Lead Automation Engineer

Lead Automation Engineer

Location: Barnard Castle, County Durham, UK

A global pharmaceutical company is seeking an experienced Engineering Automation Lead to join its advanced manufacturing site in Barnard Castle. This site plays a key role in producing medicines and vaccines for global distribution, operating at significant scale and with a strong focus on quality, safety, and innovation.

Role Overview

The Engineering Automation Lead will provide strategic direction and technical leadership to ensure the successful implementation of advanced instrumentation, automation, and control engineering across the site, balancing day‑to‑day operational management with long‑term strategic planning within a GMP‑compliant framework.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a site‑wide automation strategy aligned with business objectives.
• Lead and mentor a team of automation engineers and support skill development among maintenance technicians.
• Design and implement automation systems including PLCs, SCADA, and DCS.
• Ensure compliance with GMP and regulatory standards across all automation processes.
• Deliver training programs to enhance staff proficiency in automation technologies.
• Drive continuous improvement by integrating emerging technologies and industry best practices.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting to minimise downtime.
• Act as a subject matter expert during regulatory inspections and audits.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in Automation, Control, Electrical, Mechatronic Engineering or a related discipline.
• Experience in Six Sigma and Lean Manufacturing within the pharmaceutical sector (Green/Black Belt desirable).
• Strong technical knowledge of ISA standards (e.g. S88, S95), P&ID nomenclature, automation architecture, instrumentation, control panels, HMI, MES, SC, PLCs, and Historians.
• Practical experience with computer system validation (GAMP), cGMPs, and 21 CFR Part 11 in an FDA‑regulated environment.
• Proven leadership experience with a track record of building high‑performing teams and driving transformation.
• Ability to collaborate with cross‑functional teams and senior stakeholders.
• Experience in designing and programming automation applications (firmware/software).

Preferred Skills

• MEng/MSc in a relevant engineering or scientific discipline.
• Understanding of pharmaceutical secondary processing.
• Knowledge of IT architecture, data warehousing, and virtualization.
• Familiarity with cybersecurity in operational technology environments.
• Awareness of EHS regulations related to automated plant installations.
• Understanding of FDA PAT initiatives.
• Experience in automation support and maintenance for instrumentation and controls.

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