Automation Area Lead (DeltaV)

Engagement Details Location:

Remote initially with future on-site presence required in

Lebanon, Indiana Positions Available:

1

Duration:

12 months with anticipated extensions

Start Date:

ASAP Schedule:

40hrs/week with additional hours anticipated during peak execution phases

Interviews:

ASAP Pay Rate:

$140-$165/hr 1099 | $100-$125/hr W2 + Per Diem The Opportunity Planet Pharma is supporting a major pharmaceutical manufacturing expansion seeking an Automation Area Lead to provide ownership of DeltaV process automation systems for a defined manufacturing area. This role will work closely with process engineering, automation, manufacturing, quality, and commissioning teams to ensure automation systems are designed, configured, tested, and deployed successfully. This is a project-focused automation leadership role responsible for driving automation strategy and software development from early design through startup and operational readiness. The successful candidate will combine strong DeltaV expertise with the ability to lead multidisciplinary discussions and coordinate activities across multiple stakeholders. What You'll Own Automation Design & Development Lead automation scope for assigned manufacturing systems and process areas Develop and review functional specifications, control strategies, and automation requirements Translate process narratives, PFDs, and P&IDs into automation system functionality Define DeltaV control modules, equipment modules, alarms, interlocks, phases, recipes, and procedural logic Support MES integration and data flow requirements between manufacturing systems Technical Coordination Serve as the primary automation lead for assigned process areas Coordinate with process, manufacturing, validation, and quality stakeholders Support design reviews, control strategy reviews, and automation risk assessments Provide technical direction during software development and testing activities Review and respond to automation-related technical queries Testing & Startup Support Support preparation and execution of automation test protocols Participate in FAT, SAT, commissioning, and startup activities Identify and resolve software issues, deficiencies, and operational risks Support issue tracking and change management throughout project execution Provide operational readiness support through system handover What We're Looking For Bachelor's degree in Engineering or equivalent industry experience 8+ years of pharmaceutical automation experience Strong DeltaV Batch and DeltaV DCS experience Experience developing S88-compliant automation strategies and batch processes Ability to derive automation requirements from process documentation and P&IDs Knowledge of GMP regulations, computer system validation, and pharmaceutical manufacturing operations Strong communication and stakeholder management skills Experience supporting automation projects from design through startup Nice to Have API or bulk pharmaceutical manufacturing experience MES integration experience Experience supporting large greenfield pharmaceutical projects Exposure to commissioning and qualification activities