Automation Strategy Lead: OT/SCADA & DCS Expert

AstraZeneca; Gaithersburg (MD); On-site; USD 140,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

AstraZeneca in Gaithersburg, MD is seeking a senior engineering leader to provide expert technical leadership across OT/automation domains. You will guide delivery from design through commissioning, collaborating with internal stakeholders and external partners to meet compliance standards.

The role requires 10+ years in engineering, strong SCADA/PLC or DCS experience, and a proven ability to translate business needs into technical strategies.

Qualifications

• Fluent English required.
• Subject Matter Expert in SCADA/PLC or DCS, including specification, procurement, installation, start-up, and commissioning.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related discipline (5+ years considered in lieu).
• 10+ years of field experience.
• Excellent communication skills, able to engage honestly and influence with internal and external leaders.
• Experience in IT/OT architectures for manufacturing, IT integration, and OT cybersecurity.
• Experience with Engineering standards development and governance.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert technical leadership across engineering domains and deliver advanced technical solutions.
• Act as SME for OT/automation systems, supporting complex projects with compliance.
• Lead delivery from specification/design through commissioning and stabilization; collaborate with stakeholders and partners.
• Translate business needs into technical strategies, influencing design choices and implementation approaches.
• Guide application of internal and industry standards (URS, DQ/FAT/SAT, GMP) through project lifecycle.
• Mentor engineers to develop capability across sites.
• Drive technical improvements and standardization across the network.
• Ensure safety, health, environment (SHE) and regulatory compliance and risk assessments.
• Energize teams to explore new digital solutions driving business value.
• May line manage a team.

Skills

Fluent English

SCADA/PLC or DCS expertise

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Job description

AstraZeneca in Gaithersburg, MD is seeking a senior engineering leader to provide expert technical leadership across OT/automation domains. You will guide delivery from design through commissioning, collaborating with internal stakeholders and external partners to meet compliance standards.

The role requires 10+ years in engineering, strong SCADA/PLC or DCS experience, and a proven ability to translate business needs into technical strategies.