At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead automation projects and optimise control systems in a cutting-edge biotech environment.
- Company: Join a leading biotech and chemical engineering organisation in Slough.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team driving the future of life sciences.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on innovative biotech production and R&D processes.
- Qualifications: Experience in automation engineering within regulated manufacturing environments.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 70000 £ per year.
An advanced R&D and manufacturing environment within a biotech & chemical engineering-focused organisation is building out a next-generation automation capability at its Slough facility. They are seeking an Automation Engineer to take ownership of complex control systems across a highly regulated GMP production environment.
This is a hands-on technical role sitting at the core of process automation, supporting the design, build, validation, and optimisation of automated manufacturing systems used in high-value life science production.
What they are working on:
They operate in a highly regulated bioprocessing and pharmaceutical manufacturing environment, supporting the development and production of complex biological and chemical products. Automation sits at the heart of ensuring scalability, compliance, and product quality across R&D and production systems.
Core technical responsibilities:
- Lead automation input into capital engineering and R&D facility projects
- Design, configure, and support process control systems across PLC, DCS, HMI, and SCADA platforms
- Develop and maintain automation solutions for GMP manufacturing environments
- Configure and support systems using Emerson DeltaV (v11+) and Rockwell ControlLogix / FactoryTalk
- Produce and maintain technical documentation including URS, SDS, IQ, OQ, VSR
- Support batch control systems aligned with S88 / S95 standards
- Manage automation change control processes and validation activities (cGMP)
- Troubleshoot and lead root cause analysis on complex control system issues
- Support automation integration across process equipment and utilities (bioreactors, chromatography, filtration systems, CIP/SIP, autoclaves)
- Interface with building systems and industrial control networks (OPC, Profibus, DeviceNet, Foundation Fieldbus, HVAC, WFI systems)
Technical requirements:
- Strong background in automation engineering within regulated manufacturing (pharma / biotech / chemical)
- Hands-on experience with:
- PLC systems (Rockwell ControlLogix preferred)
- DCS platforms (Emerson DeltaV preferred)
- SCADA / HMI systems
- Experience in cGMP environments
- Working knowledge of:
- Batch control standards (S88 / S95)
- Validation frameworks (IQ/OQ/PQ, GAMP)
- Change control, CAPA, and nonconformance processes
- Ability to produce and interpret engineering and validation documentation
- Exposure to pharmaceutical or bioprocess unit operations (e.g. bioreactors, filtration, chromatography)
- Understanding of industrial communication protocols (OPC, Profibus, DeviceNet)
Why this role stands out:
This is a rare opportunity to step into a core automation role within a high-investment R&D manufacturing site, supporting cutting-edge biotech and chemical production systems. The work directly impacts how new products are developed, scaled, and brought into regulated manufacturing environments.
Automation Engineer in London employer: Oakmont Consulting
As an Automation Engineer at our Slough facility, you will be part of a pioneering team in a cutting-edge biotech and chemical engineering environment, where innovation meets compliance. We offer a collaborative work culture that prioritises employee growth through continuous learning and development opportunities, alongside a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package. Join us to make a meaningful impact on the future of life sciences while enjoying the unique advantages of working in a highly regulated and advanced manufacturing setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Automation Engineer in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and showcasing your hands-on experience with automation systems. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on and how they relate to the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on companies that excite you! Use our website to find roles that match your skills and interests, and tailor your approach to each one.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Show your enthusiasm for the role and reiterate why you're a great fit.
We think you need these skills to ace Automation Engineer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Automation Engineer role. Highlight your experience with PLC, DCS, and SCADA systems, and don’t forget to mention any hands-on work in cGMP environments. We want to see how your skills match up with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about automation in biotech and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team. Keep it engaging and relevant to the job description.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In your application, be sure to showcase your technical skills clearly. Mention specific projects or experiences where you’ve designed or supported automation solutions, especially in regulated environments. We love seeing real-world examples!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oakmont Consulting
✨Know Your Automation Systems
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of PLC, DCS, HMI, and SCADA systems. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with Rockwell ControlLogix and Emerson DeltaV, as well as how you've applied these in a GMP environment.
✨Understand the Regulatory Landscape
Familiarise yourself with cGMP regulations and batch control standards like S88/S95. Being able to articulate how you've navigated these frameworks in past roles will show that you're not just technically skilled but also compliant with industry standards.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to dive deep into troubleshooting scenarios and root cause analysis. Think of specific examples where you've resolved complex control system issues and be ready to explain your thought process during those situations.
✨Showcase Your Documentation Skills
Since producing and maintaining technical documentation is key in this role, prepare to discuss your experience with URS, SDS, IQ, OQ, and VSR documentation. Highlight any challenges you've faced and how you overcame them to ensure compliance and quality.
