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Job Title: Automation Technician
Location: Philadelphia, PA
Duration: Contract - 12 months
Pay Range: $100/hr $102/hr (W2)
Job ID: 412112
About BCforward
BCforward is a leading global IT consulting and workforce solutions firm providing services and support to Fortune 500 and government clients. Founded in 1998, BCforward has grown with our customers needs into a full-service business solutions provider. With delivery centers and offices across North America and India, we take pride in building long-term relationships and delivering excellence through innovation, collaboration, and integrity.
Job Description
We are seeking a highly skilled Automation Technician to support field commissioning, testing, and startup of a state-of-the-art pharmaceutical biotechnology facility. The role will be instrumental in deploying, commissioning, and testing critical automated equipment and infrastructure, ensuring integration across Building Automation Systems (BAS), PLCs, EMS, HMIs, SCADA, Process Control Systems (PCS), and IT/OT networks. The position requires hands-on electro-mechanical troubleshooting, precise instrument calibration, code review and troubleshooting, and strict adherence to the Engineering Change Notification (ECN) process and cGMP documentation standards to bring the facility online safely and efficiently.
Interview Process:
- One virtual interview.
- One onsite interview.
Top Skill Areas:
- Practical automation skills: software, electrical systems, physical machinery, and electrical and fluid power systems.
- Project-related skills: cross-functional communication, technical documentation and version control, vendor and parts management.
- Soft skills: systems thinking and composure under pressure.
Responsibilities:
- Deploy, commission, and test automated systems across BAS, PLCs, EMS, HMIs, SCADA, PCS, and IT/OT networks.
- Execute field I/O checkout, loop checks, and functional testing for process equipment, clean utilities, and HVAC systems.
- Support, maintain, and troubleshoot PLC, HMI, SCADA, and BAS platforms.
- Troubleshoot low-voltage wiring, control loops, and field instrumentation using digital multimeters and diagnostic tools.
- Read, interpret, and redline wiring diagrams, P&IDs, and AF&IDs to execute repairs and modifications.
- Access and navigate ladder logic to diagnose faults and support minor logic modifications or process improvements with engineering oversight.
- Troubleshoot and maintain industrial network infrastructure, including Ethernet/IP, PROFINET, and BACnet.
- Perform routine and non-routine instrument calibration with loop calibrators and specialized equipment.
- Document maintenance, troubleshooting, testing, and calibration per ECN, cGMP, and site SOPs; ensure compliance with specifications.
- Organize testing and verification strategies for instrumentation and support functional testing of control, alarm, and safety systems.
- Review P&IDs, loop drawings, wiring diagrams, technical specifications, and calibration records; verify in-field and resolve discrepancies.
- Maintain a tracker of discrepancies and issues and drive them to resolution to protect timelines.
Specific Platforms:
- Rockwell Automation (Allen-Bradley) ControlLogix 5000 PLCs, FactoryTalk.
- Siemens Desigo BAS.
- Vaisala viewLinc EMS.
- Familiarity with Emerson DeltaV.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
- Hands-on automation troubleshooting across PLC, HMI, SCADA, BAS, and industrial networks.
- Proficiency with Ethernet/IP, PROFINET, and BACnet network diagnostics and maintenance.
- Ability to read and redline electrical schematics, P&IDs, and AF&IDs.
- Experience with instrument calibration, loop checks, and verification using multimeters and loop calibrators.
- Knowledge of ECN processes, cGMP standards, and technical documentation practices.
- Strong communication, cross-functional collaboration, and vendor/parts coordination skills.
- Systems thinking, attention to detail, and steady performance under pressure.
- Minimum 5 years of automation, instrumentation, or electrical controls experience, preferably in pharmaceutical, biotech, or medical device environments.
- Associate's degree in Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation, or a related discipline, or equivalent military/professional experience.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience with large capital project execution and commissioning in regulated facilities.
- Familiarity with technical documentation control and version control tools.
Why BCforward?
At BCforward, we believe in advancing lives and careers. When you join our team, you gain access to:
- Competitive compensation and benefits.
- Opportunities for growth with global clients.
- A supportive, inclusive culture that values innovation and people.
- Exposure to cutting-edge technologies and projects.
About Our Commitment
BCforward is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.
Interested? Apply Now!
If this sounds like the right opportunity for you, please apply with your most recent resume.
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