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Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DMC Engineering

Entry Level Automation Engineer

Tampa, FL · Hybrid

$83K - $95K/yr

This role is for any entry level engineer (0-3 years of experience). We have an exceptional onboarding and training program to help align your skillset with our technical offerings. Responsibilities:

Rangeview

Mechanical Automation Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$90K - $154K/yr

Mechanical Automation Engineer El Segundo, California, United States Company Overview Rangeview is ... We are currently hiring for L1(entry level) - L3IC (Senior). Job Responsibilities * Design and ...

Catalyx

Automation Engineer 2

Horsham, PA · On-site

May provide guidance and assistance to entry-level Engineers. Responsibilities and Duties: Execute the design, development, and technical support of automation solutions adhering to industry ...

Catalyx

Automation Engineer 2

Horsham, PA

$80K - $95K/yr

May provide guidance and assistance to entry-level Engineers. Responsibilities and Duties: * Execute the design, development, and technical support of automation solutions adhering to industry ...

Cellares

Automation Engineer (I, II, III)

Bridgewater, NJ · On-site

$90K - $210K/yr

We are seeking an Automation Engineer to support the development, validation, and day-to-day ... Partnering with Cellares enables academics, biotechs, and pharma companies to accelerate drug ...

Cellares

Automation Engineer (I, II, III)

Bridgewater, NJ · On-site

$90K - $210K/yr

We are seeking an Automation Engineer to support the development, validation, and day-to-day ... Partnering with Cellares enables academics, biotechs, and pharma companies to accelerate drug ...

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Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineer information

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$37K

$107.1K

$163K

How much do entry level pharma automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level pharma automation engineer in the United States is $107,126.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,500.00 and $123,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineer vs Process Technician?

AspectEntry Level Pharma Automation EngineerProcess Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Automation, or related fieldHigh school diploma or associate degree, technical training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing facilities, labs, automation systemsProduction lines, manufacturing floors
Industry UsageDesign, develop, and maintain automation systems in pharmaOperate and troubleshoot manufacturing equipment

While both roles work within pharmaceutical manufacturing, the Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineer focuses on automation system design and maintenance, requiring a degree and technical knowledge. The Process Technician primarily operates and troubleshoots production equipment, often with technical training or experience. Both roles are essential but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What does an Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineer do?

An Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineer works on designing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems in pharmaceutical manufacturing environments. Their responsibilities often include programming equipment, troubleshooting automation issues, and ensuring that processes comply with regulatory standards. They collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize production efficiency, improve safety, and maintain product quality. This role provides foundational experience in both engineering and the highly regulated pharmaceutical industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering (such as chemical, electrical, or mechanical), understanding of automation principles, and a relevant degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industry standards like GAMP or FDA regulations is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in cross-functional teams and problem-solving. These skills ensure safe, compliant, and efficient automation processes vital to pharmaceutical manufacturing and quality control.

What types of projects and technologies do Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineers typically work on in their first year?

Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineers often begin their careers supporting the design, implementation, and troubleshooting of automation systems in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Common projects include assisting with the configuration of programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and distributed control systems (DCS) to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements. You’ll likely work closely with senior engineers and cross-functional teams such as quality assurance, production, and IT, gaining hands-on experience with validation protocols and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). This collaborative environment offers valuable exposure to industry-specific automation tools and prepares you for more advanced responsibilities as you progress.
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Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineer jobs near you
Process Automation Engineer

Process Automation Engineer

Elanco Animal Health Incorporated

Clinton, IN • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Elanco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 74 rated pharmaceutical

Job description

At Elanco (NYSE: ELAN) - it all starts with animals!
As a global leader in animal health, we are dedicated to innovation and delivering products and services to prevent and treat disease in farm animals and pets. At Elanco, we are driven by our vision of Food and Companionship Enriching Life and our purpose - all to Go Beyond for Animals, Customers, Society and Our People.
At Elanco, we pride ourselves on fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. We believe that diversity is the driving force behind innovation, creativity, and overall business success. Here, you'll be part of a company that values and champions new ways of thinking, work with dynamic individuals, and acquire new skills and experiences that will propel your career to new heights.
Making animals' lives better makes life better - join our team today!
Your Role: Process Automation Engineer
As a Process Automation Engineer, you will support the Clinton Manufacturing site by delivering and optimizing automation and control systems that drive safe, reliable, and efficient operations. In this role, you'll partner with cross-functional teams to plan, implement, and support Operational Technology (OT) solutions that improve quality, throughput, and cost while advancing the site's automation strategy and lifecycle management.
Your Responsibilities:
  • Provide troubleshooting, maintenance, change management, and ongoing support for control systems (PLCs, HMIs, DeltaV, vision, etc.) to ensure reliable operations
  • Lead and support small to medium automation projects, including planning, coordination of internal/contract resources, scheduling, and issue resolution
  • Identify and implement process improvements and optimized control strategies to enhance safety, quality, and productivity
  • Partner with Operations, Engineering, and Quality to ensure validated, compliant automation solutions that meet business requirements
  • Train, mentor, and influence site teams to increase effective use of automation systems, data, and tools

What You Need to Succeed (minimum qualifications):
  • Education: Bachelor's Degree in Engineering (Controls, Automation, Computer/Control Systems, or related field)
  • Required Experience: Experience with industrial control system programming and support (PLCs, HMIs, DCS such as DeltaV) in a manufacturing environment
  • Top 2 skills: Strong project management and prioritization skills combined with excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration

What will give you a competitive edge (preferred qualifications):
  • Experience in a regulated manufacturing environment (pharma, biotech, food, or similar)
  • Knowledge of computer system validation (CSV) and change control practices
  • Experience supporting Operational Technology (OT) lifecycle strategy and system upgrades
  • Demonstrated ability to deliver automation-driven process improvements and business value
  • Experience coordinating contractors and cross-functional project teams

Additional Information:
  • Location: Clinton, IN - On-site manufacturing environment (24/7 support as business needs require)

Don't meet every single requirement? Studies have shown underrepresented groups are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Elanco we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive work environment. If you think you might be a good fit for a role but don't necessarily meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply. You may be the right candidate for this role or other roles!
Elanco Benefits and Perks:
We offer a comprehensive benefits package focusing on financial, physical, and mental well-being while encouraging our employees to pursue our purpose! Some highlights include:
  • Multiple relocation packages
  • Two weeklong shutdowns (mid-summer and year-end) in the US (in addition to PTO)
  • 8-week parental leave
  • 9 Employee Resource Groups
  • Annual bonus offering
  • Up to 6% 401K matching

#LI-BP1
Elanco is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status
Elanco may use automated tools, including AI, to support parts of our recruitment process, such as reviewing applications against job-related criteria and/or transferrable skills. These tools help ensure a consistent, structured evaluation, but they do not make hiring decisions. All decisions involve a human reviewer. For more information on how we handle personal data, please see our Elanco Workforce Privacy Notice.

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