Eli Lilly

MES Architect

Eli Lilly$129K — $189K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Software Engineering or related field.
  • 8+ years of experience with MES system Syncade in a GMP-regulated environment.
  • Experience authoring and validating Master Batch Records and electronic batch records.
  • Strong understanding of pharmaceutical manufacturing processes and cGMP requirements.
  • Experience with tier-one MES platform Emerson Syncade.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities across applications and configurations.
  • Excellent communication skills for technical concepts.

Responsibilities

  • Own the end-to-end MES architecture for the Houston site including recipes and workflows.
  • Define technical standards, design patterns, and configuration best practices for the MES platform.
  • Lead requirements gathering and technical decision-making throughout the implementation lifecycle.
  • Architect integrations between MES and other systems like ERP and SCADA/DCS.
  • Execute and support site-level testing and validation efforts for system readiness.
  • Own Computer System Validation rigor covering all lifecycle aspects.
  • Lead and mentor a team of MES engineers in design reviews and deliverables.

Benefits

  • Company-sponsored 401(k) and pension plan.
  • Vacation and time-off benefits.
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care.
  • Life insurance and death benefits.
  • Well-being benefits including employee assistance program and fitness benefits.
Full Job Description
MES Architect

Houston API Manufacturing Site - Generation Park, Houston, TX

What You'll Be Doing

The MES Architect owns the technical architecture and provides hands-on leadership for Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) at the new Houston API facility. You will define the site's MES architecture and standards, lead and mentor the technical team delivering it, and hold deep accountability for validation rigor across the system's lifecycle. You will bring both strong platform expertise and strong leadership skills - partnering with Operations, Engineering, Quality, and the broader Tech at Lilly team to stand up and sustain MES capabilities for a greenfield site.

Your Primary Responsibilities
  • Own the end-to-end MES architecture for the Houston site - recipes, workflows, electronic work instructions, and electronic batch records (EBRs) - aligned to ISA-95/88 standards and operational, quality, and compliance needs.
  • Define technical standards, design patterns, and configuration best practices for the site's MES platform, partnering with global MES architects and platform teams.
  • Lead requirements gathering, solution design, and technical decision-making across the full implementation lifecycle, from concept through deployment.
  • Architect integrations between the MES platform and adjacent enterprise and shop-floor systems (e.g., ERP, SCADA/DCS such as Emerson DeltaV) to ensure seamless, reliable data flow.
  • Execute and support site-level testing and validation efforts (e.g., Installation Qualification, Performance Qualification) to confirm system readiness.
  • Own Computer System Validation (CSV) rigor across the full system lifecycle, including 21 CFR Part 11 and GAMP 5 requirements.
  • Lead and mentor a team of MES engineers, providing technical direction and quality review of designs and deliverables.
  • Serve as the site's MES System Custodian and primary technical point of contact, representing Houston's MES needs to global platform and architecture forums.
  • Build strong working relationships with Operations, Quality, Engineering, and site leadership to align priorities, gain buy-in, and drive adoption of MES capabilities.
  • Support MES startup, site readiness, and go-live activities, including hypercare support and frontline troubleshooting.
What You Should Bring
  • Strong understanding of pharmaceutical manufacturing processes and cGMP regulatory requirements.
  • Strong leadership skills, with experience guiding technical teams and driving decisions in a matrixed, cross-functional environment.
  • Good working knowledge of validation practices, including MBR/EBR authoring and CSV lifecycle expectations.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills across applications, configurations, and integrations.
  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts for non-technical audiences and senior stakeholders.
  • Ability to work closely with Operations, Quality, Engineering, and IT teams to translate operational needs into executable MES solutions.
  • Experience with tier-one MES platforms, in particular Emerson Syncade/DeltaV.
Your Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Information Technology, or a related technical field.
  • 8+ years of experience with MES system Syncade in design, implementation, and validation in a GMP-regulated industry, including experience leading or architecting solutions.
  • Experience authoring and validating Master Batch Records (MBRs) and electronic batch records (EBRs) in a regulated environment.
  • Experience with tier-one MES platform Emerson Syncade,


Additional Preferences
  • Experience with no-code/low-code frontline platforms, in particular Tulip, and with distributed control systems such as Emerson DeltaV, including recipe and batch interfaces to MES.
  • Proven leadership ability, including mentoring technical staff, leading design decisions, and driving stakeholder alignment.
  • Strong knowledge of the Computer System Validation (CSV) lifecycle, including 21 CFR Part 11, GAMP 5, and IQ/OQ/PQ testing.
  • Prior Agile project experience.
  • Experience commissioning and qualifying systems at a new site, and supporting API, small molecule, oligonucleotide operations.
  • Familiarity with related technologies and standards, including ISA-95/88, OPC, and data historians.
  • Professional experience working in a GxP-regulated pharmaceutical or medical device manufacturing environment.

