Automation Engineering Technician (Fort Worth, TX)

Life Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living. 

Position Overview

The Automation Engineering Technician supports the operation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of automated systems used in pharmaceutical manufacturing. This role works closely with engineering, maintenance, production, and quality teams to ensure compliance with cGMP requirements while optimizing equipment performance, reducing downtime, and supporting validated equipment and processes.

Automation & Controls Support

• Install, maintain, and troubleshoot automation and process control systems including PLCs, HMIs, Metasys, Rees, sensors, and VFDs.
• Support troubleshooting of equipment used in upstream, downstream, fill‑finish, packaging, utilities, and/or environmental monitoring systems.
• Perform authorized modifications to PLC/HMI logic while adhering to change control procedures.
• Execute preventative and predictive maintenance for automation components in accordance with validated conditions and SOPs.
• Assist with maintaining system backups, revision control, and control system environments.

Technical & Operational Support

• Support commissioning, qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ), and validation activities for automated equipment.
• Assist in non-conformances (NCs) deviations, investigations, and root cause analyses for automation‑related events; implement CAPAs as directed.
• Document all work clearly and accurately in compliance with cGMP requirements, including quality records and work orders.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to ensure equipment operates within validated parameters and meets regulatory expectations.

Project & Continuous Improvement

• Support automation and digitalization projects including system upgrades, new equipment integration, and data integrity initiatives.
• Participate in FAT/SAT execution and review vendor documentation for compliance with 21 CFR Part 11 and industry standards.
• Recommend improvements to optimize reliability, reduce downtime, and support lean/continuous improvement efforts.
• Assist in developing and revising SOPs, technical manuals, and training materials for automated systems.

Quality, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure all automation activities comply with cGMP, FDA, and other applicable regulatory requirements.
• Follow data integrity principles (ALCOA+) when recording, storing, and maintaining electronic and paper records.
• Adhere to site safety policies, including LOTO, electrical safety, PPE requirements, and aseptic/clean room procedures where applicable.
• Support implementation and maintenance of safety systems such as interlocks, emergency‑stop circuits, and machine guarding.

What will you need to be successful?

Required

• Hands‑on experience with PLCs (Allen-Bradley preferred), HMIs, and industrial controls.
• Ability to read/interpret electrical schematics, ladder logic, P&IDs, and control diagrams.
• Knowledge of cGMP regulations and good documentation practices (GDP).
• Strong troubleshooting skills with automation, mechanical, and electrical systems.

Preferred

• Associate degree in Automation, Electrical Technology, Mechatronics, Industrial Maintenance, or equivalent technical field.
• Experience in pharmaceutical, biotech, or other regulated GMP environments.
• Familiarity with batch control systems (e.g., DeltaV, FactoryTalk Batch) and electronic records compliance (21 CFR Part 11).
• Experience with vision inspection and aseptic processing equipment.
• Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus, OPC).
• Understanding of HVAC/BMS/BAS systems, utilities (WFI, clean steam), or environmental monitoring systems.

Core Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities
• Excellent documentation discipline
• Collaboration and communication across cross‑functional teams
• Ability to work in a regulated, compliance‑driven environment
• Continuous improvement and learning mindset

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in clean rooms, controlled environments, and manufacturing areas.
• Ability to climb ladders, access elevated platforms, kneel, stoop, and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to wear required PPE including gowning for classified areas.

Work Schedule

• Full‑time role; may require off‑shift support, on‑call rotations, weekends, or overtime to support critical production operations.

You Unlimited. We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our strongest investments are in our people and the patients we serve.    

• Inclusion and Belonging- Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving on Inclusion and Belonging, Learn more about Employee Inclusion Groups on our website ( https://www.smith-nephew.com/).

• Your Future: 401k Matching Program, 401k Plus Program, Discounted Stock Options, Tuition Reimbursement  

• Work/Life Balance: Flexible Personal/Vacation Time Off, Paid Holidays, Flex Holidays, Paid Community Service Day  

• Your Wellbeing: Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account (Employer Contribution of $500+ annually), Employee Assistance Program, Parental Leave, Fertility and Adoption Assistance Program 

• Training: Hands-On, Team-Customized, Mentorship  

• Extra Perks: Discounts on fitness clubs, travel and more!  

Smith+Nephew provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.