Automation Project Engineer

About the role

Calibre Life Science is looking for an experienced Automation Project Engineer to lead the design and technical delivery of automation systems for pharmaceutical and biotechnology facilities. The role covers the full lifecycle from concept through detailed design, procurement, commissioning, and validation, with responsibility for ensuring compliance with GMP and related standards.

Key responsibilities

• Develop control philosophies for continuous and batch processes.
• Select and specify control systems (PLC, HMI, SCADA, DCS) and associated instrumentation.
• Create IO schedules, instrument schedules, and control system network architectures.
• Design electrical reticulation, layout, and data capture solutions.
• Prepare scope of work, specifications, and bills of quantities.
• Collaborate with process and mechanical design teams on P&ID and equipment layout.
• Manage procurement, tendering, purchase orders, and supplier liaison.
• Control project cost schedule and evaluate supplier invoices.
• Oversee construction and commissioning activities, including site visits and progress monitoring.
• Prepare and supervise validation protocols (RA, IA, IQ, OQ, FAT).

Required profile

• Extensive experience in pharmaceutical and biotech automation system design.
• Strong knowledge of GMP, GEP, and other regulatory requirements.
• Proven technical leadership and ability to work across multidisciplinary teams.
• Willingness to travel within South Africa for project execution.

Required skills

• PLC, HMI, SCADA, DCS expertise
• Instrumentation specification and integration
• Control system network architecture design
• Electrical reticulation and layout design
• Validation protocol development (RA, IA, IQ, OQ, FAT)
• P&ID development and review
• Procurement, tender evaluation, and cost control
• Construction management and commissioning supervision