Senior Engineer, Mechatronics (Packaging Operations)
Location: Leiden, The Netherlands
Working Model: Fully On-site
Contract: Full-time
Start Date: January 2027 or sooner
About the Role
We are looking for an experienced Senior Mechatronics Engineer to join a high-performing manufacturing and engineering team supporting critical packaging operations within a regulated production environment.
In this role, you will serve as the technical expert for complex mechatronics systems, ensuring maximum equipment reliability, performance, and uptime across state-of-the‑art packaging and labelling lines. The position combines hands‑on troubleshooting, continuous improvement, equipment ownership, and cross‑functional project leadership.
You will play a key role in supporting the 24/7 manufacturing operation by driving sustainable technical solutions, leading root cause investigations, and implementing improvements that enhance operational performance.
Key Responsibilities
- Act as the subject matter expert for mechatronics systems across packaging and manufacturing operations.
- Provide second-line technical support for complex equipment issues involving mechanical, electrical, and automation systems.
- Lead structured troubleshooting and root cause investigations to identify sustainable solutions.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on equipment reliability, efficiency, and uptime.
- Serve as System Owner for critical packaging and manufacturing assets.
- Support the deployment of new products, equipment upgrades, and engineering projects across packaging lines.
- Independently plan and execute maintenance and engineering activities within assigned projects.
- Develop test protocols, perform technical evaluations, and prepare technical assessment reports.
- Collaborate closely with cross‑functional stakeholders including Manufacturing, Quality Assurance, Validation, Automation, Digital, Supply Chain, and Equipment Engineering teams.
- Lead technical investigations and improvement projects involving multiple departments and external vendors.
- Coach and support maintenance technicians in resolving complex technical issues.
- Participate in an on‑call support rotation for 24/7 production operations.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
- Minimum of 7 years of relevant engineering experience.
- At least 5 years of experience within a manufacturing or operations environment.
- Strong hands‑on troubleshooting experience with packaging equipment.
- Solid technical knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and automation systems.
- Experience as a System Owner or technical lead for critical production equipment.
- Proven background in Lean Maintenance, Continuous Improvement, and operational excellence.
- Experience identifying, prioritising, and implementing technical performance improvements through structured problem‑solving methodologies.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience within a regulated industry such as Pharmaceutical, Biotechnology, Medical Devices, or Food Manufacturing.
- GMP experience is highly preferred.
- Familiarity with industry regulations and standards such as GMP, OSHA, and EPA.
- Personal Skills
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving capabilities.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Ability to lead cross‑functional investigations and improvement initiatives.
- Comfortable operating in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.
- Natural coach and mentor for technical teams.
- Fluent in English, both written and spoken. Basic Dutch is advantageous.