Leader – Smart Manufacturing

Chitkara University; Rajpura; On-site; INR 350,000 - 700,000; Full time

Job summary

Chitkara University invites applications for Leader – Smart Manufacturing, a senior role focused on Industry 4.0, automation, and digital transformation. The incumbent will drive collaborations with industry, government, and global tech partners to create advanced manufacturing ecosystems and talent pipelines.

The role requires a PhD in a manufacturing-related field and 15+ years of leadership experience, with deep knowledge of modern manufacturing systems and sustainable production models.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Manufacturing/Industrial/Mechanical Engineering or related domain (Preferably)
• 15+ years of strong experience in industry and/or manufacturing transformation leadership roles.
• Proven expertise in industry engagement, innovation ecosystems, and strategic growth.
• Deep understanding of modern manufacturing systems and sustainable production models.

Responsibilities

• Lead industry-aligned initiatives in: Smart factories, Robotics, AI-driven manufacturing, IoT, Digital Twins, Automation.
• Establish partnerships with manufacturing companies, government bodies, and global technology organizations.
• Enable high-impact outcomes through: Live industry projects & internships
• Joint innovation labs / Centers of Excellence
• Collaborative research and technology transfer
• Mentor and guide high-performing faculty teams with a practice-driven approach.
• Drive new program expansion aligned with industrial workforce needs and emerging manufacturing trends.
• Represent the institution as a thought leader in national and global manufacturing forums.

Skills

Industry engagement

Innovation ecosystems

Strategic growth

Manufacturing systems

Sustainable production

Education

PhD in Manufacturing/Industrial/Mechanical Engineering

Job description

Leader – Smart Manufacturing (Industry 4.0 & Transformation Role)

Role Overview

Chitkara University invites applications for the position of Leader – Smart Manufacturing, a senior role focused on building a future-ready ecosystem in advanced manufacturing, Industry 4.0, automation, and digital transformation.

This position will drive strong industry collaboration, applied innovation, and strategic partnerships to develop next-generation manufacturing talent and impact-driven programs.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead industry-aligned initiatives in:
• Smart factories, Robotics, AI-driven manufacturing, IoT, Digital Twins, Automation.
• Establish partnerships with manufacturing companies, government bodies, and global technology organizations.
• Enable high-impact outcomes through:
• Live industry projects & internships
• Joint innovation labs / Centers of Excellence
• Collaborative research and technology transfer
• Mentor and guide high-performing faculty teams with a practice-driven approach.
• Drive new program expansion aligned with industrial workforce needs and emerging manufacturing trends.
• Represent the institution as a thought leader in national and global manufacturing forums.

Preferred Profile

• Ph.D. in Manufacturing/Industrial/Mechanical Engineering or related domain (Preferably)
• 15+ years of strong experience in industry and/or manufacturing transformation leadership roles.
• Proven expertise in industry engagement, innovation ecosystems, and strategic growth.
• Deep understanding of modern manufacturing systems and sustainable production models.