Director, Automation Engineering
Location
This position offers a flexible remote work arrangement during the early phases of the program. As facility development advances, the role will transition to a permanent leadership presence at a U.S.-based manufacturing site on the East Coast in late 2027.
Position Overview
A growing advanced manufacturing organization is seeking an experienced automation leader to guide the deployment of digital manufacturing technologies across a major U.S. expansion initiative. This individual will oversee the strategy, implementation, and long-term sustainability of automation, process control, and operational technology systems supporting a highly regulated production environment.
The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping future manufacturing capabilities by leading cross-functional efforts from facility planning through commercial operations, ensuring technology platforms are scalable, compliant, secure, and aligned with business objectives.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead automation and digital manufacturing strategy for a major manufacturing expansion project.
- Oversee control systems, manufacturing software, data systems, and OT infrastructure.
- Partner with engineering, operations, quality, and technology teams to support facility and process design.
- Direct automation startup activities, including commissioning, validation, and operational readiness.
- Manage external vendors, integrators, and technology partners.
- Ensure systems meet regulatory, cybersecurity, and data integrity requirements.
- Drive risk mitigation, continuous improvement, and long-term automation support strategies.
- Provide technical leadership and project updates to senior management.
Preferred Background
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Automation, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline.
- 10+ years of leadership experience in automation, controls, OT, or digital manufacturing within regulated process industries.
- Experience supporting large capital projects, facility startups, or manufacturing expansions.
- Strong knowledge of DCS, PLC, SCADA, MES, industrial networking, and system integration.
- Experience with validation, compliance, industrial cybersecurity, and quality systems.
- Familiarity with batch processing, manufacturing execution technologies, and digital operations platforms.
- Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, manage vendors, and drive strategic initiatives.
- Background in pharmaceutical, chemical, biotechnology, specialty materials, or advanced manufacturing environments preferred.
- Willingness to travel and transition to a future U.S. site location as business needs evolve.
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your resume and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organizations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.Â
That's why we recommend registering your CV so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.Â
Yes, we help with CV and interview preparation. From customised support on how to optimise your resume to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.