Head of Site Automation Engineering

CSL Plasma • Kankakee, IL

21h

About The Position

The Head of Automation Engineering is responsible for providing strategic and operational leadership for the engineering and automation functions supporting manufacturing processes. This role ensures the reliable, efficient, and compliant operation of manufacturing execution systems (MES), automation platforms, and related technologies. The position drives the deployment of global standards, supports capital investment projects, and fosters continuous improvement in alignment with industry best practices and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• Minimum B.S. in Engineering and experience in Process Control Engineering, preferably in major pharmaceutical manufacturing handling automation engineering, Utilities, Warehouse, and Building Automation systems.
• 10+ years of working experience in Biopharma engineering, operations, and manufacturing
• In collaboration with automation and compliance consultants, establish and reinforce standards for adequate rigor in automation work products.
• Ensure that engineers remain focused and complete critical assignments with proper monitoring and reporting.
• Experience in process control, automation, construction, quality, project management, safety, and engineering.
• Collaborative team player with decision-making and influencing skills.
• Strong understanding of cGMPs and FDA regulations.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage multiple projects.
• Strategic thinker with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Strategic Project Leadership
• Technical Engineering Expertise
• Capital Planning and Execution
• Stakeholder and Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Compliance and Risk Management
• Operational Excellence
• Communication and Executive Influence

Responsibilities

• Engineering & Automation Leadership § Lead the engineering function related to manufacturing processes, ensuring alignment with global biopharma standards and best practices. § Plan and optimize the layout of machinery and equipment to enhance efficiency and productivity. § Test and evaluate production equipment and machinery to ensure reliability, efficiency, and compliance with cGMP and FDA regulations. § Resolve engineering problems and review/approve final tool and system designs. § Adapt machine and equipment design to plant and production conditions, ensuring seamless integration with manufacturing operations.
• Execution Systems & Technology Deployment § Apply and deploy automation and manufacturing IT standards globally, supporting efficient delivery of capital investment projects. § Oversee the implementation, validation, and lifecycle management of MES and automation platforms. § Ensure systems are robust, scalable, and compliant with regulatory requirements
• Project Management & Collaboration § Participate in the direction and coordination of planning and completion of engineering and automation projects. § Manage, organize, develop, and deploy best practice frameworks, processes, tools, and templates in an operations context, in alignment with enterprise standards. § Influence and collaborate with project professionals and stakeholders, including non-specialists, at all levels of the organization.
• Continuous Improvement & Innovation § Drive continuous improvement initiatives in automation and execution systems to optimize manufacturing performance. § Evaluate emerging technologies and recommend solutions to enhance operational efficiency and reliability.
• Compliance & Quality § Ensure functional knowledge and application of cGMPs and manufacturing operations in FDA-regulated facilities. § Support audits, inspections, and regulatory submissions related to automation and execution systems.
• Team Leadership & Development § Place a high priority on developing others through coaching, feedback, and developmental goals. § Provide a positive and equitable working environment, emphasizing values such as Customer Focus, Innovation, Integrity, Collaboration, and Superior Performance. Completes any other duties/responsibilities assigned by senior management.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees