Short Description
Automation Engineer (OPC UA / SCADA / System Integration)
The Automation Engineer plays a key role in deploying, integrating, and maintaining software systems that streamline production processes and analytical equipment. Acting as a bridge between operational technology (OT)-which includes vendor-specific instrument APIs and SDKs-and information technology (IT), such as HMIs, this position leverages technologies like OPC UA for secure data exchange and SCADA for real-time monitoring of bioprocessing parameters and product quality. The position also involves integrating diverse automation components and deploying AI/ML models for predictive feedback control within DCS environments. By doing so, you will contribute significantly to advancing biomanufacturing platforms of-the- future and supporting Industry 4.0 initiatives.
Long Description
Automation Engineer (OPC UA / SCADA / System Integration)
The Automation Engineer plays a key role in deploying, integrating, and maintaining software systems that streamline production processes and analytical equipment. Acting as a bridge between operational technology (OT)-which includes vendor-specific instrument APIs and SDKs-and information technology (IT), such as HMIs, this position leverages technologies like OPC UA for secure data exchange and SCADA for real-time monitoring of bioprocessing parameters and product quality. The position also involves integrating diverse automation components and deploying AI/ML models for predictive feedback control within DCS environments. By doing so, you will contribute significantly to advancing biomanufacturing platforms of-the- future and supporting Industry 4.0 initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
1. SCADA Deployment & Management
• Deploy, configure, and maintain SCADA systems such as Ignition, WinCC, SIPAT, and Lucullus to ensure optimal operation and usability
• Enhance and integrate intuitive HMI screens, alarm management systems, historical trending, and reporting dashboards.
• Ensure SCADA system high availability, data integrity, and tracability, 21 CFR Part 11 compliance.
2. OPC UA Implementation
• Architect and deploy OPC UA server/client architectures for secure, cross-platform data communication.
• Configure OPC UA namespaces, nodes, and method calls to expose PLC and field device data to MES, DCS, ERP, or cloud systems.
• Resolve OPC UA connectivity issues, manage certificates, troubleshoot firewalls, and address data type mismatches to ensure reliable system performance
3. System Integration
• Integrate PLCs (Siemens, Rockwell, Emerson), RTUs, IO, drives, and IoT sensors into unified automation solutions.
• Develop middleware and scripting (Python, C#, JavaScript) to transform, map, and route data between OT and IT systems (e.g., databases, MQTT brokers, Vendor specific, REST APIs, SQL).
• Collaborate with IT/OT teams to implement network segmentation and industrial security best practices.
• Support brownfield integration projects retrofitting legacy systems with OPC UA gateways, and API/SDK provided from instrument vendors.
Required Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Hands-on experience in industrial automation, with direct focus on SCADA and OPC UA.
Expected Technical Skills
• OPC UA: Experience with OPC UA client/server configuration. Familiarity with OPC UA PubSub is a plus.
• SCADA Platforms: Proficiency in at least one major SCADA (e.g., Ignition, WinCC). Ignition certification is highly desirable.
• System Integration: Ability to integrate PLCs across multiple vendors; experience with industrial protocols (Modbus TCP/RTU, Profinet, EtherNet/IP, MQTT, REST).
• Programming/Scripting: Competency in Python, C#, or VBA for data bridging, API calls, or SCADA scripting.
• Networking: Understanding of TCP/IP, switches, firewalls, NAT, VLANs, and industrial network security principles.
• Databases: Experience with SQL Server, PostgreSQL, or InfluxDB for SCADA historian and reporting.
Soft Skills
• Strong analytical problem-solving in complex multi-system environments.