Takeda is seeking an experienced automation engineering leader to oversee automation strategy, engineering projects, and technology implementation at its Hikari manufacturing plant in Japan. Requirements typically include a degree in engineering or a related technical field, substantial experience in pharmaceutical or highly regulated manufacturing, and strong knowledge of process automation, control systems, digital manufacturing, GMP, and validation. Experience managing engineering teams, budgets, contractors, and capital projects is expected. The successful candidate should provide strategic leadership, improve reliability and productivity, support plant modernization, and ensure systems meet safety, quality, regulatory, and business objectives. Strong communication skills and the ability to work across global, multicultural teams are essential; Japanese and English capability may be advantageous.
Takeda Pharmaceutical Company is a global biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Japan, with operations across North America, Europe, Asia, and other international markets. Founded in 1781, Takeda develops and supplies medicines in areas including gastroenterology, rare diseases, plasma-derived therapies, oncology, and neuroscience. Its Hikari plant in Yamaguchi Prefecture is an important manufacturing site supporting the production of pharmaceutical products and active ingredients. Takeda places strong emphasis on patient impact, scientific innovation, ethical conduct, quality, and responsible manufacturing. The company employs a diverse international workforce and operates under rigorous pharmaceutical regulations, including good manufacturing practice standards. Employees can expect a structured corporate environment, opportunities to work with global colleagues, and a focus on continuous improvement, operational excellence, safety, and sustainable business practices.
Japan offers strong opportunities in pharmaceuticals, advanced manufacturing, engineering, technology, healthcare, logistics, and research. Hikari is a coastal city in Yamaguchi Prefecture, known for a quieter lifestyle, attractive beaches, and access to larger regional centers such as Hiroshima and Fukuoka. Japanese workplaces value punctuality, teamwork, respect, careful planning, and attention to quality, while international companies may use English alongside Japanese. Living costs outside Tokyo are generally more manageable, though learning Japanese is highly beneficial for daily life and workplace integration. Foreign professionals normally need an employer-sponsored work visa, commonly an Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services or a highly skilled professional status, depending on qualifications and duties. Relocation planning should cover housing, registration, health insurance, banking, transportation, and schooling where relevant. Employers may assist with visas, moving expenses, temporary accommodation, and language support, but arrangements vary by contract.
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