Specialist Systems SME

Job title: Specialist Systems SME

Location: Indianapolis, Indiana (on-site)

Duration: Minimum 1 year anticipated extensions

Desired Start Date: April/May 26'

Hire type: W2 or LLC hire (no C2C, 1099 or sponsorship options)

About the role:

The Specialist Systems SME (Subject Matter Expert) serves as the Owner’s rep technical authority and delivery lead for all Special Systems across major biopharma greenfield programs. This role is accountable for the strategy, integration, and end-to-end execution of critical building systems, including Permanent Security, Building Management Systems (BMS), and Fire Alarm & Life Safety systems.

Operating between engineering, construction, and execution, the Lead ensures systems are designed, delivered, and commissioned in compliance with GMP, corporate standards, and regulatory requirements. The role partners closely with multiple engineering vendors, system integrators, and cross-functional stakeholders to deliver integrated, secure, and operations-ready systems.

Example Responsibilities:

1. Strategy & Owner’s Representation

• Act as the Owner’s Representative for all Special Systems, ensuring alignment with project objectives and regulatory expectations
• Define system delivery and integration strategies across the project lifecycle
• Provide leadership from design through commissioning and handover
• Review and challenge EPCM and vendor proposals to protect Owner interests

2. Engineering & Technical Governance

• Establish system architecture, standards, and technical requirements
• Review and approve specifications, drawings, and vendor submittals
• Ensure compliance and integration across automation, IT/OT, electrical, HVAC, and facility systems

3. Execution & Delivery Leadership

• Lead EPCM partners, integrators, and vendors to deliver against scope, schedule, budget, and quality
• Provide input into vendor selection, change management, and schedule or cost impacts
• Monitor progress and mitigate risks related to integration, cybersecurity, and delivery
• Oversee key milestones including design, FAT, delivery, installation, SAT, and turnover

4. Construction & Site Integration

• Provide site support during installation and integration
• Ensure systems are installed per approved designs and standards
• Partner with Construction, QA/QC, and Safety teams to resolve field issues

5. Commissioning, Qualification & Ops Readiness

• Oversee commissioning and acceptance of Security, BMS, and Fire Alarm systems
• Coordinate with C&Q teams to ensure compliant testing and documentation
• Approve turnover documentation including as-builts, O&M manuals, and training materials
• Support handover to Operations, Facilities, Security, and Quality teams

Required Qualifications:

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related discipline
• 5–10 years of experience delivering Special Systems within large-scale industrial, pharmaceutical, or biotech projects
• Demonstrated experience managing multi-disciplinary vendors and system integrators in regulated environments

Technical Expertise

• Strong knowledge of Physical Security Systems, BMS/BAS, and Fire Alarm/Life Safety systems
• Familiarity with GMP, applicable codes (NFPA, IBC, AHJ), cybersecurity principles, and project delivery lifecycle

Leadership & Core Skills

• Strong ownership mindset and accountability for delivery outcomes
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Ability to work in fast-paced, multi-disciplinary environments
• Strong communication, coordination, and stakeholder management skills
• Proficiency with project management and document control systems

Core Competencies

• Owner advocacy with collaborative delivery
• Ability to challenge constructively and drive technical excellence
• High attention to detail and execution discipline
• Risk identification and mitigation mindset
• Strong cross-functional leadership

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting commissioning and qualification (C&Q) activities
• PMP or equivalent certification
• Experience on large pharmaceutical capital projects
• Exposure to IT/OT integration and cybersecurity

Success Measures

• Delivery of safe, compliant, and fully integrated Special Systems
• Early identification and mitigation of integration and life-safety risks
• Strong performance across EPCM partners and vendors
• On-time, on-budget delivery with effective transition to operations