Head of Automation

Head of Automation

Portsmouth, NH

Onsite

As the Head of Automation, you will provide strategic leadership for site automation systems, including process control systems, manufacturing execution systems, and operational technology. This is an exciting opportunity to shape automation strategy, lead high-impact initiatives, and drive operational excellence in support of life-changing therapies.

What you will get

• An agile career and dynamic working culture.
• An inclusive and ethical workplace.
• Compensation programs that recognize high performance.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Opportunities to lead strategic site-wide initiatives.
• Exposure to cross-functional and global collaboration.
• Professional growth and leadership development opportunities.

What you will do

• Lead and develop a high-performing automation team supporting process control, manufacturing execution, and operational technology systems.
• Drive automation strategy to improve system reliability, production efficiency, and operational performance.
• Partner with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and IT teams to deliver automation solutions that support business objectives.
• Lead technology transfer projects and ensure successful integration of new processes, systems, and technologies.
• Champion continuous improvement initiatives that reduce downtime, improve productivity, and optimize manufacturing operations.
• Oversee automation project budgets, resource planning, and long-term roadmap development.
• Use data, root cause analysis, and performance metrics to identify opportunities and implement sustainable improvements.

What we are looking for

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, Electrical, Computer, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical field; advanced degree preferred.
• Significant leadership experience supporting automation systems within biopharmaceutical, pharmaceutical, or biotechnology manufacturing environments.
• Strong experience leading complex projects and cross-functional teams.
• Knowledge of process control systems, manufacturing execution systems, and operational technology environments.
• Understanding of cGMP-regulated manufacturing and quality requirements.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Proven ability to develop, mentor, and lead high-performing technical teams.

About Lonza

At Lonza, our people are our greatest strength. With 30+ sites across five continents, our globally connected teams work together every day to manufacture the medicines of tomorrow. Our core values of Collaboration, Accountability, Excellence, Passion and Integrity reflect who we are and how we work together. Everyone’s ideas, big or small, have the potential to improve millions of lives, and that’s the kind of work we want you to be part of.

Innovation thrives when people from all backgrounds bring their unique perspectives to the table. At Lonza, we offer equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you’re ready to help turn our customers’ breakthrough ideas into viable therapies, we look forward to welcoming you on board.

Ready to shape the future of life sciences? Apply now.