Automation Manager

The Site & Service Automation Manager is responsible for leading and coordinating all field-related automation activities within projects and services. As a key figure within the Automation, Integration & Monitoring (AIM) division, the manager bridges site execution with product development, ensuring that automation technologies developed by the IT/OT Department (under the Chief Product Officer) are implemented effectively on-site. The role covers both project execution (in close alignment with Process & Start-Up Managers) and operational services (in coordination with the O&O Manager), managing a team of automation engineers responsible for programming, commissioning, functional testing, and post-installation optimization of PLC/SCADA systems. Duties & Responsibilities: Strategic Execution & Collaboration Serve as the link between on-site automation execution and the IT/OT development team under the CPO. Provide continuous feedback and recommendations to the IT/OT team to improve automation tools and platforms based on real-world site experiences Ensure alignment with standardized technologies, guidelines, and best practices defined under the Product Department. Project Planning & Coordination Plan and allocate automation engineers across project phases (engineering, FAT, commissioning, optimization) Collaborate with Process Engineers and Start-Up Managers to translate functional process logic into automation code and ensure operational integrity. Organize and participate in Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) and on-site functional testing with internal stakeholders and clients. Oversee automation engineers' planning and logistics, including travel scheduling and resource availability. Service & O&M Integration Coordinate automation support for services and recurrent business activities in collaboration with the Operations & Optimization (O&O) team Manage short-term mobilizations for troubleshooting, optimization, or revamping of automation systems on operational plants Operational Excellence & Continuous Improvement Ensure high-quality execution of automation work onsite: code deployment, interface testing, system validation, and optimization Lead the automation team in functional commissioning and fine-tuning of systems to meet client expectations and project performance guarantees Track lessons learned and feed them back into the AIM and Product teams for future improvements and standardization Leadership duties & responsibilities Reporting to the D&B Project Management & Construction Director and to the related regions in a matrix approach. Leadership in a Matrix Structure: Cross-Functional Collaboration: interact regularly with these leaders to ensure their efforts are aligned with broader organizational goals. This involves fostering open communication and collaboration across departments to address challenges and unlock new opportunities. Strategic Guidance: provide direction and set priorities to ensure that each function not only excels in its domain but also contributes to the overall success of the organization. Continuous Improvement: lead initiatives to optimize processes, ensure consistency, and promote innovation across all functions, creating a cohesive and agile operational framework. This leadership approach ensures that the entire organization operates as a unified team while leveraging the specific strengths and expertise of each functional area. Qualifications Bachelor's or Master's degree in Industrial Automation, Industrial Engineering, Electromechanics, Environmental Technology, or equivalent by experience Proven experience in automation commissioning, PLC/SCADA programming, and system optimization within water treatment or process industries Demonstrated capability in planning and coordinating resources across project phases (engineering, FAT, commissioning) Experience with site testing, troubleshooting, and functional optimization of automation systems. Familiarity with digital reporting and structured monitoring tools for KPI tracking and system performance analysis Strong practical problem-solving skills and a hands-on mindset for site support and system optimization Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams and clients Proven capability to apply and follow QHSE procedures during on-site activities Effective verbal and written communication skills for technical reporting and client discussions. Fluent in English (spoken and written); proficiency in Dutch, French, or other local languages is an advantage Willingness to travel for FATs, commissioning, and on-site support in alignment with project and operational needs.