Job Title: Process Equipment Engineer - Pharma
Location: Tonawanda, NY
Duration: 12 Months
Summary:
We are seeking a hands-on Equipment Engineer with strong experience in lyophilization (freeze drying) systems to support installation, commissioning, and maintenance activities in a life sciences manufacturing environment. This is an execution-focused role ideal for candidates with a field service or maintenance background. The position requires working directly on equipment, performing troubleshooting, calibration, and system checks on the manufacturing floor.
The role is critical in ensuring equipment reliability, operational readiness, and lifecycle performance of freeze dryers and associated process systems.
Key Responsibilities:
- Perform hands-on installation, commissioning, and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) of freeze dryers and related equipment
- Execute preventive, corrective, and predictive maintenance for lyophilization systems
- Conduct temperature mapping studies for freeze dryers and associated systems
- Perform I/O checks, including simulation of electrical and physical signals
- Execute instrumentation loop calibration (temperature, pressure, vacuum systems)
- Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical, electrical, and PLC/control system issues
- Perform on-site repairs, adjustments, and fault isolation with minimal supervision
- Support equipment start-up, functional testing, and performance verification
- Prepare sites for installation, including equipment assembly and readiness activities
Required Qualifications:
- Hands-on experience with lyophilization (freeze dryer) equipment in pharma, biotech, or life sciences
- Strong background in electro-mechanical maintenance and field service
- Proven ability to independently perform:
- Temperature mapping
- I/O checks (signal simulation)
- Instrumentation loop calibration (temperature, pressure, vacuum)
- Experience supporting installation, commissioning, and SAT activities
Technical Skills:
- Strong understanding of mechanical and electrical systems
- Experience with PLC-controlled equipment and basic controls troubleshooting
- Knowledge of fault finding and root cause analysis