Co-Op Automation Engineer

Location: Wilson, NC 
Department: Automation / Execution Systems 
Reports To: Site Automation Lead or Automation Engineering Manager 
Position Type: Full-Time Co-op (6-Month Assignment) 

Position Summary 

The Automation Engineering Co-op will support the Site Automation organization in the implementation, maintenance, validation, and continuous improvement of manufacturing automation systems within a state-of-the-art, green field, biopharmaceutical manufacturing facility. The co-op will gain hands-on experience with industrial automation platforms, manufacturing execution systems, computerized systems validation, digital manufacturing technologies, and GMP-regulated processes. 

This role provides a unique opportunity to work alongside automation engineers, manufacturing, quality, engineering, and IT teams while contributing to projects that support reliable, compliant, and efficient production operations. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Support automation engineers in maintaining and improving manufacturing automation systems. 

• Assist with the development and execution of computerized system validation (CSV) documentation, including test scripts, traceability matrices, and validation reports. 

• Participate in Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), and system commissioning activities. 

• Assist with troubleshooting and resolving issues related to automation systems and system integrations. 

• Support data collection, reporting, and analysis activities using automation and manufacturing data platforms. 

• Participate in change management activities and documentation updates in accordance with GMP requirements. 

• Assist in the creation and maintenance of technical documentation, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and work instructions. 

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, Maintenance, and IT. 

• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on reliability, efficiency, and digital transformation. 

• Learn and apply industry standards including ISA-88, ISA-95, GAMP 5, and applicable GMP regulations. 

Learning Opportunities 

The co-op may gain exposure to: 

• Emerson DeltaV Distributed Control System (DCS) 

• PAS-X Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) 

• Honeywell Building Automation Systems (BAS) 

• Siemens and Rockwell PLC and SCADA technologies 

• OSI PI Historian and data analytics platforms 

• Computerized System Validation (CSV) 

• Large Molecule Drug Substances Pharmaceutical manufacturing processes 

• Industrial automation networks and cybersecurity fundamentals 

• Digital manufacturing and Industry 4.0 initiatives 

Qualifications 

Education: 

• Currently pursuing a BS or MS degree in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biology, Biochemistry, or a related technical field.

• Preferred fields include Information Management, Information Technology, Computer Engineering, Management Information Systems, Computer Science, Software Engineering / Development, Data Science, Cybersecurity. 

• Have a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or higher, which is reflective of all college coursework. 

 
Experience and Skills: 
Required: 

• Available to work full-time (40 hrs./week) with reliable transportation to and from site 

• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail. 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint). 

• Excellent organizational and time management skills. 

• Strong verbal and written communication skills. 

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team. 

Preferred: 

• Basic understanding of large molecule drug manufacturing processes is a plus. 

• Strong problem solving and communication skills. 

• Demonstrated leadership and/or participation in campus programs and/or community service activities.  

• Experience working in a cGMP environment is preferred.