At a Glance
- Tasks: Transform complex automation challenges into reliable production for life-saving medicines.
- Company: AstraZeneca, a pioneering bio-pharmaceutical company with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a diverse team dedicated to innovation and lifelong learning.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare while developing your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in automation and control systems, with strong problem-solving skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 € per year.
Location: Macclesfield, UK
Competitive salary and benefits
At AstraZeneca, we’re redefining what a bio-pharmaceutical company can achieve. Our innovative approach opens up new ways to work, pioneering groundbreaking methods and bringing unexpected teams together. Are you ready to turn complex automation challenges into reliable production that keeps life‑saving medicines flowing to patients? If you are a self-motivated and expert engineer with a background in automation & control looking for your next challenge, this fantastic opportunity to develop within Operations at AstraZeneca could be for you.
As an Automation Engineer, you will strengthen the control systems that power our manufacturing network, using digitalisation and Lean thinking to increase speed, resilience and quality on the expansive Macclesfield campus, where we're driving ambitious redevelopment grounded in Chemistry, Packing, and Complex Parenterals. This is a fixed term role to support an exciting ongoing project, and longer term the role will provide valuable experience which could lead to a future technical or project role.
Responsibilities:
- Project management of small projects including qualification, technical and business improvements and budgetary control
- Delivering authoritative support to automation system faults and to quality incidents related to automated system functionality, leading to Deviation and CAPA ownership
- Whilst maintaining Data Integrity, generation of data from control systems to support digital transformation and data analytics
- Information Technology to Operational Technology interaction & support, including patching and vulnerabilities, planning and handling IT service weekends
- Use of Lean techniques, such as problem solving and Tier reporting, feeding into Total Productive Maintenance
- Delivery of automation system coaching to technical and non-technical staff, including Engineering Technicians and Operating Teams. Mentoring of peers in your areas of expertise, and being a mentee to learn from others.
Essential Skills/Experience:
- Experience of delivering and validating automation and control system projects in a GxP context
- Strong proven understanding of GAMP 5, 21 CFR Part 11, EU GMP Annex 11, Data Integrity (ALCOA+)
- Ability to author and review high-quality validation documentation independently.
- Strong partner management and interpersonal skills.
- Diligent, structured, and proficient in working within a highly regulated environment
- Minimum HND/HNC in a related subject area and meaningful work experience in a similar role or regulated industry
Desirable Skills/Experience:
- Degree or equivalent experience within a relevant field and membership of relevant institution with professional qualifications
- Familiarity with PLC/SCADA platforms (e.g. Siemens, COPA Zenon).
- Exposure to MES or ERP interfaces related to packaging operations.
- Knowledge of Agile or risk-based validation approaches.
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing or continuous improvement initiatives
- Experience with serialisation and aggregation systems (e.g. Systech)
- ISA/IEC 62443 Industrial Cybersecurity Qualification
- Understanding of GAMP5 and the impact assessment of Category 1, 3, 4, 5 changes
- Understand IT solutions to vulnerabilities e.g. patching and implement these on OT systems with no production or GMP impact.
When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work five days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.
At AstraZeneca, we 're dedicated to being a Great Place to Work. Where you are empowered to push the boundaries of science and unleash your entrepreneurial spirit. There’s no better place to make a difference to medicine, patients and society. An inclusive culture that champions diversity and collaboration. Always committed to lifelong learning, growth and development.
Interested? Come and join our journey!
Date Posted: 13-May-2026
Closing Date: 27-May-2026
Our mission is to build an inclusive and equitable environment. We want people to feel they belong at AstraZeneca and Alexion, starting with our recruitment process. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics. We offer reasonable adjustments/accommodations to help all candidates to perform at their best. If you have a need for any adjustments/accommodations, please complete the section in the application form.
Automation/Process Control Engineer in Macclesfield employer: AstraZeneca
At AstraZeneca, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. Located in Macclesfield, our expansive campus is at the forefront of bio-pharmaceutical advancements, providing employees with unique opportunities for professional growth and development in a supportive environment. With a commitment to diversity, lifelong learning, and a flexible approach to work, we empower our team members to make a meaningful impact on patients' lives through their contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Automation/Process Control Engineer in Macclesfield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at AstraZeneca on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into AstraZeneca's projects and values. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely excited about their mission and how you can contribute to it.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your technical skills and be ready to discuss specific automation challenges you've tackled. They’ll want to see how you think on your feet, so brush up on those problem-solving techniques!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at AstraZeneca.
We think you need these skills to ace Automation/Process Control Engineer in Macclesfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Automation/Process Control Engineer role. Highlight your relevant experience in automation and control systems, especially in a GxP context, to show us you’re the perfect fit!
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t just list your skills; demonstrate them! Use specific examples from your past work that align with the responsibilities mentioned in the job description. This helps us see how you can contribute to our team.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured documents that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role, and make sure to proofread for any typos or errors.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at AstraZeneca
✨Know Your Automation Basics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of automation and control systems, especially in a GxP context. Familiarise yourself with GAMP 5 and 21 CFR Part 11, as these are crucial for the role. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the position.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've used Lean techniques or problem-solving methods in past projects. AstraZeneca values innovative thinking, so be ready to share specific instances where you improved processes or resolved complex issues. This will demonstrate your ability to contribute to their ambitious goals.
✨Understand Their Culture
Research AstraZeneca's commitment to diversity, collaboration, and lifelong learning. Be prepared to discuss how you align with these values and how you can contribute to their inclusive environment. Showing that you fit into their culture can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, team dynamics, and ongoing projects at AstraZeneca. This not only shows your interest but also gives you a chance to assess if the company is the right fit for you. Asking about their approach to digital transformation could be particularly relevant.
