Job Introduction
Position: DCS Automation Engineer
Location: Cramlington
Pharmaron is a global CRO helping pharma and biotech companies bring new therapies to life. With over 25,000 employees worldwide across 23 locations in the US, UK and China, we support drug discovery through to manufacturing with fully integrated, high-quality services.
We’re proud of the impact we make and just last year, we supported over 780 discovery projects, 1,000+ CMC programmes, and 1,000+ clinical trials across all phases. Our teams are involved in everything from small molecules to biologics and gene therapies, and we work with more than 3,000 global customers. To learn more, visit www.pharmaron.com.
About the Role
Pharmaron is looking to recruit a DCS Automation Engineer to maintain and improve existing process control systems (DCS) to ensure full compliance with HSE and MHRA requirements (CSV, data integrity). And to provide process control input to New Product Introduction Projects and develop process control strategies, primarily exploiting DCS, to meet safety, quality and operability requirements and to address issues of cyber security as related to process control systems
Key Responsibilities
- Using process control and automation skills and knowledge implement the site process control strategy and upgrade of existing systems to bring them in line with current standards
- Provide ongoing support for the site process control (e.g. system access, backup and restore, audit trail procedures etc.)
- Provide automation expertise and input into new product introduction projects.
- Support project execution by reconfiguring the DCS, building new recipes etc.
- Provide support during batch manufacturing (some out of hours as required.)
- Deliver training to manufacturing personnel to allow them to operate the DCS at their assigned level.
- Produce training packages to allow the training to be done in a structured manner
- Cultivate and maintain excellent working relationships with DCS suppliers and contractors with a view to ensuring best possible service and pricing for required materials and works.
Candidate Profile
Essential:
- Technical degree, or equivalent experience in technical or managerial roles
- Experience in a range of process control systems, in particular knowledge of those currently on site (Foxboro I/A series [Primary] and Emerson Delta V [Secondary])
- Experience of developing process automation and knowledge of Batch Engine ISA S88 standards
- Understanding of computer systems validation and GAMP categorization to support CSV.
- Experience of developing and implementing a process control strategy from a process description
Desirable:
- Experience of developing solutions within the chemical industry, preferably in a fast turnaround environment
- Good understanding of CSV, use of RTM, IQ, OQ, PQ etc. as applied to process control system
- Understanding of HAZOP and implications for process control
Why Pharmaron?
Collaborative Culture:
Thrive in a supportive and inclusive environment where teamwork, learning and innovation are at the core of what we do.
Impactful Work:
What you do here contributes directly to the development of life‑changing medicines.
Career Growth:
We invest in your development offering continuous learning, technical training and opportunities to grow within a fast‑expanding global organisation.
People‑Centric Values:
Our cultural values, Employees Number One and Clients Centered, guide everything we do and set us apart in the industry.
How to Apply:
Ready to seize this incredible opportunity? Join us at Pharmaron and be part of a dynamic team driving innovation and excellence in biopharmaceutical research and development. Apply online today!