Global Engineering & Automation Leader

The Global Engineering & Automation Leader leads the centralized Deliver engineering function across J&J MedTech, partnering closely with regional and site engineering teams to drive automation, equipment strategy, and operational technology integration across the global distribution network.

This role is responsible for defining and executing engineering strategies for large-scale distribution center (DC) projects, including greenfield and brownfield builds, automation deployments, and equipment lifecycle upgrades. The Director ensures alignment with enterprise technology architecture and compliance standards while providing governance and technical leadership across global initiatives., Global Engineering Strategy & Execution

• Lead development and execution of global Deliver engineering strategies for DC automation and equipment systems
• Drive end-to-end engineering programs from concept through implementation, go-live, and operational stabilization
• Partner with regional engineering teams to deliver standardized, scalable solutions across the network

Distribution Center Automation & Projects

• Oversee engineering workstreams for greenfield and brownfield DC projects
• Lead design, specification, and deployment of automation and material handling equipment
• Ensure successful implementation and operational handoff for major capital projects

Warehouse Control Systems (WCS) & Technology

• Define operational requirements and support deployment of Warehouse Control Systems (WCS) for automated environments
• Enable integration of automation systems with enterprise platforms
• Support knowledge transfer and long-term system sustainability at site level

Operational Technology & Systems Integration

• Partner with J&J Technology (JJT, ISRM) to ensure seamless integration into enterprise systems
• Align engineering solutions with cybersecurity, network infrastructure, and compliance requirements (e.g., SOX, validated systems)
• Ensure adherence to system validation standards (CSV, SDLC)

Vendor & Partner Management

• Lead relationships with key automation and equipment vendors
• Serve as escalation point for critical operational or system issues
• Drive vendor performance and delivery excellence across projects

Governance & Cross-Functional Leadership

• Provide leadership across cross-functional project teams and steering committees (SteerCo)
• Establish governance frameworks for engineering programs and capital projects
• Align engineering initiatives with global Deliver strategy and priorities

Capability Building & Talent Development

• Develop engineering capabilities across global, regional, and site teams
• Coach and mentor technical talent in automation, controls, and WCS expertise
• Build standards, training materials, and a center of excellence (COE) for Deliver engineering

Operational & Organizational Support

• Support audits (Cyber, IT, Quality, SOX) and ensure compliance readiness
• Contribute to budget planning for engineering programs and capital projects
• Participate in talent acquisition and workforce planning initiatives

• 10+ years of experience in engineering, automation, or distribution systems
• Proven track record in:

• Warehouse automation and material handling systems
• Large-scale capital project execution (DC builds, upgrades)
• Equipment specification, validation (IQ/OQ/PQ), and lifecycle management

• Experience working within regulated environments (GMP, medical device, pharma) preferred

Education

• Bachelor's degree in engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or related technical field) required
• Master's degree in engineering or related discipline preferred

Skills & Competencies

• Deep expertise in distribution center automation, robotics, and material handling systems
• Strong knowledge of control systems (PLC, HMI, SCADA, WCS)
• Experience with Computer System Validation (CSV) and SDLC processes
• Strong vendor management and capital project leadership capabilities
• Ability to lead cross-functional, global teams in a matrix environment
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
• Excellent communication and executive presentation skills

Preferred:

• Six Sigma certification
• Experience with high-throughput automated distribution or manufacturing environments, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Data Integration, Developing Others, Inclusive Leadership, Industry Analysis, Innovation, Interpersonal Influence, Leadership, Lean Supply Chain Management, Machine Learning (ML), Management Systems Implementation, Operations Management, Process Improvements, Prototyping, Quality Assurance (QA), Robotic Automation, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Application, Stakeholder Engagement

At Johnson & Johnson, we believe health is everything. Our strength in healthcare innovation empowers us to build a world where complex diseases are prevented, treated, and cured, where treatments are smarter and less invasive, and solutions are personal. Through our expertise in Innovative Medicine and MedTech, we are uniquely positioned to innovate across the full spectrum of healthcare solutions today to deliver the breakthroughs of tomorrow, and profoundly impact health for humanity. Learn more at jnj.com. As guided by Our Credo, Johnson & Johnson is responsible to our employees who work with us throughout the world. We provide an inclusive work environment where each person is considered as an individual. At Johnson & Johnson, we respect the diversity and dignity of our employees and recognize their merit., At Johnson & Johnson, we believe health is everything. Our strength in healthcare innovation empowers us to build a world where complex diseases are prevented, treated, and cured, where treatments are smarter and less invasive, and solutions are personal. Through our expertise in Innovative Medicine and MedTech, we are uniquely positioned to innovate across the full spectrum of healthcare solutions today to deliver the breakthroughs of tomorrow, and profoundly impact health for humanity. Learn more at https://www.jnj.com/ (https://www.jnj.com/).