Automation & Engineering Lead (Expatriate) at Bridge Talent Management

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Automation & Engineering Lead (Expatriate) to provide strategic and hands-on leadership within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This role will oversee engineering operations across multiple production lines, ensuring optimal equipment performance, reliability, and efficiency.

The successful candidate will play a critical role in driving operational excellence, minimizing downtime, and implementing automation and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance overall plant productivity.

Key Responsibilities

Engineering Leadership & Plant Reliability

• Lead and manage the engineering function across multiple production lines.
• Ensure high equipment reliability and plant availability through effective maintenance strategies.
• Implement best practices in preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance.

Automation & Technical Expertise

• Provide advanced expertise in electrical, instrumentation, and automation systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation and equipment issues.
• Maintain automation backups and accurate technical documentation.

Maintenance Optimization

• Drive predictive and proactive maintenance strategies to maximize uptime.
• Improve key metrics such as MTTR and MTBF.
• Maintain detailed maintenance and performance records.

Operational Performance & Efficiency

• Support production teams to achieve efficiency targets (85%+).
• Identify bottlenecks and implement engineering solutions to improve throughput.
• Ensure minimal process wastage and optimal resource utilization.

Root Cause Analysis & Continuous Improvement

• Conduct root cause analysis (RCA) for breakdowns and process failures.
• Implement corrective and preventive actions.
• Champion continuous improvement initiatives including Kaizen and process optimization.

Spares & Vendor Management

• Oversee engineering spares inventory to ensure uninterrupted operations.
• Manage vendor relationships and support supplier evaluation and development.

Project Management & Plant Development

• Lead engineering projects including upgrades, automation improvements, and new installations.
• Ensure timely delivery of projects within budget and technical specifications.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical, Electronic, Instrumentation, or Automation Engineering.
• 8–12 years’ experience in FMCG manufacturing or beverage bottling operations.
• Strong hands-on experience with automated production lines (bottling experience is an added advantage).
• Proven expertise in automation systems, instrumentation, and electrical troubleshooting.
• Experience in predictive maintenance and reliability engineering.