Automation Technician

Charles City

Full time

JR00013010

 

Position Summary:

Support the Charles City site manufacture quality animal vaccines through innovative automation systems.  Continue to drive quality, safety and improved throughput with modernized systems / equipment and data collection systems.  Help develop the facility of the future with life-cycle management of automated systems and data driven decisions.

 

Position Responsibilities:

  • Support Manufacturing, Environmental and Quality initiatives through automation and technology:
  • Troubleshooting existing systems to determine root cause failure,
  • Developing new systems to innovate and modernize existing or new manufacturing processes,
  • Recognizing issues during routine observations and developing a solution to resolve the issue.
  • Develop and review / approve specifications for automated systems.  This may include simple PLC standalone systems or more complex distributed control / management systems.
  • Maintain and monitor performance of multiple Process, Equipment and Historical data systems.
  • Provide life-cycle management of assigned Process, Equipment and Historical data systems.
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable Zoetis Standard Operating Procedures and regulatory guidance (i.e. CFR21 Part 11, Good Automation Practices, etc..) throughout the life of the system.
  • Maintain knowledge of updated and new automation technologies and industry practices.  Be capable of developing a site strategy recommending adopting or deploying as necessary to enhance automation effectiveness and ensure continued viability of installed infrastructure.
  • Support and maintain a safe work environment.
  • Support capital projects as requested.
  • Obtain buy-in from key stakeholders and regularly engage colleagues for feedback.
  • Participate in all phases of a project from initiation to hand-over and continued long-term support.
  • Support training site colleagues on automated systems as needed to ensure smooth hand-over and successful operations.

 

Education and Experience:

  • Associates degree / BA/BS with 2-4 years of experience OR Minimum of 8 years relevant experience.
  • Experience with electronic instrumentation, programmable controllers/computers and process control in a manufacturing environment.
  • Good interpersonal, communication skills, and working in a team-based environment are essential for success in this position.
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft office and project management tools (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, and Project) required.
  • Ability to understand and update schematics and automation design specifications.
  • Demonstrated commitment to values-based leadership and work practices and achieving objectives in a manner consistent with the Zoetis values and leader behaviors.
  • Proficient in English, both oral and written, with sound technical writing skills.
  • Additional experience with computer and automation systems including distributed control systems, desktop computers and servers, Windows operating systems, the UNIX operating system, and networking protocols is highly desired.
  • Systems supported may include one or more of the following:
  • Allen-Bradley
  • EcoStruxure-SCADA
  • Honeywell
  • Siemens
  • Omron
  • BacNet MS/TP & BacNet/IP
  • Tridium Niagara Framework
  • Workplace Tech
  • Rockwell control systems

 

Physical Requirements:

  • Must be able to walk or stand for long periods of time.
  • Must be able to reach above shoulder level, bend/stoop, kneel, push/pull, and handle/grip frequently.
  • Must be able to work scheduled 40 hours with the ability to work overtime as needed.
  • Must be comfortable working in varying temperatures
  • Frequent lifting and carrying of 5 to 50 lbs.
  • Regular reaching, bending, stooping, and twisting
  • Repetitive motion and substantial movement of the wrists, hands, and/or fingers
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee occasionally works in environments with extreme temperature (hot /cold) & humidity, with limited lighting and in crowded spaces.  The noise of these work environments are typical office noises.