Automation Technical Manager

Today, Lonza is a global leader in life sciences operating across five continents. While we work in science, there’s no magic formula to how we do it. Our greatest scientific solution is talented people working together, devising ideas that help businesses to help people. In exchange, we let our people own their careers. Their ideas, big and small, genuinely improve the world. And that’s the kind of work we want to be part of.

As a global leader in life sciences, Lonza is on an ambitious journey of growth and innovation. We are excited to announce a new opportunity for an Automation Technical Manager in Vacaville, CA. This role is crucial in driving the technical design, development, and rollout of automation solutions for large capital projects. You will work with cross-functional teams, including Manufacturing, MSAT, Quality Assurance, and external partners, to successfully implement world-class automation systems.

Key responsibilities:

1. Design, develop, and deliver automation solutions for CAPEX projects, ensuring flawless scope, cost, and schedule management.
2. Implement and improve the value of Lonza's existing automation standards and practices.
3. Coordinate software documentation efforts and assist in project schedule development, ensuring timely completion of software, hardware, and validation tasks.
4. Manage technical staff in software configuration, coding, hardware specification, and control panel design, preferably using Rockwell or Honeywell systems.
5. Supervise external engineering contractors and vendors throughout the project lifecycle.
6. Support automation during FATs and SATs, ensuring software consistency and revision control.
7. Troubleshoot startup activities and ensure accurate, complete Engineering Turnover Packages.
8. Provide routine project management updates and technical input for equipment procurement and vendor selection.
9. Promote strategic technical developments in the Pharma/biotech industry.

Key requirements:

1. Bachelor's Degree in Bioengineering or equivalent experience.
2. Master’s degree in science or equivalent experience preferred.
3. Proven experience in biopharmaceutical facility design and operation with strong understanding of commercial mammalian cell culture processing and aseptic filling.
4. Expertise in control systems (PLC, DCS, Loop controllers) and project management.
5. Familiarity with ASME Bioprocess Equipment standards, CIP, and SIP design.
6. Experience with large-scale PCS, SCADA/PLC systems, historians (preferably OSIsoft PI), and MES integration with ERP systems (preferably SAP).
7. Knowledge of PCS, MES network architecture, and system hardware design.

The full-time base annual salary for this position is anticipated to range between $184,500-$215,250. Compensation for the role will depend on a number of factors, including the successful candidate’s qualifications, skills, competencies, experience, and job-related knowledge. Full-time employees receive a comprehensive benefits package including performance-related bonus, medical and dental coverage, 401k plan, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance, an employee assistance program, paid time off (PTO), and more.

Lonza is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a qualified individual with disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.