Automation Subject Matter Expert (SME)

Automation Subject Matter Expert (SME)

Location: Belgium (on-site, with limited hybrid flexibility)

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced Automation Subject Matter Expert (SME) to strengthen our clients Automation team and support all manufacturing sites in Belgium.

This role plays a key part in driving automation excellence across the business, ensuring that all systems, designs, and engineering practices align with corporate standards, budgets, and project timelines.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as the technical authority for automation across assigned buildings and process areas.
• Ensure all automation deliverables meet quality, safety, and regulatory (GMP/HSE) standards within the approved budget and schedule.
• Collaborate closely with Automation Integrators, project teams, and other engineering disciplines (Process, QA/QV, Maintenance, Utilities, E&I, etc.).
• Lead risk identification, mitigation planning, and reporting for automation-related workstreams.
• Participate in system commissioning, FAT/SAT, and validation activities.
• Ensure smooth handovers to operations teams, including training and post-implementation support.
• Review and approve automation design documents, functional specifications, and testing protocols.
• Support the development and maintenance of automation libraries, HMI philosophies, recipe structures, alarm and reporting strategies.
• Manage automation vendors and integrators during design, execution, and operational phases.
• Participate in the continuous improvement of automation standards and engineering practices.
• Contribute to 24/7 automation support (in collaboration with integrators) for assigned systems.
• Maintain detailed documentation throughout the system lifecycle.

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years of experience in process automation within a manufacturing or life sciences environment.
• Proven track record leading or supporting large-scale engineering projects.
• Solid understanding of automation system integration, design, and commissioning.
• Experience working under GMP and HSE guidelines.
• Strong communication and leadership skills, capable of influencing and supporting cross-functional teams.
• Ability to work effectively in fast-paced, complex project environments.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and stakeholder management capabilities.
• Fluent in English and French (both written and spoken).
• Willingness to travel occasionally as required.
• On-site presence required; hybrid working available after onboarding.

This is a long contract opportunity offering flexible hybrid working!

If this is you, please do not delay in applying!