Job Details
Posted 22 April, 2026
Job Id: 625564
Automation Architect (Lead)
Job Description
Automation Architect (Lead)
Location: Japan
Japanese language skills are not mandatory.
Overview
A leading global pharmaceutical manufacturer is seeking an experienced Automation Architect (Lead) to support a major greenfield OSD manufacturing facility project in Japan.
This role will lead automation architecture, integration strategy, and technical implementation across process, utilities, and building infrastructure systems within a regulated GMP environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead technical implementation of automation systems with deep understanding of user and interface requirements
- Define automation architecture aligned with enterprise standards and broader systems landscape
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives within automation systems
- Develop and enhance automation concepts, standards, and migration strategies
- Support commissioning and project execution activities
- Ensure full lifecycle management of automation systems
- Design automation architecture integrating multiple systems, including IT interfaces
- Develop, review, and maintain technical SOPs, business applications, standards, and functional specifications
- Coordinate internal teams and external vendors/partners
- Provide technical analysis and support for complex automation challenges
- Oversee automation governance, standards, and architectural consistency
Required Experience & Skills
- 10+ years’ experience leading automation architecture within large-scale pharmaceutical CapEx projects
- Proven experience delivering major investment projects in regulated manufacturing environments
- Strong hands-on integration experience across multiple automation platforms (e.g. PLC, HMI, SCADA, DCS systems)
- Solid experience in Building & Infrastructure systems (utilities, HVAC, AHU) and Process/Factory Automation frameworks
- Strong understanding of communication protocols (e.g. OPC UA, Bacnet, Profinet, MTP, MSI)
- Experience integrating OT systems with IT layers (e.g. historian systems, MES platforms)
- Deep knowledge of automation framework design, testing strategy, lifecycle management, and compliance in cGMP environments
- Strong understanding of GxP, Computer System Validation (CSV), and regulatory requirements
- Experience in solution architecture design and process optimisation
- Excellent stakeholder management, analytical thinking, and risk management capability
- Strong documentation and governance experience
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, sex, gender identity or expression, disability, age, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations. It is our policy not to discriminate against any applicant or employee, and we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful work environment across all locations in which we operate. We believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are fundamental to our mission and enhance our ability to serve clients globally. If you have a disability or require any reasonable accommodations during the application or interview process, please inform your recruiter or contact us directly so that we can explore the appropriate arrangements.
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