Lonza · 1 day ago
Automation Engineer
US - Walkersville MD
Full-time
Onsite
Mid Level
$100K/yr - $160K/yrLonza is a global leader in life sciences manufacturing, and they are seeking an Automation Engineer to provide hands-on support for automation and Operational Technology systems in manufacturing and laboratory environments. The role involves troubleshooting, maintaining system reliability, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to improve performance and compliance in a regulated setting.
BiotechnologyLife SciencePharmaceutical
Responsibilities
Provide hands-on support for site Automation and Operational Technology (OT) systems used in manufacturing, utilities, and laboratory environments, including PLCs, SCADA, BAS/EMS, and MES platforms
Assist senior engineers with troubleshooting, configuration, and maintenance to ensure system reliability, data integrity, and compliance in a regulated (GMP) setting
Monitor automation and control systems for alarms, performance issues, and deviations; perform routine checks and basic corrective actions
Support day-to-day operation of automation infrastructure, including user management, system backups, patching, and security updates
Assist with small-scale system changes, upgrades, and validation testing under supervision, following established change control procedures
Participate in installation, commissioning, and qualification activities for new or upgraded equipment
Help investigate automation or OT system issues, gather data, and document findings under guidance from senior team members
Maintain accurate system documentation, inventories, and records in alignment with site quality and compliance requirements
Support internal and external audits by preparing documentation and providing basic technical information
Collaborate with cross-functional partners in Engineering, IT, Quality, and Manufacturing to resolve issues and improve system performance
Contribute to cybersecurity and data integrity programs by applying basic protection measures and supporting periodic updates
Provide end-user assistance and informal training to operations and maintenance personnel on proper system use and troubleshooting basics
Demonstrate initiative in developing technical knowledge and advancing automation skills through on-the-job learning and mentorship
Qualification
Required
Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field
Prior experience supporting automation, OT, IT, or controls systems in pharmaceutical or biotechnology manufacturing environments
Awareness of network fundamentals including VLANs, switches, and firewalls
Strong hands-on experience working directly with automation and control systems in a production setting
Deep technical expertise with Rockwell-based systems, Environmental Monitoring Systems (EMS) and/or Building Automation Systems (BAS), and/or Emerson DeltaV, Ignition, or Niagara
Experience supporting Plant Monitoring Systems (PMS) and managing integrated or managed automation systems
Ability to manage assigned tasks independently with supervision and to seek guidance when needed
Exposure to cybersecurity practices—account management, patching, endpoint protection, and secure access
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with operations, engineering, contractors, and external consultants
Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously in a fast-paced, regulated environment
Foundational knowledge of regulated manufacturing concepts such as GMP, 21 CFR Part 11, or Annex 11
Preferred
Experience assisting with network configuration, system maintenance, or cybersecurity controls is beneficial but not required
Certifications such as ISA/IEC 62443, CompTIA Security+, or vendor-specific credentials are a plus
Experience with MES is a plus but not a primary requirement
Experience with HVAC controls is a plus but not a primary requirement
Benefits
Performance-related bonus.
Medical, dental and vision insurance.
401(k) matching plan.
Life insurance, as well as short-term and long-term disability insurance.
Employee assistance programs.
Paid time off (PTO).
Company
Lonza
Lonza Group supplies products and services to pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries.
Founded in 1897
10001+ employees
H1B Sponsorship
Lonza has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2024 (3)
2022 (1)
2021 (3)
2020 (2)
Funding
Current Stage
Public CompanyTotal Funding
$444.8M2023-11-06Post Ipo Debt· $444.8M
2020-12-07IPO
Leadership Team
Wolfgang Wienand
Chief Executive Officer
Alfons Ehinger
Founder
Recent News
2026-01-07
2026-01-05
Company data provided by crunchbase