Job Description
Lead Automation Engineer Leiden. Netherlands
Language Requirement: Dutch Speaking (Minimum B1 Dutch Speaking).
Contract Duration: initial 12-month contract working via Leap29 after the 12 months you will go into a potential permanent position.
An experienced and motivated Lead Automation Engineer is sought to join an engineering design team based in the Netherlands. The team specialises in the design modification and renovation of pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities with strict adherence to Dutch and EU standards and regulatory frameworks. This position requires a strong background in industrial automation particularly within pharmaceutical environments as well as leadership capabilities and a commitment to delivering innovative and compliant automation solutions.
Key Responsibilities
- Automation System Design: Lead the development and implementation of automation solutions including PLCs SCADA DCS and HMI systems tailored for pharmaceutical manufacturing processes.
- Project Leadership: Oversee automation projects through all phases concept design implementation and commissioning ensuring alignment with project timelines budgets and quality expectations.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all automation systems comply with Dutch and EU standards including GAMP 5 GMP and relevant safety and quality regulations.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Coordinate closely with multidisciplinary teams such as process electrical and HVAC engineers to deliver integrated facility solutions.
- System Modernization: Manage upgrades and retrofits of automation systems in existing pharmaceutical facilities while minimizing operational disruptions.
- Documentation: Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation including automation philosophies user requirements and system architecture diagrams.
- Technical Support: Provide expert troubleshooting and ongoing support during the design installation and operational phases of automation systems.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Act as the primary automation contact building and maintaining strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
- Mentorship and Development: Support the professional growth of junior engineers through guidance knowledge sharing and fostering a collaborative engineering environment.
Qualifications
- Education: Bachelors or Masters degree in Automation Engineering Electrical Engineering or a related discipline.
- Experience: At least 10 years of professional experience in automation engineering with significant exposure to pharmaceutical manufacturing environments.
- Technical Proficiency: Hands-on experience with automation platforms such as Siemens (Step 7 TIA Portal) Rockwell (Allen-Bradley) or similar systems.
- Regulatory Knowledge: In-depth understanding of applicable Dutch and EU regulations including GAMP 5 GMP and IEC standards.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Strong analytical and troubleshooting abilities with a proactive and innovative approach to addressing complex automation challenges.
- Languages: Fluency in English is required; proficiency in Dutch is highly desirable.
- Leadership Skills: Demonstrated ability to lead engineering teams and manage multiple concurrent projects effectively.
- Certifications: Relevant certifications in industrial automation or controls are advantageous.