Engineering Project Manager (Automation & Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Machinery)Overview
Experienced Engineering Project Manager specialising in complex automation and robotics projects for regulated pharmaceutical manufacturing environments. Proven ability to deliver bespoke high-precision machinery, including systems used in the manufacture of contact lenses. Strong background in managing full project lifecycles from concept and design through to build, validation, and commissioning.
Key Responsibilities & AchievementsProject Delivery & Ownership
Managed multiple concurrent engineering projects (typically 3–4), ensuring delivery to defined scope, schedule, and budget.
Led end-to-end project execution from initial user requirement specification (URS) through design, manufacture, installation, and final handover.
Delivered automated production machinery for contact lens manufacturing, including handling, moulding, curing, hydration, and inspection processes.
Ensured achievement of all commercial milestones, including staged payments aligned to project delivery gates.Technical & Engineering Leadership
Coordinated multidisciplinary engineering teams across mechanical design, electrical build, controls/software, and machine assembly.
Led structured design reviews with internal teams and customers, ensuring engineering integrity and compliance with specification.
Oversaw development of precision automation systems including:
Robotic handling systems for delicate contact lens components
High-speed vision inspection systems for defect detection and quality control
Precision fluid dosing and filling systems for hydration and chemical processing steps
Cleanroom-compatible automated machinery for controlled pharmaceutical production environments
Supported integration of PLC-based control systems, HMI interfaces, servo motion control, and machine safety systems.Financial & Resource Management
Full ownership of project budgets, cost control, and margin management across multiple live projects.
Planned and allocated engineering resources across design, build, software, and commissioning teams.
Controlled procurement of materials and specialist components to ensure alignment with technical requirements and cost targets.Customer & Stakeholder Management
Acted as primary customer interface throughout the project lifecycle, providing clear progress reporting and technical updates.
Managed scope changes, technical risks, and supply chain challenges while protecting delivery timelines and commercial outcomes.
Built strong working relationships with clients operating in regulated pharmaceutical manufacturing environments.Quality, Compliance & Documentation
Ensured adherence to internal quality standards and relevant pharmaceutical manufacturing compliance requirements (e.g., GMP environments).
Delivered complete technical documentation packs including operating manuals, maintenance guides, spare parts lists, and certification files.
Coordinated Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), including installation and commissioning support.Project Planning & Software Tools
Utilised Microsoft Project for detailed project scheduling, critical path analysis, milestone tracking, and resource planning.
Used Microsoft Excel (advanced) for budgeting, cost tracking, reporting, and project performance analysis.
Worked with Microsoft Teams and SharePoint for project communication, document control, and collaboration across engineering functions.
Experience with ERP/MRP systems for procurement tracking, production planning, and commercial control.
Exposure to engineering document control / PLM systems supporting revision control and lifecycle management of design data.Key Skills
Special Purpose Machinery (SPM) Design & Delivery
Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Automation
Contact Lens Production Equipment
Robotics & Precision Handling Systems
Vision Inspection & Quality Automation
Cleanroom-Compatible Machine Design
Budgeting, Cost Control & Margin Ownership
Cross-Functional Engineering Leadership
Microsoft Project (MSP) & Advanced Excel
Risk, Change & Stakeholder ManagementProfessional Profile
Degree qualified in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline
10 years’ experience in engineering project management within automation and special purpose machinery
Strong experience delivering complex automated systems for pharmaceutical manufacturing environments
Commercially aware, delivery-focused, and experienced in leading multi-disciplinary engineering teams
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