Automation Team Lead / Project Lead (February 2026 start)
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Language: French (Professional), English (Fluent)
Sector: Life Sciences / Pharmaceutical / Industrial Automation
Contract Type: Long-Term Contract starting in February 202
Job title: Automation Lead / Project Manager (Pharmaceutical Manufacturing)
Exciting opportunity for an experienced Automation Lead at a leading pharmaceutical company based in Brussels, offering competitive benefits, flexible working hours and hybrid work opportunities. The role will is open for contractors who are available to start in February 2026.
The Company:
Our client is a well-established life science automation consultancy supporting leading pharmaceutical clients across Belgium and Europe.
Known for delivering complex automation, MES, and digital manufacturing projects, the company partners with global organisations on large CAPEX and transformation initiatives.
Operating in a fast-growing consultancy environment, you will play a key role in leading automation teams, managing multiple client projects, and contributing to the company's technical and strategic development in Belgium.
Automation Lead Role:
As Automation Team Lead / Project Manager, you will be responsible for end-to-end delivery of automation and digital manufacturing projects, while also leading and mentoring a team of automation engineers and consultants.
You will act as a technical and managerial interface between clients, internal teams, and external vendors ensuring projects are delivered on time, on budget, and in full regulatory compliance.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Team Management
* Build, lead, and develop a multidisciplinary automation team (PLC, SCADA, MES, IT/OT).
* Provide technical guidance, coaching, and performance management to engineers.
* Support recruitment, onboarding, and capability development within the automation team.
Project & Program Management
* Lead complex automation and MES projects from concept, design, and implementation through commissioning and validation.
* Manage project planning, budgeting, risk, scope, and stakeholder communication.
* Oversee CAPEX projects ranging from €6M to €10M+, depending on client scope.
* Coordinate multi-site and cross-functional teams (Engineering, Quality, IT/OT, Maintenance).
Automation & Technical Oversight
* Provide high-level technical oversight for:
* PLC & DCS systems (Siemens, Rockwell, others)
* SCADA and HMI platforms
* MES and digital manufacturing solutions
* Ensure compliance with GMP / cGMP, data integrity, validation (IQ/OQ/PQ), and cybersecurity requirements.
* Review and approve technical documentation (URS, FDS, SDS, FAT, SAT).
Client & Consultancy Responsibilities
* Act as a trusted technical advisor for clients in regulated industries.
* Translate business and regulatory needs into robust technical solutions.
* Support proposal development, client presentations, and presales activities when required.
* Maintain long-term client relationships through delivery excellence.
Essential Requirements
Education
* Engineering degree (Automation, Electrical, Industrial, Mechanical, or similar).
Experience
* 6–10+ years of experience in industrial automation and project management.
* Proven background in life sciences, pharmaceutical, or regulated manufacturing environments.
* Demonstrated experience leading teams (10–25+ engineers or contractors).
Technical Expertise
* PLC & DCS systems (strong Siemens experience preferred).
* SCADA and MES platforms.
* IT/OT integration, networking, and cybersecurity concepts.
* Strong understanding of validation, data integrity, and compliance frameworks.
Project Management
* End-to-end project delivery experience using structured methodologies.
* Budget ownership and financial control.
* Vendor and subcontractor management.
Languages
* French: Professional level (mandatory)
* English: Fluent
* Dutch is a plus.
Why Should You Apply?
This is an exciting opportunity for any experienced Automation Lead that is looking to progress their career with a highly rewarding company offering b.
Apply below or email your CV direct to f.hyde@x4lifesciences.co.uk