Director of Engineering

NES Fircroft; Haarlem; On-site; EUR 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading pharmaceutical manufacturer in Haarlem is looking for a Head of Engineering & Maintenance. This role requires overseeing engineering operations, ensuring compliance and equipment reliability while managing a high-performing team. Candidates should have over 10 years of leadership experience in a regulated industry, preferably in pharmaceuticals, with expertise in CAPEX/OPEX management. Strong project management skills and fluency in English are essential. This is a temporary position for 3 months starting ASAP.

Qualifications

• 10+ years leading engineering teams in a regulated industry.
• Strong background in CAPEX/OPEX management.
• Experience in pharmaceutical or chemical production with knowledge of GMP and EH&S preferred.
• Excellent project management and communication skills.
• Fluent in English; Dutch is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop Engineering & Maintenance teams fostering accountability and improvement.
• Define and execute engineering strategy, managing budgets and resources.
• Ensure equipment and utilities are maintained in compliance with standards.
• Drive process optimization, maintenance excellence, and reliability improvements across the site.
• Lead the introduction of new assets, equipment, and systems following approved change control processes.
• Collaborate with Quality, Operations, Supply Chain, and EHS to deliver aligned engineering solutions.
• Share global best practices and support cross-site engineering initiatives.
• Implement new technologies and drive Continuous Improvement using Operational Excellence principles.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Continuous Improvement

CAPEX/OPEX management

Regulatory knowledge

English

Job description

We are looking for a strategic and hands‑on Head of Engineering & Maintenance to lead engineering operations at our Haarlem pharmaceutical manufacturing site. You will ensure reliable, compliant equipment performance, drive engineering excellence, and lead a high‑performing technical team. This role partners closely with Quality, Operations, Supply Chain, and EHS to support world‑class production standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the Engineering & Maintenance teams, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Define and execute the engineering strategy; manage departmental budgets and resources.
• Ensure all equipment, facilities, and utilities are maintained safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with GMP, FDA/EMA, and internal standards.
• Drive process optimization, maintenance excellence, and reliability improvements across the site.
• Lead the introduction of new assets, equipment, and systems following approved change control processes.
• Manage suppliers, contractors, and external partners, ensuring adherence to Teva standards and agreements.
• Collaborate with Quality, Operations, Supply Chain, and EHS to deliver aligned engineering solutions.
• Share global best practices and support cross‑site engineering initiatives.
• Implement new technologies and drive continuous improvement using Operational Excellence principles.
• Ensure all engineering processes meet regulatory, quality, and safety requirements; participate in audits and inspections.
• Lead engineering projects, ensuring delivery on time, within scope and budget, with clear milestones and KPIs.
• Build and develop a high‑performing engineering team through coaching, performance management, and professional development.

Who Are We Looking For?

• 10+ years leading engineering teams in a regulated industry.
• Strong background in CAPEX/OPEX management.
• Experience in pharmaceutical or chemical production; knowledge of GMP and EH&S is preferred.
• Expertise in maintenance, facilities, and utility systems.
• Strong understanding of Continuous Improvement and Good Engineering Practices.
• Proven leadership and team‑development capabilities.
• Excellent project management and communication skills.
• Fluent in English; Dutch is an advantage.

This role is initially for 3 months ideally starting ASAP.