Job Title: Healthcare Automation Engineer
Job Summary:
The Senior Healthcare Automation Engineer is responsible for leading the development, implementation, and optimization of advanced automation systems in healthcare facilities. This role involves managing large-scale projects, resolving complex technical challenges, and ensuring compliance with healthcare standards. The senior engineer provides technical leadership, mentors junior team members, and collaborates with cross-functional teams to enhance operational efficiency and system reliability.
Key Responsibilities:
System Design, Implementation, and Optimization:
- Lead the design, installation, and integration of advanced automation systems, including SCADA, PLCs, IoT, and AI-enabled devices.
- Develop and oversee preventive maintenance strategies to ensure system reliability and minimize downtime.
- Conduct performance evaluations of existing automation systems and implement optimization strategies.
Advanced Troubleshooting and Diagnostics:
- Diagnose and resolve complex technical issues using advanced diagnostic tools and methodologies.
- Conduct root cause analyses for recurring malfunctions and implement corrective actions to prevent reoccurrence.
- Collaborate with vendors and manufacturers to resolve critical technical challenges.
System Integration and Upgrades:
- Oversee the integration of medical devices with healthcare information systems (e.g., HIS, EMR, PACS).
- Validate and ensure compatibility of new systems with existing infrastructure and workflows.
- Lead retrofitting and upgrade projects to align legacy systems with current technologies and compliance standards.
Regulatory Compliance and Quality Assurance:
- Ensure all automation operations comply with FDA, ISO 13485, IEC 60601, and other applicable healthcare regulations.
- Prepare for and lead internal and external audits to maintain compliance certifications.
- Develop and enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs) for automation system maintenance and operations.
Project Management and Leadership:
- Plan, execute, and manage large-scale automation projects, ensuring on-time and within-budget delivery.
- Allocate resources effectively, monitor project progress, and report outcomes to senior leadership.
- Mentor junior and mid-level engineers, fostering professional growth and technical expertise.
Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement:
- Act as a liaison between technical teams, clinical staff, and management to align automation solutions with organizational goals.
- Provide regular updates and insights to stakeholders on system performance, compliance, and operational metrics.
- Work closely with vendors to procure equipment and implement advanced technologies.
Innovation and Continuous Improvement:
- Drive innovation by identifying and implementing emerging technologies such as AI, machine learning, and predictive analytics in healthcare automation.
- Lead initiatives to streamline workflows, enhance device integration, and reduce operational costs.
- Stay updated on industry trends and regulatory changes to keep the organization at the forefront of healthcare automation.
Key Focus Areas:
- System Leadership: Oversee the implementation and optimization of complex automation systems.
- Advanced Troubleshooting: Resolve high-level technical challenges and ensure system reliability.
- Team Development: Mentor and guide technical teams to foster skill development and operational excellence.
- Compliance and Quality: Maintain strict adherence to regulatory standards and ensure audit readiness.
Skills and Knowledge Required:
- In-depth knowledge of automation technologies, including SCADA, PLCs, IoT, HMI, and AI-enabled systems.
- Strong understanding of healthcare systems (HIS, EMR, PACS) and their integration with automation solutions.
- Expertise in regulatory compliance standards (e.g., FDA, ISO 13485, IEC 60601) and quality management systems.
- Advanced troubleshooting and problem-solving skills to address complex technical issues.
- Leadership skills for managing teams, projects, and stakeholder expectations effectively.
Educational Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Advanced certifications in automation systems (e.g., PLC programming, SCADA systems) or project management (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2) are highly desirable.
Experience:
- 7-10 years of experience in implementing and managing automation systems, with significant exposure to healthcare applications.
- Proven track record of leading large-scale projects and mentoring technical teams.
Tools and Technologies:
- Proficiency in advanced diagnostic tools, automation platforms (SCADA, PLCs, HMI), and AI-driven solutions.
- Familiarity with data analytics tools for performance monitoring and predictive maintenance.
- Expertise in programming languages (e.g., Python, C++) and cloud-based automation platforms is a plus.
Other Requirements:
- Strong organizational and decision-making skills to manage complex projects and priorities effectively.
- Willingness to travel occasionally to oversee multi-site operations and training sessions.
- Commitment to maintaining safety, quality, and compliance in all activities.