Senior Mechatronics Engineer; Packaging Operations

Position: Senior Mechatronics Engineer (Packaging Operations)
Senior Engineer, Mechatronics (Packaging Operations)

Location:

Leiden, The Netherlands
Working Model:
Fully On-site

Contract:

Full-time

Start Date:

January 2027 or sooner

About the Role
We are looking for an experienced Senior Mechatronics Engineer to join a high-performing manufacturing and engineering team supporting critical packaging operations within a regulated production environment.

In this role, you will serve as the technical expert for complex mechatronics systems, ensuring maximum equipment reliability, performance, and uptime across state-of-the‑art packaging and labelling lines. The position combines hands‑on troubleshooting, continuous improvement, equipment ownership, and cross‑functional project leadership.

You will play a key role in supporting the 24/7 manufacturing operation by driving sustainable technical solutions, leading root cause investigations, and implementing improvements that enhance operational performance.

Key Responsibilities

Act as the subject matter expert for mechatronics systems across packaging and manufacturing operations.

Provide second-line technical support for complex equipment issues involving mechanical, electrical, and automation systems.

Lead structured troubleshooting and root cause investigations to identify sustainable solutions.

Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on equipment reliability, efficiency, and uptime.

Serve as System Owner for critical packaging and manufacturing assets.

Support the deployment of new products, equipment upgrades, and engineering projects across packaging lines.

Independently plan and execute maintenance and engineering activities within assigned projects.

Develop test protocols, perform technical evaluations, and prepare technical assessment reports.

Collaborate closely with cross‑functional stakeholders including Manufacturing, Quality Assurance, Validation, Automation, Digital, Supply Chain, and Equipment Engineering teams.

Lead technical investigations and improvement projects involving multiple departments and external vendors.

Coach and support maintenance technicians in resolving complex technical issues.

Participate in an on‑call support rotation for 24/7 production operations.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.

Minimum of 7 years of relevant engineering experience.

At least 5 years of experience within a manufacturing or operations environment.

Strong hands‑on troubleshooting experience with packaging equipment.

Solid technical knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and automation systems.

Experience as a System Owner or technical lead for critical production equipment.

Proven background in Lean Maintenance, Continuous Improvement, and operational excellence.

Experience identifying, prioritising, and implementing technical performance improvements through structured problem‑solving methodologies.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with in a regulated industry such as Pharmaceutical, Biotechnology, Medical Devices, or Food Manufacturing.

GMP experience is highly preferred.

Familiarity with industry regulations and standards such as GMP, OSHA, and EPA.

Personal Skills

Strong analytical and problem‑solving capabilities.

Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Ability to lead cross‑functional investigations and improvement initiatives.

Comfortable operating in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.

Natural coach and mentor for technical teams.

Fluent in English, both written and spoken. Basic Dutch is advantageous.