Lead Automation Engineer

Date Posted: May 4, 2026

Job Description

The Lead Automation Engineer directs the design, implementation, and qualification of automated manufacturing systems for mission-critical pharmaceutical and life sciences facilities in Singapore. You serve as the primary technical authority for process control systems, ensuring compliance with both local and global regulatory standards (such as GMP, FDA 21 CFR Part 11, and PIC/S). You bridge the gap between IT infrastructure, operational technology, and plant-floor operations to ensure high-yield, error-free production.

Key Responsibilities

Lead Automation Strategy: Direct the architecture and integration of distributed control systems (DCS), supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA), and programmable logic controllers (PLC).
Drive System Qualification: Manage the execution of computer systems validation (CSV) and automation aspects of qualification protocols (IQ/OQ/PQ).
Ensure Regulatory Compliance: Enforce strict data integrity and cybersecurity protocols in accordance with global pharmaceutical guidelines.
Command Incident Response: Act as the senior technical lead during automated system failures to ensure rapid troubleshooting and production recovery.
Manage Vendor Performance: Supervise specialized system integrators and automation vendors to ensure hardware and software delivery meet technical specifications.
Control Operational Costs: Monitor system lifecycle budgets and implement continuous improvement strategies to reduce energy and material consumption.
Coordinate Cross-Functional Upgrades: Lead the integration of advanced manufacturing technologies (such as smart sensors or predictive maintenance software) without interrupting ongoing operations.
Ensure Workplace Safety: Maintain site automation standards in accordance with Singapore’s WSH and NEA requirements.

Required Qualifications and Skills

Technical Foundation: Extensive experience in operating or building automated manufacturing lines in highly regulated environments (Pharmaceuticals, Biologics, or API manufacturing).
System Expertise: Deep knowledge of industrial communication protocols, Allen-Bradley/Siemens control systems, and validated historians like OSIsoft PI.
Academic Background: A Bachelor’s degree in Automation, Mezzanine/Mechatronics, Electrical, or Chemical Engineering. Certification as a Professional Engineer (PE) or relevant ISA automation credentials is highly preferred.
Analytical Thinking: Strong ability to troubleshoot complex control loops and translate compliance anomalies into actionable technical reports.
Leadership Ability: Proven experience managing multi-disciplinary teams and coordinating with international life sciences stakeholders.
Safety & Data Integrity: Comprehensive understanding of GAMP5, 21 CFR Part 11, and GxP standards.
Market Knowledge: Familiarity with Singapore’s health authority regulations and local validation requirements.

If you are keen to grow your career with this job, apply with us and send us your resume now. All shortlisted candidates will be contacted shortly.

Reference no.: 122-4948-2918-NW

Registration no.: 968446516E

Lead Automation Engineer