At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead automation projects and optimise control systems in a cutting-edge biotech environment.
- Company: Innovative biotech and chemical engineering organisation in Slough.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £70,000 plus benefits and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Hands-on role with exposure to advanced technologies and processes.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of biotech and chemical production.
- 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 Slough 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 Slough
✨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 put in a good word for you.
✨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 and wait! Follow up on your applications after a week or so. A quick email can show your enthusiasm and keep you on their radar.
✨Tip Number 4
Check out our website for the latest job openings and apply directly. We’re always looking for talented individuals like you to join our team and make an impact in the automation field!
We think you need these skills to ace Automation Engineer in Slough
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, as well as any hands-on work in cGMP environments. We want to see how your skills match 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:Don’t forget to showcase your technical skills in your application. 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:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to submit all your documents in one go. Plus, it helps us keep track of your application!
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 platforms. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with Rockwell ControlLogix and Emerson DeltaV, as well as how you've applied these in a cGMP environment.
✨Understand the Regulatory Landscape
Familiarise yourself with batch control standards like S88/S95 and validation frameworks such as IQ/OQ/PQ. Being able to articulate your understanding of these processes will show that you’re not just technically savvy but also compliant with industry regulations.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to dive deep into troubleshooting scenarios and root cause analysis. Think of specific examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed complex control system issues, and be ready to explain your thought process.
✨Showcase Your Documentation Skills
Since producing and maintaining technical documentation is key in this role, prepare to discuss how you’ve created URS, SDS, and other relevant documents. Highlight any experience you have with change control processes and how you ensure compliance in your documentation.
