Title: Automation Project Manager Location: Research Triangle Park (RTP), North Carolina Work Arrangement: Hybrid - on-site presence required during execution periods, with flexibility for remote work at other times Duration: 2 Years Type: Contract W2
Payrate: $60 - $75/hr on W2
Position Overview We are seeking a global leader in the pharmaceutical/life sciences industry, is seeking an experienced Automation Project Manager to lead a large-scale lifecycle management initiative involving global automation systems. This is a high-visibility role supporting a critical infrastructure upgrade within an established, ongoing program of work. The ideal candidate brings a strong blend of technical automation knowledge and project management expertise, enabling effective collaboration across engineering teams, contractors, and business stakeholders while maintaining full project accountability.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the planning, execution, and delivery of automation lifecycle management projects
Develop and maintain detailed project schedules, timelines, and resource plans
Facilitate project meetings, status updates, and steering committee reviews
Coordinate activities among engineering teams, system owners, vendors, and contractors
Monitor project milestones, risks, and dependencies to ensure successful execution
Drive stakeholder communication and provide regular progress reporting to leadership
Support lifecycle replacement, upgrade, and modernization efforts for automation platforms
Ensure project documentation, change management, and governance requirements are maintained
Collaborate with technical teams to evaluate system impacts, implementation strategies, and project risks
Manage contractor activities and hold vendors accountable to project deliverables and timelines
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Automation, Computer Science, Project Management, or a related field
8+ years of project management experience within pharmaceutical, biotech, life sciences, manufacturing, or other highly regulated environments
Proven experience leading automation-focused projects
Strong understanding of automation systems and related infrastructure
Demonstrated success managing complex, cross-functional projects from initiation through completion
Experience with project planning, scheduling, budgeting, and stakeholder management
Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills
Preferred Qualifications
Experience supporting automation lifecycle management or software implementation projects
Experience working with global automation platforms and multinational project teams
Familiarity with systems such as DeltaV, Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Siemens PCS7, Emerson platforms, Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), and SCADA/HMI technologies
PMP certification or equivalent project management credential