Freelance Automation Project Manager – Pharma
Description
This mission centers around a critical Windows obsolescence project within a highly regulated pharmaceutical manufacturing environment. The objective is to manage the replacement and upgrade of legacy Windows-based automation systems—ensuring continuous compliance with industry standards and minimal disruption to manufacturing operations. The role involves coordinating updates to automation infrastructure while maintaining stringent quality and regulatory controls. The project follows a Waterfall methodology, requiring detailed planning and strict adherence to timelines.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
* Lead and coordinate the Windows obsolescence automation project from initiation through successful delivery.
* Manage cross-functional teams including automation engineers, IT specialists, and quality assurance to ensure seamless system upgrades.
* Oversee integration and migration of automation systems such as Siemens TIA Portal, HMI Siemens PLC, and SCADA platforms to newer, supported Windows environments.
* Ensure all changes comply with pharmaceutical manufacturing regulations and complex quality standards.
* Manage project risks, issues, and change controls, maintaining clear communication with stakeholders.
* Prepare comprehensive project documentation, status reports, and technical specifications following Waterfall principles.
* Facilitate on-site coordination with vendors and internal teams to guarantee smooth project execution.
* Support testing, validation, and commissioning activities to confirm operational stability post-migration.
Candidate Requirements
Essential Experience & Skills:
* 5+ years managing automation projects, preferably in pharmaceutical or highly regulated manufacturing sectors.
* Strong expertise in automation platforms, including Siemens TIA Portal and HMI Siemens PLC.
* Experience with SCADA systems and PLC programming; Scalda PLC experience (notably for Panorama) is a plus.
* Proven experience managing Windows environment upgrades or obsolescence projects tied to automation.
* Solid understanding of regulatory compliance and quality validation in manufacturing.
* Ability to quickly adapt and work onsite within a fast-paced, highly regulated environment.
* Fluent in English; French language skills are a bonus.
Desirable:
* Prior pharmaceutical industry experience.
* Familiarity with Waterfall project delivery methodologies.
* Awareness of cybersecurity and data integrity best practices in automation system migrations.
Contract Type: Freelance
Location: Brussels
Start Date: ASAP
Contract Length: 12+ Months
Onsite Policy: 1-2 Days Per Week
Languages: English (French is a bonus)