Automation Engineer (Operational Engineering)

For one of our clients, a global pioneer in pharmaceuticals, we are currently looking for an Automation Engineer – Operational Engineering.

General Information:

• Start Date: 01.07.2026
• Latest possible start date: 01.09.2026
• Planned Employment Duration: unlimited
• Workplace: Basel
• Home Office: possible, max 40%
• Workload: 80-100%
• Team: 25 people
• Department: Pharma Engineering Drug Substance
• Working Hours: Standard

About the job:

As an Automation Engineer within the "Pharma Engineering Solutions – Drug Substance – Small Molecules" sub-circle, you will support the entire process control technology of existing and new process plants for the market and IMP (Investigational Medicinal Product) production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The process plants under your care feature a high degree of automation and are networked with each other as well as with higher-level IT systems.

The ideal candidate

Holds a degree (University of Applied Sciences/Technical University) in Electrical Engineering or Automation and brings at least five years of sound professional experience in the automation of process engineering plants within a GMP environment. You possess solid knowledge of hardware planning using CAE systems such as COMOS or AutoCAD, alongside proven experience as a Project Manager or Sub-project Manager in CAPEX projects. Beyond technical expertise, you are characterized by strong teamwork, excellent communication and coordination skills for dealing with stakeholders at all levels, and a willingness to work in an agile, self-organized environment. Fluent German and good English skills round out your profile.

Tasks & responsibilities:

• Operational engineering of process control technology to ensure the continuous maintenance of production at all times.
• Planning and implementation of plant modifications according to customer requirements, including the creation and adaptation of hardware and software specifications, test plans, and application software, as well as supervising installations and commissioning.
• Contributing as a Sub-project Manager/Project Engineer for automation across all project phases (initiation, design, and realization)—both independently and with the support of internal and external specialists.
• Collaborating with cross-functional interfaces on projects and modifications.
• Supporting internal clients with technical inquiries and during regulatory authority inspections.
• Continuous optimization of process plants, as well as evaluating, testing, and recommending new technologies.

Must Haves:

• Completed degree (University of Applied Sciences / Technical University) in Electrical Engineering or Automation.
• At least 5 years of professional experience in the automation of process engineering plants within a GMP environment.
• Good knowledge of hardware planning using CAE systems (COMOS, AutoCAD, or similar).
• Experience as a Project Manager or Sub-project Manager in CAPEX projects.
• Team player with strong communication and coordination skills within the organization, and an appropriate manner when dealing with stakeholders at all levels.
• Willingness to work in an agile, self-organized work environment.
• Fluent German and good English skills (at least B2) in speech and writing.

Nice to haves:

• Good knowledge of programming Siemens automation and control systems (PCS7, S7, TIA WinCC).

Sounds interesting? Apply now – we’re looking forward to receiving your applications!

Application Submission Deadline: 11.06.2026