About the job

Ready to push the limits of what’s possible?
Join Sanofi in one of our corporate functions and you can play a vital part in the performance of our entire business while helping to make an impact on millions around the world.

As an Automation Lead for Upstream Processes within the Insulin Factory Beijing (IFB) project and part of our Global Engineering Team, you will play a key role in delivering state-of-the-art automation solutions for the Drug Substance manufacturing area. You will report to the Automation Project Lead and work closely with global and local teams to bring advanced insulin production capabilities to life.

Main Responsibilities:

• Lead and coordinate the automation scope for upstream processes within the IFB project, ensuring project execution in line with cost, schedule, quality, and resource expectations.

• Act as the primary interface for upstream automation with internal workstreams such as Process Engineering, CQV, CSV, and Digital, as well as with external vendors and engineering partners.

• Drive the design, specification, and implementation of control systems for upstream unit operations (e.g., media preparation, fermentation, cell culture, harvest), ensuring compliance with GMP and Sanofi standards.

• Oversee system integration of upstream equipment and automation platforms (e.g., PCS/DCS), ensuring seamless data flow and operational performance across the manufacturing floor.

• Ensure interoperability with CIP/SIP, CU, MES, data historians, and digital solutions.

• Support automation-related commissioning and qualification activities, including Automation Installation Verification (AIV) and Automation Check Out (ACO).

• Ensure adherence to data integrity requirements and computerized systems validation (CSV) processes in alignment with current regulatory and industry standards.

• Develop and maintain clear documentation, functional specifications, and testing protocols for upstream automation systems.

• Champion innovation and digitalization opportunities in upstream manufacturing, enabling advanced process control and data-driven decision-making.

About You:

• Engineering degree in Automation, Process Engineering, Biotechnology, or related field

• Proven experience in automation for upstream processes in a biopharmaceutical or similar GMP-regulated environment

• Strong knowledge of automation platforms (e.g., Emerson DeltaV, Siemens PCS7, ABB, or similar)

• Experience with GxP, CSV, and Data Integrity compliance

• Ability to work in a cross-functional and multicultural project environment

• Strong communication, problem-solving, and project management skills

• Fluent in English; Chinese or other languages are a plus

Why choose us?

Bring the miracles of science to life: As the Automation & Utilities Systems Project Leader, collaborate with a supportive, future-focused team dedicated to pioneering innovative solutions in insulin manufacturing

Endless growth opportunities: Sanofi offers numerous avenues to develop your talent and advance your career, whether through promotions, lateral moves, or international assignments

Cutting-edge innovation: Lead the integration and advancement of state-of-the-art manufacturing systems and automation solutions, ensuring Sanofi remains at the forefront of the industry

Lead groundbreaking automation within the IFB project in a supportive and innovative team, shaping the path to manufacturing and supply excellence for insulin production at Sanofi. This role is critical to our team’s success and offers exposure to a broad range of activities. For an ambitious automation engineer, it’s a chance to gain a lot of experience quickly.

Anthony Le Marre, Global Head of Manufacturing systems & Automation

Pursue Progress. Discover Extraordinary.

Progress doesn’t happen without people – people from different backgrounds, in different locations, doing different roles, all united by one thing: a desire to make miracles happen. You can be one of those people. Chasing change, embracing new ideas and exploring all the opportunities we have to offer. Let’s pursue progress. And let’s discover extraordinary together.

At Sanofi, we provide equal opportunities to all regardless of race, colour, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, or gender identity. 

Watch our ALL IN video and check out our Diversity Equity and Inclusion actions at sanofi.com!