System Architect Lead(Process Automation, Life science Manufacturing) (remote)

Cognizant; Saint Paul (MN); Remote; USD 100,000 - 209,000; Full time

Job summary

A global technology leader is seeking a System Architect Lead to define and design automation system architectures in a flexible remote position. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in Engineering and 10+ years of experience in automation architecture within the pharmaceutical industry. The position offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance

Paid Time Off

401(k) plan

Paid Parental Leave

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Chemical, Automation, or Computer Science.
• 10+ years of experience in automation architecture in pharma/biotech.
• Expertise in designing and integrating DCS, PLC, MES, SCADA.

Responsibilities

• Define and design automation system architectures.
• Author and review architecture documents.
• Lead creation of secure automation infrastructure.

Skills

Strategic thinker

Problem-solving skills

Risk management

Cross-functional collaboration

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

10+ years in automation architecture

Tools

DCS

PLC

MES

SCADA

Data historian systems

Job description

Cognizant Technology Solutions is seeking System Architect Lead who could join our team of professionals in a permanent role.

Overview

We strive to provide flexibility wherever possible. Based on this role’s business requirements, this is a remote position open to qualified applicants in the United States. Regardless of your working arrangement, we are here to support a healthy work-life balance though our various wellbeing programs. The working arrangements for this role are accurate as of the date of posting. This may change based on the project you’re engaged in, as well as business and client requirements. Rest assured; we will always be clear about role expectations.

Role Responsibilities

• Responsible for defining, designing, and overseeing the implementation of automation system architectures across manufacturing environments. This role ensures alignment with enterprise digital strategy, GMP compliance, and integration across OT and IT layers.
• Author and review architecture documents including URS, FS, SDS, and validation protocols.
• Present architecture options and trade-offs to business and technical leadership.
• Develop high-level and detailed design specifications, interface definitions, and system workflows.
• Lead the creation of secure, scalable, and compliant automation infrastructure.
• Define and maintain the reference architecture for automation systems including DCS, PLC, MES, SCADA, and data historians.
• Ensure seamless integration between systems.
• Develop threat models and perform risk assessments for proposed solutions.
• Guide system integrators and vendors on architectural standards and interface protocols.
• Contribute to digital transformation initiatives such as Pharma 4.0, Factory of the Future, and cloud-based analytics.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and recommend adoption strategies for automation platforms.

Skills

• Strategic thinker with a proactive and ownership-driven mindset.
• Skilled in cross-functional collaboration, especially with DCS, MES, digital, IT and process engineering teams.
• Advanced problem-solving and risk management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to define and enforce architectural standards across teams.
• Proficient in writing and reviewing specifications, protocols, and validation documents.
• Ability to drive continuous improvement and innovation in automation practices.
• Comfortable presenting to executive stakeholders and facilitating technical workshops.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and delegate effectively.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Chemical, Automation, Computer Science) or related field.
• 10+ years of experience in automation architecture within the pharmaceutical or biotech industry, preferably in API/bulk manufacturing, monoclonal antibody, or bioconjugate environments.
• Expertise in designing and integrating DCS, PLC, MES, SCADA, and data historian systems.
• Experience with cybersecurity frameworks and risk assessment methodologies.
• Clear understanding of automation compliance requirements, including GMP, GAMP and validation principles.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and drive technical decision-making.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to lead cross-functional teams and guide system integrators.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and stakeholders in a dynamic project environment.

Salary and Other Compensation

Applications will be accepted until Oct 15 2025.

The annual salary for this position is between $ 100,470 K -$ 208,500K depending on experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.

This position is also eligible for Cognizant’s discretionary annual incentive program, based on performance and subject to the terms of Cognizant’s applicable plans

Benefits

Cognizant offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements:

• Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance
• Paid holidays plus Paid Time Off
• 401(k) plan and contributions
• Long-term/Short-term Disability
• Paid Parental Leave
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Disclaimer

The salary, other compensation, and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.