Operational Technology (Automation and Controls) Engineer

Why this role matters

The Operations Technology (OT) Engineer plays a vital role in keeping Douglas' manufacturing operations running smoothly and efficiently. By providing expert software support, driving system upgrades, and enabling process automation, this role ensures minimal disruption to production while helping modernise and future-proof our operations. Sitting at the intersection of technology and manufacturing, the OT Engineer safeguards compliance and supports continuous improvement, making a direct impact on product quality and business performance.

What you'll do

Keep operations running: Troubleshoot and resolve system issues fast, delivering seamless OT service and keeping production on track.

Drive projects: Build business cases, lead or support projects end-to-end, and bring stakeholders with you while managing scope, budget, and timelines.

Unlock insights: Design and analyse reports and SCADA screens to give real-time visibility into operations.

Own the systems: Maintain equipment and software registers, set OT standards, and support smart procurement decisions.

Safeguard performance: Audit and monitor critical systems through planned maintenance to ensure reliability.

Champion improvements: Spot opportunities, challenge the status quo, and implement smarter, faster, more efficient ways of working.

Partner with stakeholders: Keep people in the loop on OT activities and proactively manage any impacts to operations.

What you'll bring

Proven expertise - 5+ years in Operational Technology with hands-on experience in applications, PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) selection, configuration, and deployment.

Leadership impact - at least 5 years in senior technology roles, driving teams and projects to success.

Regulated industry know-how - a strong track record in sectors like pharmaceuticals, finance, or energy, with ITIL and/or GAMP knowledge.

Project leadership skills - confident managing small projects; MES or SCADA experience a bonus.

The right qualifications - a degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Business Administration, or similar (ITIL certification a plus). (Note: I think that industry experience without the right qualification is still ok!)

Standout qualities - customer-focused, structured thinker with sharp problem-solving, clear communication, and sound decision-making.

True leadership - self-motivated, collaborative, and able to inspire others to deliver their best.

Why join us?

Hands-on problem solver with proven experience in project delivery, system troubleshooting, and SCADA/PLC development.

Background in manufacturing or other highly regulated industries (pharma, food, healthcare, aviation).

Skilled in process analysis, manufacturing reporting, and writing clear technical documents.

Holds an Engineering or Computer Science diploma (or equivalent) with 5+ years' experience.

Resilient, curious, and self-motivated with a strong drive for results.

Excellent collaboration, communication, and influencing skills, able to bring people on the journey.

Customer-centric, detail-focused, and committed to delivering compliance and operational excellence.

About Us

At Douglas, we're more than just a company—we're a community of people driven to make a difference. We're proud to be one of New Zealand's biggest pharmaceutical success stories, and we're growing globally. Privately owned and future-focused, our team of 700 includes scientists, engineers, and all kinds of experts, working together to create high-quality healthcare products that help people around the world.

Come join us on this mission to improve lives!

Next Steps

If you're invited to complete a video interview as the next stage of your application, we'd love you to embrace it. Video interviews allow more people the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities to the hiring manager in a new and innovative way, giving you a better chance of securing your ideal role. Relax, be yourself and don't worry, we all feel a bit awkward in front of the camera.

Job Details:

16751

Industrial Engineering

Graduate, Experienced

West Auckland

Permanent full-time

26 Oct 2025 09:00