Job Description

This role is central to the organisation's growth and strategic evolution within Industry 4.0. You will lead the conceptual design of high-level system architectures for next-generation automated manufacturing platforms, shaping the foundations of future smart factories.
You'll play a pivotal role in driving digital transformation-ensuring today's architectural decisions enable long-term operational excellence, scalability, and technological innovation. This is an exciting opportunity to influence major projects and contribute to cutting-edge manufacturing solutions.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the high-level design of manufacturing systems, integrating automation, data, and digital infrastructure in close collaboration with clients
Define system boundaries, data flows, interfaces, and core functional components aligned with customer objectives and emerging industry standards
Develop and specify system requirements and acceptance criteria, traceable to client goals and regulatory standards
Use simulation and modelling tools to evaluate architectural options, performance scenarios, and capacity planning
Validate designs through data-driven analysis to identify risks and optimise architectures before detailed engineering begins
Engage stakeholders to understand future use cases, digital maturity, and long-term strategic needs
Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to ensure architectural alignment with strategic and technological capabilities
Produce comprehensive architectural documentation, including:
System requirement specifications
Functional design diagrams
Risk assessments
Continuously refine system assumptions and requirements as project scope and understanding evolve
Contribute to enterprise initiatives focused on digital enablement and IT/OT integration within smart manufacturing
Essential Skills & Experience
Bachelor's degree in Systems, Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical, or Software Engineering (or equivalent)
7+ years' experience in systems architecture, automation strategy, or conceptual design of complex industrial systems
Strong grounding in systems engineering principles, including:
Requirements development
Interface control
Risk management
Proficiency with simulation tools (e.g. Plant Simulation or similar)
Extensive knowledge of industrial automation technologies, including:
Robotics
PLCs
SCADA
MES
Data acquisition systems
Experience with industrial communication protocols (e.g. OPC, Ethernet/IP)
Familiarity with digital-physical integration layers, including MES, ERP, cloud platforms, and edge computing
Solid understanding of Industry 4.0, Digital Twin concepts, and smart factory frameworks
Practical experience applying Lean Six Sigma and continuous improvement at a system level
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Visio, Project)
A strategic mindset with the ability to simplify complex concepts and communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders
Desirable Skills & Experience
Experience contributing to enterprise digital transformation initiatives
Knowledge of AI, machine learning, or advanced analytics in manufacturing environments

Skills Required