Automation Engineer

**JOB SUMMARY / PURPOSE**

The role is primarily responsible for maintaining the plant automation ( OT ) systems, ensuring latest programs and software backups are archived and readily available for all programmable electronic systems such as PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, VFDs etc, The role is also tasked to ensure that calibrations are done in time, any changes to automation systems are approved and tracked, critical parts are available, automation maintenance and calibrations are carried out as per schedules. This role will also be responsible in supporting the automation design, development, implementation and validation of new control systems including MES, Digital Factory, IOT and Industry 4.0 program.

**RESPONSIBILITIES**

1. Manage, maintain and troubleshoot plant automation, instrumentation and controls OT infrastructure.

2. Support any projects or capex involving automation by directing and monitoring vendor activities including design, development and testing, evaluation of vendor documents including system design specifications and installations

3. Create and maintain operational as built and operating documentation for plant control system infrastructure

4. Propose & implement minor modifications to systems, equipment, processes and operations to improve safety, increase efficiency and achieve company goals.

5. Develop a detailed understanding of automation systems including Rockwell Logix PLCs (Compact Logix, Control Logix, etc.) Panel View, Wonderware ArchestrA & Intouch, Wonderware Historian, SQL database, ASI, Profibus, DeviceNet, ControlNet, EtherNet/IP, FTAC, Power Flex VFDs and any other control systems installed at site.

6. Ensure latest backups and crash recovery procedures are updated and tested to recover any Programmable Electronic System (PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, VFDs, Controllers etc) in case of a crash or PLC failure

7. Ensure that changes carried out on the automation systems through the change control process do not compromise the safety, environmental or quality stance of the plant

8. Ensure automation systems comply with regulatory guidelines. Maintain the validated status of production equipment and associated control systems in accordance with GAMP requirements, departmental procedures and SOPs.

9. Development and/or review of URS for process and automation systems

10. Lead the development and integration of new technologies and existing projects.

11. Review validation documentation (FAT, IQ/OQ etc.). Assist with qualification and validation activities as required

12. Lead the site calibration programs as per global calibration standard guidelines. Ensure that calibration master list is aligned with all stake holders, kept updated for any new projects and calibrations completed in time

13. Liaise with vendors and Manufacturing team to maintain calibration schedules on instrument and weighting devices as specified in the calibration master list and calibration related procedures to ensure minimization of food safety, quality, EHS issues and risks due to calibration or instrumentation failure

14. Work closely with the Global Automation Manager to deliver compliance with Global Automation Standards.

15. Work closely with Project team to assist in planning and executing site capital projects for automation / OT standpoint

16. Ensure automation related critical spares and parts availability for all PLC systems, VFDs and instruments

17. Ensure the data for all key operational reports is accurate. Trouble shoot and resolve any issues with data quality for OT reports.

18. Any other ad hoc tasks / assignment / projects related to OT / Automation as assigned

**PRE-REQUISITES**
- Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical/Electronics/Mechatronics Engineering
- Additional qualification / trainings in automation OT would be preferred
- Minimum 3-5 years of experience as an Automation Engineer preferably in manufacturing plant
- Experience in Automation validation in accordance with GMP would be preferred

Knowledge and job skills
- Configuration, maintenance and experience in Allen-Bradley PLC’s, Wonderware InTouch, InSQL, ASI, Profibus, ControlNet, DeviceNet, BackNet, Modbus and etc
- Knowledge of Ethernet and other network based I/O systems are preferred
- Expertise with HMI software including Wonderware ArchestrA/Intouch/Panel View preferred
- Knowledge of machine safety requirements preferred
- Basic understanding of ATEX / Explosion proof systems

Soft skills
- Demonstrated history of positive interpersonal skills showing courtesy, tact, and understanding in interactions with co-workers, even under stressful circumstances required
- Ability to work on own initiative, self-motivated
- Ability to work without close supervision in a team-based environment are essential for this position
- High energy level and strong work ethic
- Strong written and verbal communication and computer skills required