Lead Automation Engineer

Xperior Global is a company operating in the Life Sciences and Automation industry, seeking a Lead Automation Engineer to act as the technical lead across various projects. The role involves hands-on ownership of system design, leading technical discussions with clients, and mentoring junior engineers while managing project portfolios.

Responsibilities:

• Lead the design, configuration, and testing of continuous and batch control systems
• Serve as the technical authority across projects
• Maintain hands-on involvement in: PLC programming, HMI / SCADA development, System integration and troubleshooting, Mentor junior engineers and guide engineering direction, Stay close to the code—this is not a hands-off leadership role
• Manage a portfolio of projects alongside Project Managers
• Support: Scope definition, Scheduling and budgeting, Change order identification and justification, Ensure successful delivery across multiple engagements, Support startup, commissioning, and troubleshooting
• Act as a primary technical interface with clients
• Lead technical discussions, presentations, and working sessions
• Manage expectations and deliver difficult or complex messages when needed
• Operate with a service-provider mindset and strong accountability
• Partner with sales teams on new project pursuits
• Contribute to proposals including: Solution approach, Scope definition, Feasibility validation, Help position the organization as a trusted automation advisor
• Mentor and develop junior and mid-level engineers
• Promote knowledge sharing and best practices
• Contribute to building a strong technical culture

Requirements:

• Experience in process automation and controls engineering
• Strong background in Life Sciences (Must)
• Proven experience operating as a technical lead
• Deep experience with Rockwell Automation stack: Studio 5000 / ControlLogix
• FactoryTalk (View, Batch, Historian)
• Experience with SCADA platforms (Ignition strongly preferred)
• Exposure to additional platforms (Siemens, DeltaV, etc.) is a plus
• Experience with PLC, HMI, SCADA system development
• Batch and continuous process control
• System integration and SQL/database connectivity
• Knowledge of: ISA S88 / S95
• GAMP 5
• cGMP
• 21 CFR Part 11
• Experience supporting startup and commissioning in live environments
• Proven experience working directly with clients
• Comfortable with: Presentations
• Managing expectations
• Navigating challenging conversations
• Ability to contribute to sales efforts and project acquisition