SLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening) · 11 hours ago
Automation Engineer
Mount Prospect, IL
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
$103K/yr - $155K/yr
5+ years expSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening) is part of Thermo Fisher Scientific, where you'll drive IT/OT convergence across the Clinical Trials Division (CTD). The Automation Engineer will be responsible for designing, developing, and assisting with the implementation of computerized systems at CTD sites, ensuring seamless integration of manufacturing equipment with network connectivity.
AssociationBiotechnologyCommunitiesGovernmentInformation Technology
Responsibilities
Lead the integration of IT and OT systems by identifying hardware, software, and network architecture to ensure seamless communication and data sharing across CTD sites
Assist with scaling automation initiatives across CTD operations, including equipment selection and designing of automation architecture, particularly for packaging equipment and related systems
Support system data collection, analysis, and visualization to guide process enhancements
Partner with Business Leads and IT-OT Automation Leads to support project teams in developing and improving process automation with IT-supported applications
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to serve as a technical mentor in automation and support long-term automation strategies, participating in design reviews, project meetings, and technical discussions
Develop User Requirement Specifications (URS) for new equipment and systems to ensure new equipment compatibility with the established network connectivity framework
Develop strategy for upgrading existing equipment to achieve network connectivity
Support all phases of equipment qualification and process validation. Assist with training and support of staff on new and upgraded equipment, including technical documentation such as design specifications, test plans, and user manuals
Monitor the performance of newly deployed systems and provide technical support and guidance to site-level engineers and technicians. Recommend improvements for efficiency and scalability
Stay updated with emerging automation technologies and propose improvements
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Industrial Engineering, or related field
Experience (5+ years) in manufacturing or automation engineering, preferably from a regulated industry. Prior work in the Life Science or Biotechnology industry is a plus
Familiarity with Industrial communication protocols (e.g., OPC UA, MQTT, Modbus, Ethernet/IP)
Experience with automation technologies such as PLC programming (Siemens, Allen Bradley, etc.), controls systems, robotics, or scripting (Python, VB, etc.)
Experience with PTC ThingWorx, QAD Redzone, or similar asset modeling software
Maintaining and optimizing network infrastructure, including switches, routers, firewalls, and cabling
Familiarity with Digital Performance Management (DPM), Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), digital analytical tools, and Industry 4.0 concepts
Equipment integration experience using IoT applications, Ignition, OPC UA or PTC Kepware
Experience with cloud-based automation platforms or IoT solutions
Knowledge of databases, APIs, and system integration
Ability to understand business and technical requirements to develop high-level designs/plans and estimate the amount of effort and cost required to deliver
Knowledge of industry standards and regulations related to computerized systems
Strong oral and written communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment and to explain complex terms to non-experts
Effective time management skills demonstrated by the ability to manage multiple projects and meet key milestones within given timelines
Benefits
A choice of national medical and dental plans, and a national vision plan, including health incentive programs
Employee assistance and family support programs, including commuter benefits and tuition reimbursement
At least 120 hours paid time off (PTO), 10 paid holidays annually, paid parental leave (3 weeks for bonding and 8 weeks for caregiver leave), accident and life insurance, and short- and long-term disability in accordance with company policy
Retirement and savings programs, such as our competitive 401(k) U.S. retirement savings plan
Employees’ Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) offers eligible colleagues the opportunity to purchase company stock at a discount
Company
SLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)
SLAS, headquartered in Oak Brook, IL, is a tax exempt organization under section 501 (c) (3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code.
11-50 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageLeadership Team
Vicki Loise
CEO
Amy Wilkinson
Director, Global Events and Corporate Partnerships
Recent News
2025-10-23
News-Medical.Net
2025-10-03
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