Director - Automation Engineering

Role Summary

Director, Automation Engineering. Lead for Process Automation support and ownership of Operational Technology systems at the Fort Dodge, Iowa site, including operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, project support, continuous improvement, and lifecycle management for automation systems (DCS, PLCs, BMS) with emphasis on compliance, risk reduction, and efficiency. Partner with other leaders to implement cross-functional improvements and ensure regulatory compliance including computer system validation.

Responsibilities

• Operational Management: Oversee daily departmental activities, resource allocation, budget, and business plan. Manage headcount, overtime, and expenses. Collaborate with stakeholders and prioritize tasks based on business goals, escalating issues as needed.
• Continuous Improvement: Drive automation value improvement via best practices, leading computer system validation, and data-driven problem-solving. Participate in site operations to identify and implement automation solutions.
• People Development: Foster employee growth through performance management, coaching, mentoring, career counseling, and performance reviews. Develop succession plans.
• Collaboration and Alignment: Work with Global Engineering to align with corporate initiatives, standards, and policies. Partner with Human Resources on personnel matters.
• Safety Leadership: Promote a strong safety culture with proactive risk reduction and timely incident reporting; ensure safety is integrated into all automation tasks.

Qualifications

• Required: Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field.
• Required: Minimum 5 years' experience in a regulated industry.
• Required: Knowledge of automation systems and equipment commissioning and qualification processes; knowledge of cGMPs and guidelines.
• Required: Proven experience leading teams focused on front-line support and strategic planning.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in the animal health or pharmaceutical industry.
• Exposure to Lean Six Sigma principles.
• Knowledge of CFR 9 and USDA guidelines.

Skills

• Leadership and people management
• Automation systems (DCS, PLC, BMS) and qualification processes
• Regulatory compliance (cGMP, CFR 9, USDA)
• Continuous improvement and data-driven problem solving
• Cross-functional collaboration
• Safety Management

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Additional Requirements

• None specified beyond qualifications above