Director – Automation and Control Systems (Valves/Actuators)

We are seeking a results-driven Director – Automation and Control Systems with deep technical expertise in valves, actuators, and industrial control systems. This leadership role is responsible for overseeing the design, development, deployment, and lifecycle management of automation solutions that integrate control hardware, field instrumentation, and industrial software. The ideal candidate will drive innovation, ensure system reliability, and support strategic initiatives in automation across manufacturing, process control, or utility environments.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Strategic Leadership in Automation and Controls

2. Valves and Actuators System Design and Optimization

3. Project Execution and System Integration

4. Standards Compliance and Quality Assurance

5. Team Leadership and Cross-functional Collaboration

6. Vendor and Technology Partner Management

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Leadership in Automation and Controls

• • Define the automation roadmap aligned with corporate goals and technology trends.

  • Lead the development of control system architecture and scalable solutions across multiple facilities.

  • Evaluate and adopt emerging technologies in IIoT, Industry 4.0, and smart instrumentation.

2. Valves and Actuators System Design and Optimization

• • Oversee the specification, sizing, and selection of control valves, actuators (electric, pneumatic, hydraulic), and related hardware.

  • Ensure system interoperability and integration with PLCs, DCS, SCADA, and MES platforms.

  • Drive efforts to improve system reliability, response time, and control accuracy.

3. Project Execution and System Integration

• • Lead large-scale automation projects from concept through commissioning.

  • Manage cross-functional teams including engineering, operations, IT, and OEMs.

  • Oversee detailed design reviews, FAT/SAT procedures, and on-site implementation.

4. Standards Compliance and Quality Assurance

• • Ensure all automation systems meet industry standards (e.g., ISA, IEC, API, ISO).

  • Develop control system documentation including P&IDs, wiring diagrams, and SOPs.

  • Lead risk assessments, functional safety analyses (SIL), and cybersecurity evaluations.

5. Team Leadership and Cross-functional Collaboration

• • Manage and mentor automation engineers, control system designers, and field specialists.

  • Collaborate closely with operations, maintenance, and production teams to ensure user-centric solutions.

  • Promote a culture of continuous improvement, knowledge sharing, and innovation.

6. Vendor and Technology Partner Management

• • Build strategic partnerships with suppliers of valves, actuators, and automation software.

  • Negotiate service contracts, licensing agreements, and ensure lifecycle support.

  • Stay informed on product roadmaps and align with future system requirements.

Required Qualifications:

• • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, or Automation Engineering.

  • 10+ years of experience in industrial automation and control systems, with deep expertise in valves and actuators.

  • Proven leadership in managing multi-site automation projects or system migrations.

  • Strong knowledge of PLC/DCS platforms (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell, Emerson, ABB) and SCADA/HMI systems.

  • Familiarity with protocols such as HART, Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP, OPC.

Preferred Skills and Certifications:

• • PMP or other Project Management Certification.

  • Functional Safety certification (TÜV, CFSE) or understanding of IEC 61511.

  • Experience with predictive maintenance and smart sensor integration.

  • Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.