Chief Engineer - Automation (Based in Bangkok, Thailand)

RP International; Singapore; On-site; SGD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global company in the food industry is seeking a Chief Engineer to lead digital transformation and automation in their facility. The role involves overseeing the implementation of advanced technologies, managing a high-performance engineering team, and driving World Class Manufacturing initiatives. Candidates should have over 15 years of experience in industrial automation and a strong leadership background. Willingness to travel up to 60% is required.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in industrial automation.
• Experience implementing Industry 4.0 technologies.
• Strong leadership experience in managing engineering teams.

Responsibilities

• Oversee implementation of Lighthouse 4.0 projects.
• Lead digitization of manufacturing processes.
• Develop preventive and predictive maintenance plans.

Skills

Leadership

Digital transformation

Automation

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering

Advanced degree

Tools

Cloud-based maintenance systems

AI analytics

Smart sensors

Job description

Relocating to Bangkok Thailand

Our client is a global leader in the food industry, renowned for its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Currently they are looking for the Chief Engineer in a Lighthouse Automation 4.0-driven facility globally. you will lead the digital transformation of the plant’s engineering and maintenance operations.

This role will combine Industry 4.0 transformation with the principles of World Class Manufacturing (WCM) to improve efficiency, sustainability, product quality, and cost management while enhancing production flexibility and operational agility

You will manage the integration of advanced automation, data systems, and smart technologies to enhance productivity, sustainability, and food safety in food production. You’ll be responsible for developing a high-performance engineering team and a proactive maintenance culture in line with Industry 4.0 principles.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the implementation of Lighthouse 4.0 projects such as IoT-enabled machinery, real-time monitoring systems, predictive analytics, and robotics.
• Lead cross-functional collaboration to digitize manufacturing processes, utilities, and maintenance operations.
• Integrate MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems) and SCADA systems for seamless data flow and process control.
• Use AI/data analytics for failure prediction, energy optimization, and quality improvement.
• Develop and execute preventive and predictive maintenance plans using digital CMMS tools.
• Ensure equipment efficiency and uptime through smart monitoring and automation diagnostics.
• Manage installation, calibration, and upgrades of automated production lines (mixers, fryers, packaging).
• Build and lead a future-ready engineering team skilled in automation and digital tools.
• Champion a continuous improvement culture using Lean, TPM, and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Capital Project Management: Oversee the planning, execution, and optimization of automation-
• Oversee the planning, execution, and optimization of automation-related capital projects. Ensure all projects adhere to technical, quality, regulatory, and budgetary requirements while promoting WCM standard
• World Class Manufacturing (WCM) Integration: Apply WCM principles to drive automation-related initiatives, ensuring alignment with Lean Manufacturing, Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), and Zero Defects philosophies. Establish processes that enhance efficiency, reduce downtime, and improve overall equipment effectiveness (OEE)
• Maintain compliance with Thai food safety, environmental, and industrial regulations.

Key Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Extensive experience (15+ years) in industrial automation with proven success in
• Implementing Industry 4.0 technologies in manufacturing environments.
• Experience in driving World Class Manufacturing (WCM) initiatives, including Lean
• Manufacturing, TPM, and Zero Defects.
• Strong leadership experience in managing engineering teams and cross-functional projects.
• Familiarity with cloud-based maintenance systems, AI analytics, and smart sensors.
• Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and digital transformation mindset

You should possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to solve problems effectively. Demonstrating intellectual curiosity, sound professional judgment, and the ability to work independently with a proactive mindset is essential. Willingness to travel overseas up to 60% is required.

Please send your CVs with Microsoft word format to Siriwan Young, email: [e-mail]

Your interest will be treated in strict confidence.

Company Reg No.: 11S2959 I License No. R24124300