About PepsiCo

PepsiCo is one of the world's leading food and beverage companies, with a portfolio that includes iconic brands like Pepsi, Lay's, Gatorade, and Quaker. Operating in over 200 countries, PepsiCo employs more than 300,000 people globally and generates annual revenues exceeding $86 billion. In Thailand, PepsiCo has a strong presence through its state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, including the Lamphun Plant, where innovation in automation and smart manufacturing drives operational excellence. As a leader in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, PepsiCo is committed to sustainable growth, digital transformation, and delivering high-quality products to millions of consumers daily.

Role Overview

The Automation Engineering Manager (C&IS Engineering Manager) role at PepsiCo's Lamphun Plant in Muang, Lamphun, Thailand, is a pivotal leadership position focused on designing, implementing, and maintaining advanced automated systems. This role optimizes complex manufacturing processes for maximum efficiency, safety, and reliability. Leveraging expertise in PLC programming, hardware/software integration, HMI, SCADA, robotics, and packing automation, you will spearhead factory automation initiatives. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, including engineering, IT, and production, you will ensure seamless operations that align with PepsiCo's global standards for operational excellence and compliance.

This full-time position offers a unique opportunity to govern critical IT infrastructure for manufacturing, foster secure OT-IT connectivity, and champion Smart Manufacturing and digitalization projects. With PepsiCo's emphasis on innovation, this role positions you at the forefront of Industry 4.0 transformations in the food and beverage industry.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership in Automation Systems

Provide strategic leadership for PLC, HMI, SCADA, robotics, and packing automation systems. Ensure these technologies are robust, standardized, and fully aligned with production demands to minimize downtime and maximize throughput.

Root Cause Analysis and Reliability

Lead comprehensive root cause analysis for major downtime events and system-level failures. Implement corrective actions to enhance system reliability and prevent recurrence, safeguarding PepsiCo's production continuity.

IT Infrastructure Governance

Govern industrial networks, servers, and data platforms supporting manufacturing operations. Collaborate closely with IT teams to deliver secure, scalable, and resilient OT-IT connectivity while adhering to cybersecurity, data integrity, and corporate IT policies.

Smart Manufacturing Initiatives

Sponsor and lead digitalization and Smart Manufacturing projects, driving PepsiCo's vision for intelligent factories. Develop and mentor engineering, automation, and OT/IT teams to foster a culture of continuous improvement.

Qualifications & Requirements

To excel in this role, candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, preferably in Electrical, Automation, Mechatronics, Computer, or a related field. A minimum of 8–12 years of experience in an industrial manufacturing environment is required, with at least 3–5 years in a managerial or leadership capacity within Automation, Engineering, OT/IT, or Smart Manufacturing.

Experience in FMCG manufacturing is highly preferred, equipping you with insights into high-volume, fast-paced production. Demonstrated leadership skills, the ability to thrive under pressure, and excellent communication in both Thai and English are essential. Your technical proficiency in PLC programming, robotics, SCADA systems, and OT-IT integration will be key to success.

Benefits & Perks

PepsiCo offers a competitive compensation package tailored to top talent in Thailand's manufacturing sector. Beyond an estimated salary range reflecting Food & Beverage industry standards with a buffer for excellence, enjoy comprehensive health insurance, wellness programs, and family medical coverage. Performance-based incentives, annual bonuses, and employee discounts on PepsiCo products add to the appeal.

Additional perks include subsidized meals at the plant, transportation allowances, and flexible working arrangements where feasible. PepsiCo invests in your well-being with modern facilities, gym access, and mental health support, ensuring a balanced work-life integration.

Career Growth

At PepsiCo, career progression is a reality for high performers. This managerial role serves as a launchpad for broader leadership opportunities within Asia-Pacific operations or global functions. Benefit from tailored development programs, including leadership training, technical certifications in automation and digital technologies, and mentorship from senior executives.

PepsiCo's commitment to internal mobility means you could advance to regional automation director roles or pivot into supply chain innovation leadership. With a focus on diversity and inclusion, PepsiCo provides equal opportunities for professional growth, backed by performance metrics and clear career pathways.

Why Join Us

Joining PepsiCo's Lamphun Plant means becoming part of a global powerhouse that values innovation, sustainability, and people. Work on cutting-edge automation projects that impact millions, in a collaborative environment equipped with the latest technologies. PepsiCo's culture emphasizes winning together, with recognition programs, team-building events, and a focus on employee empowerment.

In Thailand's dynamic FMCG market, this role offers stability, impact, and the chance to shape the future of manufacturing. Contribute to PepsiCo's goals of zero-net emissions and sustainable sourcing while advancing your career in a premium, supportive organization.

Role FAQs

What is the work location and schedule?

The role is based full-time at the Lamphun Plant in Muang, Lamphun, Thailand, with standard manufacturing shifts and potential for on-call support.

Is FMCG experience mandatory?

Highly preferred but not mandatory; strong industrial automation background with leadership is key.

What salary can I expect?

Estimated at $65,000–$95,000 USD yearly, based on sector rates with upside buffer, plus incentives.

Does PepsiCo support professional development?

Yes, through training, certifications, and global mobility programs.

How does this role contribute to PepsiCo's digital strategy?

Directly leads Smart Manufacturing initiatives, enhancing efficiency and OT-IT convergence.