Principal Engineer – Batch SME (FactoryTalk Batch)

Written By Dan Anthony

Location: Northeast U.S. (MA, CT, NY, VT, NH, NJ)
Department: Operations
Industry: Life Sciences / Automation

About the Company

Our client is a large national engineering and system integration firm delivering advanced automation and control solutions across Life Sciences, CPG, and other process industries.

With decades of experience and a strong presence across North America, they partner with leading manufacturers to design, standardize, and deploy scalable automation solutions in complex, regulated environments.

Life Sciences is a key growth area, supporting pharmaceutical clients in advancing digital manufacturing capabilities.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Principal Engineer – Batch SME to serve as the technical and client-facing leader for batch automation initiatives across the Life Sciences portfolio.

This is not a traditional project execution role.

You will act as a thought leader and solution architect, partnering directly with major pharmaceutical clients to:

  • Define batch strategies

  • Architect scalable solutions

  • Lead high-impact engagements

  • Shape and grow a dedicated batch practice

This role is foundational—the organization is building a practice around this individual.

What You Will Do

Client Leadership & Advisory

  • Act as a trusted advisor to pharmaceutical clients, defining batch strategies and system architectures

  • Lead discovery conversations to challenge assumptions and shape solution approaches

  • Position the organization as a Main Automation Partner (MAP) for strategic customers

Batch Architecture & SME Ownership

  • Own the design of ISA-88 compliant batch solutions using FactoryTalk Batch

  • Define and standardize:

    • Equipment models

    • Procedural models (phases, operations, unit procedures)

    • Recipe structures and reusable frameworks

  • Establish best practices across projects and clients

Solution Architecture & Proposal Leadership

  • Lead technical scoping of major engagements

  • Break down processes into phases and operations

  • Structure batch implementations for scalability

  • Support proposal development with clear solution definition

  • Partner with commercial teams to translate architecture into executable scope

Practice Development

  • Serve as the regional SME for batch capability

  • Mentor and guide a growing team (20–30 engineers over time)

  • Provide technical oversight across multiple projects

  • Define internal standards, reusable assets, and delivery methodologies

Project Execution (Selective)

  • Act as technical authority during:

    • Design phases

    • Critical decision points

    • Complex troubleshooting

    • Startup and commissioning

  • Stay hands-on—this role requires both leadership and execution capability

What You Bring

Batch & Automation Expertise

  • 8–10+ years in process automation, with strong Life Sciences focus (required)

  • Deep, hands-on expertise with FactoryTalk Batch (required)

  • Proven experience designing and implementing ISA-88 batch architectures

Strong background in:

  • Recipe design and development

  • Equipment phase programming (ControlLogix)

  • Integration with SCADA / HMI systems

Platform & Technical Depth

  • Experience with Rockwell Automation stack:

    • ControlLogix

    • FactoryTalk Batch

    • FactoryTalk View

  • Familiarity with SCADA systems (Ignition or similar)

  • Understanding of control system architectures and network design

  • Exposure to other batch platforms (e.g., DeltaV) is beneficial

GxP & Documentation Excellence (Non-Negotiable)

  • Strong experience in GxP-regulated environments

  • Ability to author design specifications from scratch

  • Experience developing functional and detailed design documents

Deep understanding of:

  • cGMP

  • GAMP 5

  • 21 CFR Part 11

Client-Facing Leadership

  • Proven ability to lead technical discussions with clients

  • Ability to challenge requirements and propose better solutions

  • Operates as a consultative partner, not just an implementer

  • Comfortable defining solutions in ambiguous environments

Execution & Delivery

  • Experience supporting:

    • System design, configuration, and testing

    • Startup and commissioning in live manufacturing environments

  • Strong troubleshooting capability in high-pressure environments

What Sets This Role Apart

  • Opportunity to build and shape a batch automation practice

  • Direct engagement with major pharmaceutical clients on high-visibility initiatives

  • Operate at the intersection of:

    • Technical depth

    • Client leadership

    • Commercial impact

This role is ideal for someone who is:

  • A true Batch SME

  • Ready to step into a visible, influential leadership role

  • Motivated to build, not just execute

Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive base salary aligned to market for senior batch SMEs

  • Performance-based bonuses including:

    • Company performance

    • Project performance

    • “Above & Beyond” incentives

Additional Benefits

  • 401(k) with immediate vesting

  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage

  • Generous PTO and paid holidays

  • Ongoing training and professional development

Work Authorization

Our client welcomes applications from candidates with U.S. work authorization, including H-1B transfers.

For candidates aligned with long-term business needs, there is also a pathway toward employment-based permanent residency (I-140 sponsorship).

How to Apply

If you’re ready to take your career to the next level and help shape the future of Life Sciences automation:

📩 Send your CV to:
candidate@xperiorglobal.com

Dan Anthony https://www.artifexrevco.com
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Project Manager - Life Sciences