistance is available for eligible candidates and their families, if needed.

Today, Lonza is a global leader in life sciences operating across five continents. While we work in science, there’s no magic formula to how we do it. Our greatest scientific solution is talented people working together, devising ideas that help businesses to help people. In exchange, we let our people own their careers. Their ideas, big and small, genuinely improve the world. And that’s the kind of work we want to be part of.

Join Lonza AG in Vacaville, CA as an Automation Engineer. Work with the Process Automation Group's Project Support team on exciting projects such as tech transfers and new technology introductions. The projects include Cell Culture Plants (CCP) 1 and 2, as well as Distributed & Manufacturing Control Systems (DCS - Siemens/Modicon and MCS Honeywell/Rockwell).

Key responsibilities:

• Provide automation support to Vacaville Manufacturing Operations.


• Develop and update automation-related specifications and participate in design reviews for CCP1 DCS and CCP2 MCS.


• Perform off-line and on-line coding, testing, and peer reviewing.


• Own the design, development, and execution of Automation Change Records (ACRs), Quality Change Records, and control qualification/commissioning test documentation.


• Serve as the automation lead for unit operations, driving efficient issue resolution and change implementation on large/complex projects.


• Assess proposed changes and evaluate discrepancies during manufacturing operations.


• Troubleshoot process, equipment, and system malfunctions or failures.


• Participate in the on-call rotation to provide 24/7 support for CCP1 DCS and CCP2 MCS automation systems.


• Review completed ACRs and tests for completeness and accuracy.


• Manage unplanned event actions, assessments, and record ownership and coordinate planned event assessments and actions.


• Act as the automation representative across functional departments.


• Contribute to the development of policies and standards for the Automation Field at the site.


• Implement new approaches within Automation to improve quality and efficiency.

Key requirements:

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, or Chemical Engineering is preferred.


• Proven experience in automation within a manufacturing or life sciences environment.


• Understanding of distributed control systems, process control systems, software development methodologies, and automated systems life cycle support in a regulated industry.


• Understanding of engineering techniques and principles and the ability to apply that knowledge as required.


• Understanding of cGMP particularly as they relate to the operation, validation, and maintenance of computer-controlled systems.


• Familiarity with Instrumentation, Systems, and Automation Society (ISA) Standards S88 and S95 as well as the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE) Good Automated Manufacturing Practice (GAMP) Guide to the Validation of Automated Systems.


• Working knowledge of the Food and Drug (FDA) Code of Federal Regulations (CFRs) and the European Medicines Authority (EMA) including the International Council for Harmonization (ICH) regulations.

Every day, Lonza’s products and services have a positive impact on millions of people. For us, this is not only a great privilege, but also a great responsibility. How we achieve our business results is just as important as the achievements themselves. At Lonza, we respect and protect our people and our environment. Any success we achieve is no success at all if not achieved ethically.

People come to Lonza for the challenge and creativity of solving complex problems and developing new ideas in life sciences. In return, we offer the satisfaction that comes with improving lives all around the world. The satisfaction that comes with making a meaningful difference.

The full-time base annual salary for this position is between $92,700 and $108,150. Compensation for the role will depend on a number of factors, including the successful candidate’s qualifications, skills, competencies, experience, and job-related knowledge. Full-time employees receive a comprehensive benefits package including performance-related bonus, medical and dental coverage, 401k plan, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance, an employee assistance program, paid time off (PTO), and more.

Lonza is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a qualified individual with disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.