Automation Project Delivery Lead (Freelancer)

Job Overview

As

Global Automation Delivery Lead (DCS / PLC) , you will define and implement a pragmatic, risk-based framework for the delivery and governance of DCS- and PLC-based automation systems across the client’s global manufacturing sites. The objective of the role is to create a consistent, scalable, and practical way to manage how these automation systems are designed, engineered, tested, deployed, and handed over across sites.

You will establish lifecycle phases, gateway criteria, and delivery principles that support consistent execution while respecting regulatory and operational expectations. In collaboration with automation engineering, quality, and validation stakeholders, you will help strengthen delivery governance, clarify ownership, reduce unnecessary documentation, and improve efficiency across the automation lifecycle. The role also includes reinforcing the separation between engineering artefacts, automation code, and validation artefacts, while promoting simulation and virtual testing to support earlier issue detection and more effective delivery.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the development and global rollout of a pragmatic automation project delivery framework across manufacturing sites, ensuring harmonised execution without creating an overly prescriptive SOP Define, standardise, and govern the end-to-end automation project lifecycle, including feasibility, FEED, concept definition, scope alignment, functional design, detailed engineering, build, testing, deployment, release, and handover Establish and enforce core delivery principles and governance rules, including clear separation between engineering artefacts and validation artefacts Ensure that functional specifications describe intended functions, operating logic, and performance requirements, while PLC and DCS code remains controlled within approved engineering environments and repositories Define criteria for when specification, design, testing, or validation artefacts must be updated, based on intended use, product impact, and system risk Drive risk-based delivery and validation practices aligned with GAMP 5, CSV expectations, and applicable GMP requirements Promote the use of simulation, virtual testing, and digital twin approaches to enable earlier defect detection, improved design verification, and more efficient project execution Provide technical and delivery leadership for manufacturing automation systems, with particular focus on DCS and PLC-based environments such as Emerson DeltaV and Siemens PCS 7 Coordinate alignment across automation engineering, validation, quality, manufacturing, and IT stakeholders to ensure clear ownership, efficient execution, and consistent project outcomes Define governance expectations for FAT, SAT, commissioning, qualification support, and handover to ensure delivery activities are integrated and non-duplicative Support vendor and system integrator selection, oversight, and governance, ensuring sustainable solutions, knowledge transfer, and appropriate control over intellectual property and engineering deliverables Develop and deliver training, coaching, and onboarding materials to support adoption of the delivery framework across projects, teams, and sites Monitor framework adoption across sites, identify deviations or local constraints, and drive continuous improvement of the delivery model based on implementation feedback and lessons learned

Qualifications, Skills and Experience

To be successful in this role, you should possess the following qualifications and experience: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline Minimum 15 years (preferably 20 years+) of hands-on automation project management and delivery experience in regulated industries, preferably pharmaceuticals or life sciences Strong practical experience with PLC and DCS-based manufacturing / OT systems, including platforms such as DeltaV and PCS 7 Proven ability to apply CSV and validation principles pragmatically in real projects, including FAT, SAT, and change management Analytically and conceptually strong, demonstrated experience designing or introducing project delivery models or lifecycle frameworks Experience leading cross-functional teams and facilitating alignment between engineering, validation, and quality Solid understanding of relevant regulations and standards, including GAMP 5, EU Annex 11, and 21 CFR Part 11 Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills

Why Arcondis

An opportunity to shape the future of healthcare by spearheading transformative deals. A collaborative and innovative work environment, where your ideas are valued, and your contributions make a significant impact. Flexible working environment, enabling work-life balance. Attractive compensation package, inclusive of performance-based incentives that reward exceptional achievements. Professional growth and development opportunities. If you are a dedicated professional with a passion for innovation in life sciences, collaborating across departments, and developing innovative AI/ML solutions, we invite you to apply for this challenging and rewarding position.