Other Information
  • Role is based onsite at Houston, Texas - API Manufacturing Site.

Actual compensation will depend on a candidate's education, experience, skills, and geographic location. The anticipated wage for this position is
$129,000 - $189,200

Full-time equivalent employees also will be eligible for a company bonus (depending, in part, on company and individual performance). In addition, Lilly offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees, including eligibility to participate in a company-sponsored 401(k); pension; vacation benefits; eligibility for medical, dental, vision and prescription drug benefits; flexible benefits (e.g., healthcare and/or dependent day care flexible spending accounts); life insurance and death benefits; certain time off and leave of absence benefits; and well-being benefits (e.g., employee assistance program, fitness benefits, and employee clubs and activities).Lilly reserves the right to amend, modify, or terminate its compensation and benefit programs in its sole discretion and Lilly's compensation practices and guidelines will apply regarding the details of any promotion or transfer of Lilly employees.

#WeAreLilly

About Eli Lilly

ICOS Corporation is a biotechnology company that engages in the discovery, development, and commercialization of therapeutic products. It is engaged in the commercialization of treatments for unmet medical conditions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, hypertension, pulmonary arterial hypertension, cancer, and inflammatory diseases. It is the developer of a treatment known as Cialis (tadalafil), a product for the treatment of erectile dysfunction through its joint venture with Eli Lilly and Company in North America and Europe. It is also engaged in contract manufacturing services for third parties. It is in a strategic alliance with Solvay Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ICOS Corporation was established in 1989, based in Bothell, Washington. It is currently operated by Eli Lilly and Company.

Eli Lilly Careers

Joining Eli Lilly offers an unparalleled opportunity to become part of a leading global team dedicated to creating a healthier future. As a company revered for its commitment to innovation and leadership in the pharmaceutical industry, Eli Lilly is where your professional journey can flourish. Work You’ll Do At Eli Lilly, we are passionate about transforming patient care and advancing medical innovation. Our team at Eli Lilly is at the forefront of developing groundbreaking solutions in healthcare. By joining us, you will collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the industry, using cutting-edge technology to make real-world impacts. Lead with Innovation and Leadership Eli Lilly stands out in the marketplace by integrating deep industry expertise with robust research and development efforts. We are looking for professionals who are eager to drive change and lead the way in developing therapeutic breakthroughs. Explore Job Opportunities and Growth Eli Lilly offers a variety of career paths, including full-time positions and internships, across multiple functions such as research, marketing, IT, and sales. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, Eli Lilly provides an environment that promotes career growth and learning opportunities. Our commitment to diversity and leadership training ensures that every employee can achieve their potential. Be Part of Our Team Our team at Eli Lilly is committed to excellence and driven by a mission to improve lives. Employees enjoy a supportive culture that values collaboration, creativity, and diversity. We believe that a diverse workforce fosters innovation and helps us better connect with the communities we serve. Benefits and Culture Eli Lilly is dedicated to supporting our employees, offering competitive benefits, wellness programs, and comprehensive health care. Our culture is built on a foundation of respect, integrity, and quality, making Eli Lilly not just a great place to work, but a community to grow with. Networking and Professional Development Eli Lilly encourages continuous professional development and networking. With access to various training programs and mentorship opportunities, employees can enhance their skills and advance their careers. Our leadership is committed to nurturing talent through effective training and development strategies. Join Our Team Discover the exciting job opportunities at Eli Lilly by exploring open positions that match your skills and interests. We are continuously hiring and looking for individuals who are passionate, innovative, and ready to contribute to our mission of making life better for people around the globe. Stay Connected Keep up to date with the latest at Eli Lilly by following our careers blog. Gain insights from industry leaders and get tips on everything from crafting the perfect resume to preparing for your interview. Eli Lilly is not just a company—it's a place where you can make a difference. Explore the positions available and find out how your talents can help change the world. SEARCH ELI LILLY JOBS Stay ahead in your career with Eli Lilly, where innovation, leadership, and a commitment to diversity and growth lead the way to future advancements.
Learn more about Eli Lilly
Size
35,000 employees
Market Cap
$344.2 billion
Industry
Net Income
$6.1 billion
Founded
1876
5 Year Trend
+5.9%
Revenue
$24.5 billion
NASDAQ

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