Automation Lead

Role Overview

Based in Tuas South Avenue, Singapore, this full-time position leads the Automation group responsible for establishing, maintaining, and optimizing automation processes for building infrastructure, equipment, and utilities within the assigned regional site. The Automation Lead acts as the strategic head, managing projects and initiatives aimed at delivering cost-effective technical solutions and establishing automation standards that interface with IT.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategy and organizational growth through monthly engineering KPI reporting (Capex, Maintenance, HSE, Quality), supporting audits, and applying technical standards and operational procedures including SOPs and templates for regional/site use.
• Lead technical operations focusing on automation systems and computer system lifecycle management including control systems recipe authoring for DCS, MES, SCADA, PLC, lab applications, and control networks.
• Design, deploy, and sustain Historian configurations supporting modules, visualization, and operational expenditure (OPEX) objectives.
• Manage software change controls related to automation/system modifications, oversee backup and recovery, patch management, remote/user access, and develop or update end-to-end ITOT processes and procedures.
• Formulate and manage vendor strategies and contractual frameworks for operations and project requirements.
• Handle project engineering controls: prepare equipment and system specifications; conduct health and safety risk assessments; create testing plans for commissioning and qualification; conduct FAT/SAT and inspections; and supervise project handovers.

Essential Qualifications

• Over ten years of professional experience in engineering and IT operational technology.
• Proficiency in DeltaV DCS, Syncade MES, Siemens PLCs, PI Historian, control networks, and control protocols.
• Exceptional communication skills and stakeholder management capabilities.
• Proven leadership skills with a passion for technical mentorship and people development.

Preferred Attributes

• Strong inclination towards AI, data science, and digital innovation.
• Commitment to operational excellence and continuous improvement principles.

Additional Information

Applicants should be able to access the job location in Singapore independently as relocation support is not provided. Novartis emphasizes diversity and inclusion, supporting a welcoming work environment and offers accommodations for applicants with disabilities upon request. The company mission centers on advancing medicine through innovative and collaborative efforts and provides various professional development benefits to support employee growth.