Senior Automation Specialist, Mechanic & Controls

Position Summary
The Senior Automation Specialist – Mechanical Systems & Controls is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and optimizing automation systems supporting critical mechanical utilities—including HVAC, steam, chilled water, and compressed air—within a regulated facility environment. This role ensures automation system reliability, efficiency, and compliance, with a focus on Siemens Building Management Systems (BMS), Allen-Bradley PLCs, and SCADA platforms.

While not directly performing mechanical maintenance, this role requires strong mechanical systems knowledge to support and guide the mechanical maintenance team. The specialist collaborates closely with engineering, operations, and facilities groups to ensure system functionality and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Automation System Management & Optimization

• Maintain, troubleshoot, and improve automation systems supporting HVAC and utility infrastructure.

• Support Siemens BMS, Allen-Bradley PLCs, and SCADA platforms to ensure integration and performance.

• Configure and optimize automation control loops, instrumentation, actuators, valves, and dampers.

• Perform updates, backups, and programming to enhance system performance.

• Troubleshoot and calibrate devices such as temperature sensors, flow meters, and pressure transmitters.

• Configure, maintain, and troubleshoot Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) from various manufacturers.

Project Execution & Integration

• Lead or support automation upgrades, new installations, and system modifications.

• Ensure alignment of automation systems with mechanical requirements in collaboration with facilities and engineering.

• Support commissioning, validation, and qualification activities in GxP-regulated environments.

• Oversee system integration across automation platforms, enterprise systems, and facility controls.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure automation systems comply with FDA, GxP, and other regulatory standards.

• Support audits, deviations, and change control processes.

• Follow SOPs, Good Engineering Practices (GEPs), and site safety regulations.

Sustainability & Continuous Improvement

• Drive energy efficiency and sustainability improvements through automation.

• Identify and implement optimization strategies to improve reliability and reduce environmental impact.

• Integrate smart controls to support corporate sustainability goals.

Training, Coaching & Vendor Coordination

• Train staff on BMS and automation system use and maintenance.

• Provide coaching to the mechanical maintenance team on automation and troubleshooting.

• Evaluate vendor solutions and support contract negotiations to enhance automation capabilities.

• Coordinate vendor services for equipment repairs and automation upgrades.

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain detailed documentation of automation configurations, troubleshooting logs, and updates.

• Prepare performance reports and recommend improvements based on system analytics.

• Review project documentation for automation system compatibility and requirements.

Additional Responsibilities

• Respond to urgent automation system issues as needed.

• Collaborate effectively across departments and with external stakeholders.

• Use diagnostic tools and specialized software for system monitoring and optimization.

Education & Experience Requirements

Minimum Education:

• High School Diploma with 10+ years of experience in industrial automation, or

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering with 5+ years of experience in automation systems.

Required Experience:

• 5+ years with Siemens BMS and Allen-Bradley PLCs in mechanical system automation.

• 5+ years troubleshooting and optimizing PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA platforms.

• Experience integrating automation protocols (BACnet, Modbus, OPC, MQTT) with mechanical systems.

• Experience working with field instrumentation and VFDs from major manufacturers.

Skills & Competencies

System Expertise:

• In-depth knowledge of Siemens BMS, Allen-Bradley PLCs, SCADA systems.

• Understanding of HVAC and utility system automation, including process control.

• Proficient in instrumentation diagnostics, calibration, and loop tuning.

Compliance & Documentation:

• Strong understanding of GxP, FDA regulations, and validation requirements.

• Experienced in audit support and compliant documentation practices.

Technical Proficiency:

• Skilled in programming and diagnostics for PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems.

• Familiar with industrial cybersecurity and energy optimization techniques.

Communication:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Able to draft technical documentation, SOPs, and system schematics.

Analytical & Mathematical:

• Strong process control analysis and statistical troubleshooting capabilities.

• Applies mathematical principles to automation logic and system tuning.

Problem-Solving & Project Management:

• Able to diagnose system issues and implement corrective actions quickly.

• Manages multiple projects while ensuring regulatory and safety compliance.

Computer Skills:

• Proficient in Siemens Desigo CC, Allen-Bradley software, SAP, and Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Project).

• Experienced with diagnostic software for system monitoring and optimization.

What’s Next?

Ready to make a significant! Apply today and become a key contributor to our innovative team! For more details, get in touch with Brandon Mays, our Talent Acquisition Partner.

Why AstraZeneca?
At AstraZeneca, we seize opportunities to innovate and redefine what’s possible in biopharmaceuticals. Our mission to deliver transformative medicines is underpinned by a culture of collaboration, inclusivity, and ambition. Join us in a role where your work directly gives to breakthroughs in oncology, empowering patients and changing lives.

Competitive Benefits and Compensation:
We offer a competitive Total Reward program, including market-driven base salary, bonuses, long-term incentives, and comprehensive health benefits. Additional benefits include generous paid time off, retirement plans, and access to ongoing professional development opportunities.

Diversity and Inclusion:
AstraZeneca is committed to fostering an inclusive, diverse environment where all employees feel valued and empowered. We welcome applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds and are proud to provide reasonable accommodations to ensure equal opportunity throughout the recruitment process.

The annual base pay (or hourly rate of compensation) for this position ranges from $89,874 - $134,812 USD Annual, either as annual base pay or as the hourly rate (annual base pay divided by 2080 hours)]. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.  In addition, our positions offer a short-term incentive bonus opportunity; eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program (salaried roles), to receive a retirement contribution (hourly roles), and commission payment eligibility (sales roles). Benefits offered included a qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]; paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves; and, health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans. Additional details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors. 

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.