Lead Automation Engineer

Pinnaql is a trusted consulting partner to regulated life sciences companies, providing deep technical, validation, and quality expertise across every stage of the product lifecycle. We partner with pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical device organizations to navigate complexity, accelerate project timelines, and maintain a strong state of compliance and audit readiness.

Validation and Engineering Group, a Pinnaql company, is seeking a Lead Automation Engineer with Rockwell expertise to support an exciting capital project in Rockville, MD.

Role Summary:
The Lead Automation Engineer is responsible for the configuration, troubleshooting, and lifecycle support of Rockwell-based PLC, DCS, and HMI systems. This role ensures system uptime, manages change control, and leads automation commissioning and optimization activities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Implement and troubleshoot PLC/DCS/HMI systems (Rockwell Studio 5000, ControlLogix, FTView SE).
• Perform change control, configuration management, and validation documentation.
• Support automation network integration and data collection for the Energy Management System (EMS).
• Coordinate commissioning and testing of automation changes.
• Ensure compliance with GMP, safety, and cybersecurity standards.
• Provide technical leadership to other automation resources and act as the main escalation point for Critical/High incidents.
  

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Control, or Automation Engineering.
• 7 years of experience in Rockwell systems (ControlLogix, FTView SE, FactoryTalk Historian) in an FDA regulated industry.
• Strong knowledge of industrial Ethernet, OPC, and data integration.
• GMP/validated system experience preferred.
• Excellent documentation and communication skills.
• Candidates must be authorized to work for any employer in the Unitesd States without visa sponsorship.
  

At Pinnaql, people always come first. We believe that when you're empowered to do your best work, bold ideas thrive and real progress happens. This isn't just a job; it's your opportunity to make a meaningful difference. You'll help shape the future of healthcare and technology, working alongside a purpose-driven team that's as ambitious as it is supportive. Excited to build something meaningful together? We look forward to hearing from you!

Pinnaql is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability status.