For one of our major clients in Lausanne, we are looking for an Automation & Industrial IT Project Engineer. You will lead modernization and digitalization initiatives for industrial automation systems. You will manage SCADA/PLC projects, virtualization efforts, and industrial IT infrastructure, ensuring compliance with regulatory and quality standards while driving efficiency and reliability in production environments.

Automation & Industrial IT Project Engineer

Responsibilities:

• Lead SCADA/PLC modernization projects (iFIX/WinCC, InTouch, Siemens TIA Portal, Step 7) from design through commissioning.

• Design, deploy, and maintain VMware ESXi infrastructures for OT systems.

• Coordinate suppliers, manage project schedules and deliverables, and provide updates to stakeholders.

• Review and update electrical schematics; support integration and electrical revamping on the shopfloor.

• Perform and execute CSV/qualification activities (FA T/SAT, IQ/OQ/PQ) following GAMP 5, 21 CFR Part 11, and GMP standards.

• Organize SCADA/industrial servers (e.g., SQL Server), implement backup strategies (e.g., CommVault), and maintain disaster recovery plans.

• Troubleshoot automation issues on production equipment and coordinate corrective actions with operations and maintenance teams.

• Implement OT networking best practices, including VLAN configuration, segmentation, and cybersecurity hardening.

• Draft and maintain technical documentation, functional specifications, and change records; support CAPA and non-conformance handling.

• Identify continuous improvement opportunities and standardize templates/procedures to enhance system reliability and compliance.

• Ensure adherence to site safety and quality policies; escalate risks and track mitigations.

What We Are Looking For:

• Minimum 5 years of experience in automation/industrial IT in regulated manufacturing (pharma, biotech, or similar).

• Hands-on experience with Siemens TIA Portal, Step 7, WinCC; InTouch and Aveva/Wonderware exposure is a plus.

• Proven experience designing, deploying, and managing VMware/ESXi environments for OT systems.

• Ability to read and modify electrical diagrams; practical experience in revamp and retrofit projects.

• Solid understanding of industrial networking (TCP/IP, VLANs, segmentation) and OT cybersecurity best practices.

• Demonstrated success delivering supplier-led projects on time, within scope, and under GxP constraints.

• Fluent in CSV and qualification processes (FA T/SAT, IQ/OQ/PQ); knowledgeable in GAMP 5, 21 CFR Part 11, and GMP.

• Familiarity with SQL Server basics (maintenance plans, backups) and SCADA/server administration.

• Strong problem-solving, documentation, and communication skills; able to work effectively on the shopfloor.

• Proactive, structured, and collaborative mindset; resilient in fast-paced production environments.

• English required; French highly desirable.