Head of Plant Engineering 80-100% (m/f/d)

Lonza, a worldwide provider of life‑science solutions with more than 30 sites on five continents, is looking for a Head of Plant Engineering to steer engineering functions at its Visp location in Switzerland. The role combines oversight of plant‑wide engineering, maintenance planning, utility management and capital‑investment programmes while guiding a diverse team of supervisors, engineers and specialists. On a daily basis the incumbent will organise staffing and leave schedules to keep production flowing, lead communication between management and operational groups, and champion continuous‑improvement initiatives rooted in Lonza's culture. The position also serves as the engineering authority for major capital projects, offering expertise on utilities and supporting the design, build and start‑up phases of new facilities. Additionally, the leader will set maintenance policies, introduce change‑over concepts, and manage budgets for engineering, maintenance, utilities and CAPEX, fostering innovation and cost‑saving collaborations within the manufacturing leadership team. The ideal candidate holds a bachelor's or master's qualification in mechanical, chemical, electrical engineering, automation or a comparable technical field. A minimum of ten years in engineering and maintenance leadership, preferably inside the biopharmaceutical or other tightly regulated manufacturing environment, is required. Deep familiarity with GMP standards and hands‑on experience with engineering information systems such as COMOS and SAP are essential. Proven ability to build and inspire high‑performing, multidisciplinary teams, coupled with strong communication and stakeholder‑management skills, is also mandatory. Business‑fluent English is a non‑negotiable requirement. The role offers a dynamic, inclusive workplace that values diversity and ethical conduct. Relocation support is available for eligible candidates and their families. The position can be performed at 80 % to 100 % capacity, providing flexibility for work‑life balance. Lonza's compensation package recognises high performance and includes a range of lifestyle, family and leisure benefits tailored to the Visp region. What the role asks for: - Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Chemical, Electrical, Automation or related field - Ten or more years in engineering and maintenance leadership - Experience in biopharmaceutical or highly regulated manufacturing - Strong knowledge of GMP requirements - Proficiency with COMOS system - Proficiency with SAP system - Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary teams - Business‑fluent English - German (preferred, nice‑to‑have)