Lead Engineer Industrial Automation & Robotics

About the role

Join IFF’s global Taste Operations team to lead industrial automation and robotics innovation across a worldwide manufacturing network. You will shape smart‑manufacturing roadmaps, define technical standards, and deliver scalable solutions that improve safety, quality and productivity.

Key responsibilities

• Translate Smart Manufacturing and Digital Transformation priorities into automation roadmaps and investment strategies.
• Define and maintain global standards, architectures and best practices for automation and robotics.
• Govern technology selection and ensure alignment with long‑term platform and integration strategies.
• Lead design, deployment and hand‑over of automation and robotics solutions in manufacturing and warehousing sites worldwide.
• Act as the global technical authority, guiding system architecture and key design decisions while fostering knowledge sharing.
• Build and manage strategic partnerships with automation and robotics suppliers, evaluating emerging technologies.
• Track measurable improvements in safety, quality, productivity, process stability and cost efficiency.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Automation, Electrical, Mechatronics, Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 8–12 years of experience delivering industrial automation or robotics projects across multiple sites or regions.
• Strong knowledge of ERP systems (e.g., SAP), Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and shop‑floor data integration.
• Proven project‑management experience from initiation through operational hand‑over.
• Fluent English (C1) and ability to influence stakeholders in a global matrix organization.

Required skills

• Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC)
• Distributed Control Systems (DCS)
• Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)
• Robotics technologies and industrial networks
• Automation architecture and operational technology infrastructure
• Cybersecurity principles (e.g., ISA‑95, IEC 62443)
• Enterprise Resource Planning (SAP) and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES)
• AI‑enabled automation, vision systems and autonomous operation technologies

What we offer

• Opportunity to shape automation and robotics capabilities across a global manufacturing network.
• High‑impact Smart Manufacturing projects with visible business outcomes.
• Supportive, inclusive environment that encourages continuous learning and knowledge sharing.
• Collaboration with international teams and exposure to advanced technologies.
• Professional development, long‑term career growth and a competitive salary package.