Automation Senior Engineer II

Job Description

Role Summary

The Automation Engineer supports management and implementation of control systems for equipment in a GMP manufacturing facility. This role supports equipment upgrades, troubleshooting, lifecycle planning, and compliant system operation as well as configuration for network integration and data historian management. The engineer provides day-to-day technical direction to contractors and works closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, Quality, Validation, and vendors.

Key Responsibilities

Support automation upgrades and modifications for data integrity and reliability improvements for manufacturing equipment.

Configure, troubleshoot, test, and maintain PLCs, HMIs, industrial networks, and related automation components.

Maintain OT asset inventories, software versions, patching records, and equipment lifecycle plans.

Support vulnerability assessments, backup and recovery, change control, commissioning, and validation activities.

Integrate the equipment systems into the manufacturing network through configuration of interface technologies, such as NATR devices and Kepware.

Configure and manage the site data historian.

Prepare and maintain automation documentation, including configuration records, SOPs, work instructions, and test records.

Coordinate assigned contractor activities and provide technical direction for automation work.

Escalate technical, quality, compliance, and schedule risks to engineering leadership.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Automation, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field.

Minimum of 8 years of experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, or manufacturing automation.

Experience with PLC- and HMI-based control systems in a manufacturing environment.

Familiarity with GAMP, 21 CFR Part 11 requirements, validation, change control, and controlled documentation practices.

Strong troubleshooting, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Technical Skills Required

Siemens and/or Allen-Bradley PLCs and HMI applications

Industrial networking and control-system integration

Kepware drivers and connectors

AVEVA PI Historian

Automation testing, commissioning, and validation documentation

OT asset management, patching, and software-version control

At Vertex, we embrace continuous learning and encourage employees to stay informed on advances in AI, technology, automation, and industry trends. We seek talent who bring an external perspective, demonstrate curiosity and sound judgment, and thoughtfully adopt new capabilities that improve decision-making, drive innovation, increase efficiency, and help deliver better outcomes for patients.

Pay Range:

$124,000 - $186,000

Disclosure Statement:

The range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the base salary pay range for this job at the time of posting. This role is eligible for an annual bonus and annual equity awards. Some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements. Actual base salary pay will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, experience, and other job-related factors permitted by law.

At Vertex, our Total Rewards offerings also include inclusive market-leading benefits to meet our employees wherever they are in their career, financial, family and wellbeing journey while providing flexibility and resources to support their growth and aspirations.  From medical, dental and vision benefits to generous paid time off (including a week-long company shutdown in the Summer and the Winter), educational assistance programs including student loan repayment, a generous commuting subsidy, matching charitable donations, 401(k) and so much more.

Flex Designation:

On-Site Designated

Flex Eligibility Status:

In this On-Site designated role, you will work five days per week on-site with ad hoc flexibility.

Note: The Flex status for this position is subject to Vertex’s Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time.

#LI-Onsite

Company Information

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation.

Vertex is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vertex is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. Vertex will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.

Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should make a request to the recruiter or hiring manager, or contact Talent Acquisition at ApplicationAssistance@vrtx.com