Manufacturing Automation Lead

Job Title: Manufacturing Automation Lead
Location: Myerstown, PA (Onsite)
Experience: 8+ Years

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Digital & Automation Lead to drive digital transformation and Factory of the Future initiatives at our Myerstown manufacturing site. This role will lead the implementation of advanced manufacturing technologies, automation solutions, and digital platforms to improve operational efficiency, quality, compliance, and productivity. The ideal candidate will possess strong experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing, MES, automation systems, electronic batch records (EBR), and cross-functional leadership.

The Digital & Automation Lead will collaborate closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, Manufacturing IT, and Operations teams to deliver strategic digital transformation projects while ensuring GMP and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end Factory of the Future (FoF) digital transformation initiatives across manufacturing operations.
• Drive implementation of automation technologies, robotics, smart manufacturing, and digital manufacturing solutions.
• Partner with Manufacturing IT, Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and Operations to define and execute digital roadmaps.
• Lead deployment and optimization of Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and Electronic Batch Records (EBR).
• Identify opportunities to improve manufacturing performance using automation, analytics, AI, and digital technologies.
• Lead cross-functional project teams through planning, execution, validation, and deployment of digital solutions.
• Support root cause investigations, CAPA activities, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure all digital initiatives comply with GMP, FDA, and global regulatory requirements.
• Develop KPIs, dashboards, and data-driven insights to support operational excellence.
• Mentor and coach Core Operations teams to build digital capabilities and automation expertise.
• Collaborate with validation and quality teams to ensure compliant implementation of new technologies.
• Support audit readiness and participate in internal and external regulatory inspections.
• Drive Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma initiatives to eliminate waste and improve productivity.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and recommend innovative solutions for manufacturing excellence.
• Manage project risks, timelines, budgets, and stakeholder communications.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Automation, Computer Science, Manufacturing, or a related technical discipline.
• 8+ years of experience in digital manufacturing, automation, MES, or industrial transformation.
• Strong experience leading digital transformation initiatives within pharmaceutical or regulated manufacturing environments.
• Hands-on knowledge of Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES).
• Experience implementing Electronic Batch Records (EBR).
• Strong understanding of industrial automation, robotics, and smart manufacturing technologies.
• Knowledge of GMP, FDA regulations, GAMP5, validation, and regulatory compliance.
• Experience conducting root cause investigations and CAPA management.
• Proven leadership experience managing cross-functional technical teams.
• Strong stakeholder management and executive communication skills.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Industry 4.0 and Factory of the Future initiatives.
• Knowledge of AI, machine learning, and advanced manufacturing analytics.
• Experience integrating MES with ERP, SCADA, PLC, and manufacturing automation systems.
• Familiarity with pharmaceutical manufacturing processes and validation practices.
• PMP, Lean Six Sigma Green Belt/Black Belt, or equivalent certifications.
• Experience with cloud-based manufacturing platforms and Industrial IoT solutions.