Automation Implementation Owner (Freelance)

The Global Automation Implementation Lead (FRENCH SPEAKER) is responsible for the end-to-end delivery of FlexLink (COPA-DATA Zenon) automation projects across multiple Animal Health manufacturing sites worldwide.

This role combines technical leadership and project execution responsibilities, acting as the single point of accountability for project scope, technical solution design, implementation strategy, governance, vendor management, and successful deployment.

The position serves as the bridge between business stakeholders, site teams, engineering groups, and System Integrators, ensuring that automation solutions are delivered on time, within budget, compliant with global standards, and aligned with operational objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead global automation implementation projects from concept through commissioning and handover.
• Define project execution strategy, timelines, milestones, resources, and budgets.
• Manage project scope, risks, issues, and change requests.
• Ensure successful delivery across multiple manufacturing sites.

Technical Solution Ownership

• Own technical solution architecture and implementation approach.
• Configure and deploy FlexLink (COPA-DATA Zenon) solutions where required.
• Ensure compliance with global automation standards, architecture principles, and cybersecurity requirements.
• Review and approve technical deliverables produced by System Integrators.

Systems Implementation

• Lead deployment of:Energy Management Systems (EMS)
• Building Management Systems (BMS)
• Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE)
• Process Control applications
• Oversee data modeling, template configuration, and communication architecture.
• Ensure successful integration with OPC UA, MES, Historian, ERP, and enterprise platforms.
• Manage System Integrators and external delivery partners.
• Lead RFP, vendor selection, contract negotiations, and milestone reviews.
• Coordinate global, regional, and local stakeholders.
• Facilitate steering committee meetings and executive updates.

Compliance, Quality & Validation

• Ensure adherence to GxP, validation, cybersecurity, and change-control requirements.
• Support FAT, SAT, commissioning, qualification, and go-live activities.
• Review and approve documentation including:DSD
• SDS
• Validation packages
• Test protocols
• Change controls

Financial & Governance Management

• Manage project budgets, forecasts, expenditures, and reporting.
• Prepare governance reviews and FEL gate approvals.
• Track KPIs and project performance metrics.
• Escalate critical risks and drive mitigation plans.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent.
• 5+ years of industrial automation and project delivery experience.
• Experience implementing SCADA, DCS, or Manufacturing Automation systems.
• Experience within pharmaceutical, animal health, biotechnology, food, or highly regulated manufacturing environments.
• Hands‑on knowledge of COPA-DATA Zenon or equivalent SCADA platforms.

Technical Expertise

• SCADA / DCS platforms
• EMS, BMS, OEE and Process Control solutions
• OPC UA integration
• MES and Historian systems
• Automation architecture and standards
• GAMP and validation methodologies
• FAT, SAT and Commissioning
• Technical Decision Making
• Stakeholder Management
• Resource Planning
• Strategic Thinking
• Cross-functional Collaboration
• Results‑driven Execution

Consultant / Freelance Assignment (Project-Based Contract)

FRENCH IS A MUST

This position is offered as an independent contractor/freelance engagement supporting the Global Automation Implementation Program across the Animal Health manufacturing network.

• Contract Type: Freelance / Independent Consultant
• Engagement Model: Project-based assignment
• Duration: Initial 24 month contract (with potential extension based on project roadmap and business needs)
• Location: Remote preferred, with periodic travel to manufacturing sites in Americas.
• Travel Requirement: Approximately 20-40% depending on implementation phase, FAT/SAT, commissioning, and go‑live activities
• Start Date: Jan 27
• Availability: Full-time preferred; high‑availability contractors will be prioritized

Please note: This is a project-based consulting engagement and does not constitute a permanent employment position. Candidates must be legally authorized to operate as independent contractors and invoice services in their country of residence.