Automation Systems Engineer

You will drive IT setup, repeatable deployment standards, QA validation, lifecycle and vendor management, and the technology roadmap. Systems operate across ambient, cooler, freezer, dangerous goods, and regulated storage. You will also stay current on industry practices and trends. Success requires strong attention to detail in a validated environment and clear communication within IT, operations, quality, customers, and vendors.

Responsibilities

• Systems design and integration
  
  
  
  • Design and implement automated systems for dedicated and mixed-client environments, including integration between robot management (RMS), warehouse execution (WES), conveyor control (WCS/PLC), and WMS platforms.
  
  
  • Own interface design and support: APIs, message flows, data mapping, error handling, and monitoring between automation systems and the WMS
  
  
  • Partner with IT infrastructure and security on network design for automation: wireless coverage and roaming for mobile robots, segmentation of OT and IT networks, and remote vendor access controls
  
  
  • Develop layouts, capacity models, equipment specifications, and validation plans
  
  
  
  


• Compliance and validation
  
  
  
  • Lead IT’s participation in QA validation (computerized system validation): requirements, test protocols, execution, traceability, and summary reports
  
  
  • Maintain patch, firmware, and version records, test evidence, and upcoming release calendars. Run changes through formal change control and coordinate with IT, Quality, Operations, and vendors
  
  
  • Ensure data integrity, access control, and audit trail expectations are met for GxP-relevant systems
  
  
  
  


• Operations and lifecycle
  
  
  
  • Support and upgrade existing automation with components, software, and process improvements
  
  
  • Define monitoring, alerting, support tiers, spare-parts strategy, backup/restore, and downtime procedures
  
  
  • Manage vendor SLAs, maintenance options, and product roadmaps
  
  
  • Collect and analyze system performance data (throughput, fault rates, availability, utilization) and turn it into forecasts and improvement recommendations
  
  
  • Develop metrics and goals for automation programs, oversee performance, and drive resolution when problems surface
  
  
  
  


• Planning and leadership
  
  
  
  • Lead cross-functional discussions on short- and long-term automation feasibility
  
  
  • Build roadmaps from concept through implementation. Set milestones, communicate with stakeholders, and remove obstacles
  
  
  • Prepare and present studies and recommendations to senior management
  
  
  • Write and maintain SOPs, work instructions, and training materials. Train and develop staff and incorporate feedback into system improvements
  
  
  
  

Qualifications and Job Specifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Information Systems, or a related field


• 2 to 4 years of experience in industrial engineering, automation, or systems implementation


• Understanding of WMS, WES, and WCS design and functionality, and of how they exchange data


• Experience with warehouse automation such as AMRs, AGVs, conveyors, robotic arms, scanners, and put walls


• Working knowledge of healthcare logistics, including cold chain, controlled substances, and dangerous goods


• Familiarity with validated or regulated environments (GxP, CSV, change control)


• Project planning skills and working knowledge of financial terms and calculations


• Clear, concise written and verbal communication

Technical Expertise

• Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Access, Teams, OneNote, Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, AutoCAD)


• Experience with healthcare clients (pharma, medical device, nutraceuticals, animal health, vaccines, or other related areas)


• Working knowledge of PLC/WCS and MES is a plus; not required.


• Working knowledge of enterprise networking (VLANs, Wi-Fi, firewalls) and industrial protocols


• SQL and REST/JSON familiarity, and basic scripting


• Familiarity with OT cybersecurity practices


• Production deployment mindset. You monitor what you build, you own uptime, you care about latency and cost.


• Previous experience working with a lean team in a regulated industry, such as pharma, healthcare, government, or financial services is preferred.


• Excellent written communication skills; ability to translate complex technical concepts for non-technical audiences.


• Proven ability to collaborate cross-functionally across engineering, product, and customer-facing teams.

Additional Employment Requirements

• Must be able to successfully meet all preliminary employment requirements (i.e., background check and drug screen)

Physical/Mental/Visual Demands

• Work is light to medium in nature with frequent walking to perform assigned tasks.


• Work is performed in office.


• Must be able to safely conduct occasional lifting of 25 lbs.

Working Conditions

• Activities occur in a typical office environment.

LifeScience Logistics is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates will not be hired based on their race, sex, color, religion or national origin. Reasonable accommodation available for individuals with disabilities. We proudly support the employment of veterans and welcome applications from protected veterans and all qualified applicants. 

* NO AGENCIES PLEASE *