Automation Engineer Co-Op

About the Role

This is a 5-month Spring Co-Op opportunity in Marlborough, MA, from July 2026 to December 2026, with a start date of July 20, 2026. Applicants must be available for the entire duration.

The Global Manufacturing Systems organization at Moderna is seeking a highly motivated Automation Engineer Co-Op to support the design, development, and deployment of automation solutions for mRNA manufacturing. This role offers hands-on experience with DeltaV, PLCs, and physical instrumentation, contributing to real GMP manufacturing systems for life-changing medicines.

You will work alongside experienced automation engineers in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, gaining exposure to process control systems, manufacturing execution, and equipment integration across development and commercial manufacturing.

Here’s What You’ll Do

• Work closely with experienced automation engineers to quickly learn automation platforms, tools, and best practices.
• Assist in developing, configuring, and testing DeltaV and PLC-based control logic.
• Support the creation and modification of automation logic, sequences, and control strategies.
• Develop and enhance HMI graphics to support safe and efficient manufacturing operations.
• Help integrate physical instrumentation (sensors, analyzers, and equipment) into automation systems.
• Participate in debugging, troubleshooting, and system testing activities.
• Contribute to writing clean, well-documented automation code and configurations.
• Support GMP documentation, testing, and validation activities.
• Shadow engineers during code reviews, deployments, and live manufacturing support.
• Engage in training opportunities to build both technical and professional skills.
• Follow and apply industry and GMP standards in pharmaceutical manufacturing environments.

Here’s What You’ll Need (Basic Qualifications)

• Current student enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's program in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Strong fundamental scientific and engineering skills for the support of Process Automation systems.
• Familiarity with at least one programming language (e.g., Python, JavaScript, Go, Java, or C++).
• Curiosity about process automation development.
• Knowledge of PCS and PLC-based automation systems.
• Strong problem-solving skills, willingness to learn, and ability to work in a team.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.
• Candidates must hold work authorization in the US and be able to maintain that status without the need for future sponsorship.
• This position is site-based, requiring full-time presence at Moderna’s site and is not eligible for remote work.

Here’s What You’ll Bring to the Table (Preferred Qualifications)

• Exposure to automation systems, PLCs, HMI development, or industrial control concepts.
• Familiarity with DeltaV, PLC platforms, or industrial networking (a plus, not required).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to high-performing teams.
• A desire to make an impact as part of a high-growth, transformational company that is Bold, Relentless, Curious, and Collaborative.

Pay & Benefits

Moderna’s co-op benefits are designed to support you, including free premium access to meditation/mindfulness classes, subsidized commuter benefits, generous paid time off (vacation, sick time, holidays, volunteer days, discretionary year-end shutdown), and location-specific perks. The salary range for this role is $20.00 - $60.00 per hour, with the successful candidate potentially eligible for an annual discretionary bonus or other incentive compensation.

About Moderna

Since 2010, Moderna has built a leading mRNA technology platform, an infrastructure to reimagine how medicines are created and delivered, and a world-class team. They believe in giving their people a platform to change medicine and an opportunity to change the world, fostering a culture of belonging and caring for patients, employees, the environment, and communities. Moderna has been recognized as a Science Magazine Top Biopharma Employer, a Fast Company Best Workplace for Innovators, and a Great Place to Work in the U.S.

Our Working Model

Moderna champions an in-person culture with a 70/30 work model (70% in-office) to foster innovation, teamwork, and direct mentorship.

Key skills/competency

• Process Automation
• DeltaV
• PLC Systems
• HMI Development
• Industrial Control
• GMP Standards
• System Integration
• Troubleshooting
• Programming Languages (Python, C++)
• Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing