Director – Automation and Embedded Systems

The Director – Automation and Embedded Systems will provide strategic leadership and technical oversight for the development, deployment, and lifecycle management of automation platforms and embedded control systems across manufacturing, R&D, and digital infrastructure environments. The role demands an innovative thinker with deep expertise in real-time systems, industrial automation, and IoT integration.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Embedded Systems Development

• Lead architecture, design, and implementation of embedded software (RTOS, bare-metal, Linux-based systems).

• Manage firmware development for controllers, sensors, and actuators used in industrial or laboratory automation.

2. Automation System Integration

• Oversee end-to-end automation strategies involving PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, and motion control systems.

• Ensure seamless integration of embedded devices with higher-level automation platforms and cloud systems.

3. Control System Design & Optimization

• Guide development of control algorithms, PID loops, safety interlocks, and process automation logics.

• Review and validate automation architectures for performance, scalability, and redundancy.

4. Industrial IoT (IIoT) & Connectivity

• Champion deployment of IIoT solutions using protocols like MQTT, OPC UA, Modbus TCP, EtherNet/IP.

• Drive implementation of edge computing, device provisioning, and sensor-to-cloud communication.

5. Digital Engineering & Simulation

• Promote use of model-based design (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink) for embedded control validation.

• Leverage digital twin platforms to simulate automation scenarios and predictive diagnostics.

6. Cross-Functional Technical Leadership

• Collaborate with product design, R&D, software, QA, manufacturing, and compliance teams.

• Establish system requirements and design controls in regulated or high-reliability industries.

7. Product Lifecycle & Standards Management

• Direct lifecycle management of embedded and automation systems, including updates, patches, and version control.

• Ensure systems comply with IEC 61131-3, ISO 26262, IEC 61508, or industry-specific safety/quality standards.

8. Team Building & Mentorship

• Lead and mentor multidisciplinary teams of automation engineers, firmware developers, and system architects.

• Foster innovation, continuous learning, and technical excellence across engineering functions.

9. Vendor and Platform Strategy

• Evaluate and select automation hardware/software platforms and embedded development tools.

• Manage technical relationships with OEMs, chip vendors, and technology solution providers.

Qualifications:

• Education:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical/Electronics, Computer Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.

  • Certifications in embedded systems, automation, or functional safety are a plus.

• Experience:

  • 12+ years in automation and embedded system development with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.

  • Strong background in product-oriented environments (industrial, medtech, automotive, aerospace, or consumer electronics).

• Technical Expertise:

  • Proficient in embedded C/C++, real-time systems, microcontroller architectures (ARM, STM32, TI, etc.).

  • Familiarity with PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens, Beckhoff, Allen-Bradley), industrial communication protocols, and SCADA/HMI tools.

  • Strong understanding of cybersecurity for embedded and connected systems.