Packaging and Labeling Automation Engineer

As a Senior Packaging and Labeling Automation Engineer, you will lead the design, integration, commissioning, and optimization of automated packaging and labeling systems, ensuring compliance with industry regulations, machine safety standards, and serialization norms. This role demands strong leadership in managing projects, vendors, and cross-functional coordination while delivering on uptime, quality, and performance metrics. You will also mentor junior engineers and play a key role in scaling packaging operations through automation and innovation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the installation, configuration, commissioning, and upgrading of primary and secondary packaging and labeling automation systems.

• Drive continuous improvement projects focusing on OEE, line balancing, and packaging efficiency.

• Interface with OEMs, automation integrators, validation, and QA teams for new equipment or technology deployments.

• Ensure full compliance with GMP, GDP, 21 CFR Part 11, and serialization regulations across all labeling and packaging platforms.

• Troubleshoot complex issues involving PLCs, vision systems, servo drives, and communication protocols.

• Develop and review technical documentation, SOPs, change control records, and validation reports (IQ/OQ/PQ).

• Lead FAT/SAT, project planning, and support validation of packaging automation systems.

• Provide technical leadership to junior engineers and maintenance teams during shift support and CAPA initiatives.

• Participate in audits (internal, client, or regulatory) and ensure audit readiness of packaging lines.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Advanced Packaging Line Automation

   • Expertise in:

     • High-speed equipment: blister, bottle, pouch, vial, carton, shrink sleeve, and case packing

     • Integration of robotics, pick-and-place units, and palletizing systems

2. Labeling Systems & Serialization

   • Advanced knowledge of:

     • Serialization/aggregation platforms (Level 1-3 systems like SEA Vision, Systech, Antares, TraceLink)

     • Print & apply systems, thermal inkjet/laser printers, and tamper-evident labeling

     • Vision systems: OCR/OCV, barcode verification, camera-based rejection

3. Control & Automation Systems

   • Strong command of:

     • PLC programming and troubleshooting (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Omron)

     • HMI/SCADA systems

     • Industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, Profibus, Modbus)

4. Compliance & Documentation

   • Deep understanding of:

     • GMP, GDP, FDA 21 CFR Part 11

     • Change control, deviations, CAPA, audit trails

     • Qualification protocols: URS, FDS, IQ/OQ/PQ

5. Performance Optimization & Reliability

   • Experience with:

     • Root cause analysis (RCA) and failure mode analysis

     • Predictive maintenance strategies

     • KPI tracking: OEE, MTBF, MTTR

6. Project & Team Leadership

   • Capable of:

     • Leading multi-vendor automation projects

     • Budgeting, resource planning, and timeline management

     • Mentoring junior staff and conducting technical training sessions

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Education:

  • B.E. / B.Tech / M.Tech in Instrumentation, Automation, Mechatronics, Electrical, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering

• Experience:

  • Minimum 7–10 years in packaging and labeling automation roles, ideally in regulated industries

• Technical Skills:

  • Strong knowledge of machine mechanics, PLCs, servo systems, and sensors

  • Ability to read P&IDs, machine drawings, electrical schematics

• Soft Skills:

  • Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills

  • Strong communication and leadership capabilities

  • High attention to detail, documentation, and compliance