Automation Architect (Lead)

Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled Automation Architect (Lead) to join a major greenfield Oral Solid Dosage (OSD) manufacturing project in Yamagata, Japan. This is a 1-year renewable contract opportunity to play a pivotal role in designing and implementing cutting-edge automation systems for a state-of-the-art pharmaceutical facility.

This high-impact position requires extensive experience in capital expenditure (CapEx) projects, deep expertise in pharmaceutical automation, and the ability to lead technical implementation in a complex, GMP-regulated environment.

Responsibilities

As the Automation Architect (Lead), you will:

• Lead and own the technical implementation of automation systems throughout the project lifecycle.
• Define the automation architecture in alignment with the client’s system landscape and standards.
• Design and manage automation solutions across Process and Building Infrastructure (B&I).
• Develop and refine automation concepts, migration strategies, and technical standards.
• Oversee project activities from commissioning to handover.
• Ensure lifecycle management of automation systems.
• Create, review, and update technical documentation, including SOPs, Business Assessments, standards, and functional specifications.
• Coordinate and manage internal and external teams.
• Provide technical analysis and resolution for complex automation challenges.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within automation systems.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and cGMP requirements.

Qualifications

To excel in this role, you should have:

• Experience:
  • 10+ years as an Automation Architect within the pharmaceutical industry.
  • Proven leadership on large CapEx projects (€50M+).
  • International project exposure.
• Technical Expertise:
  • Hands-on experience with multiple automation platforms, including:
    • Siemens (PCS7, WinCC, DesigoCC, Neo)
    • Beckhoff
    • Schneider / Aveva / Wonderware
    • Mitsubishi
  • Proficiency in Building & Infrastructure systems (clean & black utilities, HVAC, AHU).
  • Knowledge of Process & Factory Automation frameworks (e.g., Modular Automation).
  • Expertise in PLCs, HMI/SCADA systems, and communication protocols (OPC UA, Bacnet, Profinet, MTP, MSI).
  • Experience with OT to IT integration, including historian systems (e.g., inmation) and MES.
  • Strong understanding of automation framework design, testing strategies, and compliance within cGMP environments.
  • Deep knowledge of GxP, computer system validation, and regulatory requirements.
• Skills:
  • Strong solution architecture and process optimization capabilities.
  • Ability to evaluate and select tools based on project needs.
  • Excellent stakeholder and team management skills.
  • Analytical mindset with a structured approach to risk management.
  • Exceptional documentation and communication skills.

Day-to-Day

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define and implement automation strategies.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
• Lead the integration of automation systems across process and building infrastructure.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation challenges.
• Monitor project progress and ensure timely delivery of automation milestones.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance system performance and reliability.

Benefits

• Opportunity to work on a high-profile greenfield pharmaceutical project.
• Competitive compensation package.
• 1-year renewable contract with potential for long-term engagement.
• Exposure to cutting-edge automation technologies and international project environments.
• Professional growth and development in a dynamic and innovative setting.

If you are a seasoned Automation Architect with a passion for delivering excellence in pharmaceutical automation, we invite you to join our team and contribute to the success of this groundbreaking project.

Location: Yamagata, Japan
Contract: 1-Year Renewable

Apply today to take the next step in your career!