Plant Engineering & Maintenance Lead (m/f/d)

CordenPharma is one of the leading Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations (CDMO) and develops and produces active pharmaceutical ingredients, medicines and associated packaging services on behalf of its customers as a “full-service” service provider. The group employs around 3,000 people.

Our network in Europe and the USA offers flexible and specialized solutions across five technology platforms: peptides, lipids & carbohydrates, injectables, highly potent active ingredients & oncology and small molecules. We strive for excellence in supporting this network and are committed to providing the highest quality products for the benefit of patients.

CordenPharma International (CPI) acts as the management company of the CordenPharma Group. In addition to the Executive Leadership Team, CPI has central functions such as Sales & Marketing, Legal, HR and Corporate Development, which work for the CordenPharma Group across locations and at an international level.

We are looking for one as soon as possible

CordenPharma is making a bold move to expand its Peptide Platform, strengthening our position as a global leader in CDMO peptide manufacturing. A major milestone in this journey is the construction of a state-of-the-art peptide manufacturing facility in Muttenz, Switzerland - located just outside Basel, a major biotech and pharma hub.

As part of this exciting expansion, we are seeking a Plant Engineering & Maintenance Lead to ensure the reliability, safety, and operational efficiency of all production-related and infrastructural facilities at our Schweizerhalle site. In this role, you will oversee building technology, utilities (energy and water), ventilation systems, and ensure full compliance with ATEX, GMP, and safety standards. You will also lead the design, implementation, and lifecycle management of automation systems to optimize plant performance and data integrity in a regulated environment. Additionally, you will take strategic ownership of all facility management contracts and services, including those with the GETEC Park team and other external partners. 

Your Tasks will include:

• Ensure the availability, reliability, and functionality of infrastructure and production facilities.
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve the corrective and preventive maintenance strategy for the site, including plant reinvestment programs.
• Act as the main point of contact and coordinator with GETEC for all infrastructure and production facility maintenance.
• Lead the implementation and lifecycle management of automation systems (BMS, EMS, SCADA, PLCs) across infrastructure and production environments.
• Optimize the balance between in-house teams and external service providers to maintain a seamless GMP-regulated environment.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with external service providers, handling contract management and liaising with relevant authorities.
• Ensure GMP and safety training for the on-site maintenance team in collaboration with GETEC.
• Lead technology, innovation, and site-related projects to drive continuous improvement.
• Guarantee the safe operation of all infrastructure systems, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, ATEX requirements, and technical standards.
• Manage the site's Repair and Upgrade (R&U) budget, ensuring efficient resource allocation and cost control.
• Identify and resolve technical deficiencies in collaboration with production teams.
• Promote continuous improvement processes to enhance efficiency and minimize downtime.
• Ensure maintenance operations comply with all regulatory and legal requirements, including cGMP and safety standards.
• Implement technical, operational, and organizational measures to optimize maintenance costs.
• Define and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive continuous improvement and ensure maintenance objectives are met
• Escalate critical maintenance issues to the Head of Technical Operations/Managing Director.
   

• Degree in mechanical engineering, process engineering, automation technology or a comparable  technical field.
• Strong technical acumen with a solid understanding of maintenance, process engineering, and plant construction.
• Minimum of 5 years' experience in maintenance leadership role, ideally in the chemical or pharmaceutical industry.
• Hands-on experience with technical production facilities, process development, and production operations is a plus.
• Proven leadership experience managing diverse teams, both directly and indirectly.
• Strong project management skills with a track record of driving successful initiatives.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, fostering strong relationships across teams and external partners.
• Fluency in German and English (written and spoken) is essential. Additional languages are a plus.

Why Join Us?

? A key leadership role in shaping a cutting-edge manufacturing site
? A dynamic and collaborative work environment with a strong focus on innovation and continuous improvement.
? Competitive salary, benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.

? Ready to Make an Impact?

If you are a results-driven leader with a passion for engineering, maintenance, and facility management, we invite you to apply and become a key player in our Schweizerhalle site's success!

? Apply today by submitting your CV, motivation letter, work certificates, and diplomas.
 

Please note that unsolicited applications from recruitment agencies will not be considered.