Head of Process Automation, Foster City Biologics Manufacturing
Gilead Sciences
August 19, 2026
Full-time
On-site
San Francisco Bay Area
Operations
Role: Head of Process Automation for Foster City Biologics Manufacturing, responsible for defining and executing automation strategy, governance, and lifecycle management of DeltaV systems supporting GMP and non-GMP biologics production. Responsibilities include leading a high-performing engineering team, overseeing automation design, startup, qualification, operational readiness, and steady-state support; collaborating cross-functionally with manufacturing, IT, quality, and external vendors; and establishing automation standards and compliance protocols. The role involves system ownership of DeltaV platform, lifecycle management, and integration with digital manufacturing platforms (MES, LIMS, analytics). Leadership duties encompass organizational building, talent development, and fostering a culture of technical excellence and compliance. The position manages automation project delivery, troubleshooting, incident management, and cybersecurity in a regulated environment. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field with 10+ years (or equivalent advanced degree and experience), deep expertise in DeltaV automation, biologics manufacturing experience, GMP validation, and leadership skills. Preferred: advanced degree, extensive experience with biopharma process control, automation in biologics, and project management. High-value specifics include biologics drug substance manufacturing, GMP compliance, lifecycle ownership, and digital manufacturing integration. Work setup: based in Foster City, with leadership and cross-functional collaboration as core components.