Lead Syncade MES Engineer - Remote Eligible

Lead Syncade MES Engineer

As a Lead Syncade MES Engineer, you will make an impact by architecting, delivering, and leading scalable Manufacturing Execution System (MES) solutions that support GMP-regulated manufacturing environments. You will be a valued member of the Digital Manufacturing / MES engineering team and will work collaboratively with manufacturing, automation, quality, and IT stakeholders to ensure reliable, compliant, and future-ready MES platforms.

In this role, you will:

• Lead the architecture and implementation of Syncade MES solutions, including workflows, electronic batch records, recipes, equipment models, and advanced customizations (VBScript, XSLT).
• Own complex MES initiatives end-to-end, including requirements definition, design, build, testing, validation (IQ/OQ/PQ), and deployment.
• Define and govern MES technical standards and best practices, ensuring scalable, compliant, and maintainable solutions.
• Serve as the primary technical SME and liaison between manufacturing, quality, automation, and IT teams, translating business and regulatory needs into robust MES designs.
• Mentor and guide MES engineers, providing technical leadership, solution reviews, and professional development support.

Work model:

We strive to provide flexibility wherever possible. Based on this role's business requirements, this is a remote position open to qualified applicants. Regardless of your working arrangement, we are here to support a healthy work-life balance through our various wellbeing programs.

The working arrangements for this role are accurate as of the date of posting and may change based on business or client requirements. We will always be clear about role expectations.

What you need to have to be considered:

• 5+ years of hands-on Syncade MES experience, including configuration, development, and system ownership.
• Strong MES architecture expertise, including electronic batch records, workflows, recipes, material management, and equipment modeling.
• Experience working in GMP-regulated manufacturing environments, with a solid understanding of data integrity (ALCOA+), FDA 21 CFR Part 11, and EU Annex 11.
• Proven experience leading MES projects and providing technical guidance or mentorship to junior or mid-level engineers.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis skills, with the ability to resolve critical production issues.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to author GMP-compliant documentation and engage effectively with cross-functional stakeholders.

These will help you stand out:

• Experience supporting pharmaceutical or biotechnology manufacturing operations.
• Hands-on system integration experience with platforms such as DeltaV, SQL Server, LIMS, SAP, or other ERP systems.
• Strong knowledge of ISA-88 / ISA-95 standards and advanced electronic batch record design.
• Experience leading or contributing to system validation lifecycles, including FAT/SAT and validation documentation.
• Prior experience in a Lead, Principal, or Architect-level MES role.

Salary and Other Compensation:

Applications will be accepted until May 24, 2026.

The annual salary for this position is between $66,000 - $132,000 depending on experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.

This position is also eligible for Cognizant's discretionary annual incentive program, based on performance and subject to the terms of Cognizant's applicable plans.

Benefits: Cognizant offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements:

• Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance
• Paid holidays plus Paid Time Off
• 401(k) plan and contributions
• Long-term/Short-term Disability
• Paid Parental Leave
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Disclaimer: The salary, other compensation, and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.