MVPLC Automation Area Lead

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.

We are currently seeking a PLC Automation Area Lead who will be responsible for the control system solution for all PLC based equipment in a Hybrid project, such as Lyophilizers, ensuring the solution is aligned with the overall program automation philosophy, standards and user requirements. This role will also be responsible for reverse engineering PLC OEM solutions so that the solution can be developed in Delta

V. The area lead will work in conjunction with the other members of the Project Team, including the Automation Project Manager, Automation Technical Lead, Automation Area Leads, Process Engineers, Tech Services/Manufacturing Science Representatives, Quality Engineers, and Operations.

• Technical ownership for all PLC based equipment such as Lyophilizers in the Hybrid project
• Reverse engineer PLC OEM solutions so that the solution can be developed in DeltaV
• Define the S88 software structure and list for the area
• Develop draft function design specifications for the area
• Work with system integrators to finalize the functional specifications
• Participate in P& control strategy reviews
• Working closely with the Project Technical Lead and System Integrator to successfully deliver the project on schedule and budget
• Collaborate with Program technical offices to ensure the automation solution is aligned with the overall program automation philosophy and standards
• Ensure consistency of the automation deliverables in the area (requirements, functional specifications, control strategies, phases, and recipes, etc.)
• Assist in defining the software components that need to be created or modified
• Communicate progress, issues, and needs to automation technical lead for the project
• Provide input, review, and approve functional requirements and specifications
• Develop and partner with the selected System Integrator to create computer system validation deliverables (alarm rationalization, system overview, source code reviews, testing, etc.).
• Secure vendor documents for skidded equipment to integrate with validation deliverables.
• Responding to system integrator technical queries
• Identification of any remediation effort required on process control software
• Assist the System Integrator in the implementation of the system architecture
• Create items in the issue tracker as issues arise after the software acceptance
• Identify and analyze risks of technical nature particular to the area and planning responses
• Maintain compliance with training requirements

• 8+ years working Automation experience in the Pharmaceutical Industry (preferable in API/bulk manufacturing)
• Previous Pharmaceutical Automation Large Project/Program experience/expertise
• 5+ years’ experience in Allen-Bradley PLCs
• Previous experience with Lyophilizers
• Preferable 3+ years’ experience with DeltaV
• Exceptional teamwork abilities
• Strong knowledge of GMP’s, regulatory requirements and computer system validation principles
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for both technical and non-technical audiences
• Strong knowledge of GMP’s, regulatory requirements and computer system validation principles
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for both technical and non-technical audiences.

• Hybrid - candidates can be based anywhere in the United States
• Travel will involve a minimum 1 week a month in Indiana during the basic/detailed design phase of the project, and full time on site during the Commissioning phase of the project

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 an opportunity to make a meaningful difference by shaping the future of healthcare and technology alongside a purpose-driven, supportive team.

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.