Automation Engineering Manager

USE YOUR POWER FOR PURPOSE The Automation Engineering Manager is a member of the Site Digital & Automation Team and is accountable for leading automation operations, lifecycle management, and production continuity across site automation and digital systems supporting manufacturing operations. This role provides leadership, direction, and governance across automation engineering activities, ensuring reliable, compliant, and efficient operation of production-critical systems. The role works in close collaboration with Operations, Engineering, and Core Digital & Automation partners.

Lead automation operations to ensure production continuity and system reliability across the site. Serve as an escalation point for automation-related production issues and coordinate resolution across teams. Provide guidance to Operations and Engineering on automation system performance and risks. Ensure smooth transition of systems from project delivery into business-as-usual operations.

Own automation lifecycle management ensuring systems remain compliant, validated, and fit for purpose. Establish and enforce standards for lifecycle documentation, change management, and validation. Oversee regulatory compliance aligned with GMP, GAMP, and audit requirements. Drive periodic reviews, system upgrades, and proactive lifecycle planning.

Lead site-level response to major automation incidents and crises impacting production. Ensure effective Business Continuity Plan (BCP) readiness, testing, and execution. Coordinate cross-functional and vendor support during high-severity events. Ensure incident documentation, root cause analysis, and corrective actions are completed.

Manage control systems and automation infrastructure including DCS, PLC, SCADA, HMI, and related systems. Drive governance of system changes, upgrades, and infrastructure improvements. Oversee vendor engagement, system integration, and technology roadmap execution. Ensure alignment to site and network architecture standards.

Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance automation and manufacturing systems performance and reliability. Drive standardization of automation practices and coding standards. Enable data-driven decision making and performance optimization.

Provide technical and operational guidance across automation activities. Drive stakeholder engagement across Operations, Engineering, and Digital teams. Ensure alignment with site priorities and network strategies.

Strong leadership capabilities. Comprehensive knowledge of manufacturing automation systems and lifecycle management. Deep understanding of GMP and validated environments. Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills. Ability to work independently while leading projects and deliverables. Ability to influence cross-functional teams and deliver tangible results.

Applicant must have a bachelor's degree with at least 4 years of experience; OR a master's degree with at least 2 years of experience; OR a PhD with 0+ years of experience; OR as associate's degree with 8 years of experience; OR a high school diploma (or equivalent) and 10 years of relevant experience. Degree in Electrical, Electronic, Automation, Mechatronic, Chemical, or Computer Science Engineering.

Extensive experience in automation engineering within pharmaceutical or GMP environments. Strong knowledge of GAMP guidelines applicable to in-scope…