Summary

The Automation Engineering Co-op will support the Site Automation organization in the implementation, maintenance, validation, and continuous improvement of manufacturing automation systems within a state-of-the-art, green field, biopharmaceutical manufacturing facility. The co-op will gain hands-on experience with industrial automation platforms, manufacturing execution systems, computerized systems validation, digital manufacturing technologies, and GMP-regulated processes. This role provides a unique opportunity to work alongside automation engineers, manufacturing, quality, engineering, and IT teams while contributing to projects that support reliable, compliant, and efficient production operations.

Job description

Position Summary

The Automation Engineering Co-op will support the Site Automation organization in the implementation, maintenance, validation, and continuous improvement of manufacturing automation systems within a state-of-the-art, green field, biopharmaceutical manufacturing facility. The co-op will gain hands-on experience with industrial automation platforms, manufacturing execution systems, computerized systems validation, digital manufacturing technologies, and GMP-regulated processes. This role provides a unique opportunity to work alongside automation engineers, manufacturing, quality, engineering, and IT teams while contributing to projects that support reliable, compliant, and efficient production operations.

Key Responsibilities

Support automation engineers in maintaining and improving manufacturing automation systems.
Assist with the development and execution of computerized system validation (CSV) documentation, including test scripts, traceability matrices, and validation reports.
Participate in Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), and system commissioning activities.
Assist with troubleshooting and resolving issues related to automation systems and system integrations.
Support data collection, reporting, and analysis activities using automation and manufacturing data platforms.
Participate in change management activities and documentation updates in accordance with GMP requirements.
Assist in the creation and maintenance of technical documentation, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and work instructions.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, Maintenance, and IT.
Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on reliability, efficiency, and digital transformation.
Learn and apply industry standards including ISA-88, ISA-95, GAMP 5, and applicable GMP regulations.

Learning Opportunities

The co-op may gain exposure to: Emerson DeltaV Distributed Control System (DCS), PAS-X Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), Honeywell Building Automation Systems (BAS), Siemens and Rockwell PLC and SCADA technologies, OSI PI Historian and data analytics platforms, Computerized System Validation (CSV), Large Molecule Drug Substances, Pharmaceutical manufacturing processes, Industrial automation networks and cybersecurity fundamentals, Digital manufacturing and Industry 4.0 initiatives.

Qualifications

Education: Currently pursuing a BS or MS degree in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biology, Biochemistry, or a related technical field. Preferred fields include Information Management, Information Technology, Computer Engineering, Management Information Systems, Computer Science, Software Engineering / Development, Data Science, Cybersecurity. Have a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or higher, which is reflective of all college coursework.

Experience and Skills

Required: Available to work full-time (40 hrs./week) with reliable transportation to and from site. Strong analytical skills and attention to detail. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint). Excellent organizational and time management skills. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred: Basic understanding of large molecule drug manufacturing processes is a plus. Strong problem solving and communication skills. Demonstrated leadership and/or participation in campus programs and/or community service activities. Experience working in a cGMP environment is preferred.

Requirements

Currently pursuing a BS or MS degree in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biology, Biochemistry, or a related technical field
Cumulative GPA of 2.8 or higher
Available to work full-time (40 hrs./week) with reliable transportation to and from site
Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
Excellent organizational and time management skills
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Permanently authorized to work in the U.S. without requiring sponsorship of an employment visa (e.g., H-1B or green card) at the time of application or in the future

Company overview

Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine is the pharmaceutical division of Johnson & Johnson, leading the way in medical innovation with a relentless focus on bringing transformational treatments to patients worldwide. The company applies rigorous science and compassion to address the most complex diseases of our time, developing groundbreaking medicines across key therapeutic areas including oncology, immunology, neuroscience, and cardiopulmonary medicine. With deep expertise and global reach, Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine reimagines how devastating diseases are treated and cured, delivering hope and better care for millions of patients and their families. The organization pioneers the path from laboratory research to clinical application, championing patients every step of the way while maintaining an unwavering commitment to scientific excellence and patient-centered innovation.