Process Equipment Engineer

Why Patients Need You

Pfizer’s purpose is to deliver breakthroughs that change patients’ lives. Research and Development is at the heart of fulfilling Pfizer’s purpose as we work to translate advanced science and technologies into the therapies and vaccines that matter most. Chemical Research and Development (CRD), as part of Worldwide R&D in Pharmaceutical Sciences, is responsible for the development of process technology and the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API).

The Groton Kilo Lab (KL) facility located in Groton, CT is a multi-product clinical API manufacturing facility. It is the primary internal small molecule manufacturing facility for early clinical supplies enabling speed to the clinic. Capabilities have recently been expanded to include continuous processing using our FAST platforms with additional expansion to include high potency capabilities to manufacture GMP supplies of ADC drug linkers.

What You Will Achieve

We are seeking a Process Equipment Engineer to join the CRD Manufacturing team in Groton, CT. The Process Equipment Engineer will be involved in the design, development and deployment of novel equipment systems for the manufacture of clinical API supplies for existing and new facilities. The successful candidate is an expert in the design and performance aspects of the manufacturing facilities (equipment, utilities, controls, procedures), while understanding technical capabilities and limitations to properly advise the development and construction of new equipment systems from conceptualization through realization. The successful candidate collaborates with Operations, Engineering, Validation, Quality, EHS, automation/controls, equipment vendors, and project teams to drive equipment readiness, troubleshooting, commissioning/qualification support, GMP execution readiness, and operational problem solving. Given the dynamic team environment, strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential.

How You Will Achieve It

• Identify, prioritize, and execute equipment/facility improvement projects that improve safety, compliance, reliability, maintainability, operational efficiency, and future manufacturing capability.
• Serve as a technical subject matter expert for Kilo Lab process equipment, utilities, controls, procedures, and supporting facility systems used in clinical API manufacturing.
• Partner with Operations, Engineering, Quality, Validation, EHS, Global Operations, automation/controls, and external vendors to resolve equipment issues and deliver practical manufacturing solutions.
• Lead or contribute to equipment design, modification, commissioning, qualification, cleaning strategy, SOP development, and lifecycle management for new and existing process equipment systems.
• Lead or support process safety activities, including PHAs, HAZOPs, risk assessments, equipment hazard evaluations, and implementation of appropriate engineering and procedural controls.
• Manage vendor and project interfaces for equipment procurement, installation, integration, startup, and technical support while maintaining alignment with project schedules and business priorities.
• Apply strong technical judgment and cross-functional influence to support current clinical supply needs, new technology deployment, high-potency expansion, FAST/continuous processing platforms, and long-term Kilo Lab capability growth.

Qualifications

Must-Have

• BS/BA in engineering (chemical, mechanical, electrical) or related field with at least 4 years relevant experience in pharma or biopharma or an MBA/MS with at least 2 years of experience
• Excellent oral and written communication skill and a demonstrated ability to work effectively in a multidiscipline team environment.
• Comfortable as part of a highly competent and self-motivated team, and has the ability to deal with the challenges of both older facilities as well as those a new facility start-up may present
• Demonstrated ability to work on own initiative and proactively respond to business needs
• Knowledge of building process, construction principles, and safety regulations as well as working knowledge of chemical engineering principles including reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, heat and mass transport, and equipment design
• Proficient knowledge of cGMP and process safety

• Project management experience, including budgeting and scheduling
• Experience using common AI tools, including generative technologies such as ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot, to support problem solving and enhance productivity.
• Demonstrated curiosity for exploring how these tools can improve outcomes and understanding of responsible AI practices, including risk management and ethical use.

Nice to have

• Strong leadership abilities and the ability to inspire and motivate a team
• Adaptability and resilience in the face of challenges and change
• Experience using common AI tools, including generative technologies such as ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot, to support problem solving and enhance

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

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