Completes or oversees all the calibration and testing of the various instruments and pieces of equipment used in the lab for measuring, weighing and processing raw and refined materials

The validation engineer is usually responsible for determining what equipment in the lab needs to be replaced or removed, and also may be responsible for completing the laboratory equipment budget, purchasing new equipment and even training others on the team in the proper use of the equipment. The validation engineer often works directly with contractors, suppliers and vendors to troubleshoot or install equipment with the lab or manufacturing plant.

The validation engineer is usually the team leader or supervisory for the validation technicians and lab employees. He or she may also be directly involved in the training and mentoring of new employees and team members with regards to equipment use and calibration. The validation engineer should have excellent communication skills, be a problem solver, and have good understanding of good laboratory practices (GLP) and good manufacturing practices (GMP).

The validation engineer should be well versed in proper documentation and data analysis as well as be an independent worker and able to meet reporting deadlines and guidelines.

The minimum level of education for a validation engineer is a Bachelors degree in a science field and several years experience in the field of validation. Many validation technicians work towards their Bachelors or Masters degrees while employed by a lab so that upon graduation they have both their degree and work experience.

Depending on the type of equipment and facility the validation engineer should have a good mechanical understanding of laboratory equipment as well as a background in computers. Additional certification for calibration of equipment is often considered critical. Some pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies require additional training in Aseptic Processing Guidelines as well as GLP and GMP training.