Job Description

The IT Manufacturing Architect plays a critical role in designing, implementing, and maintaining the IT systems that support Western Digital’s manufacturing operations. The IT MFG Architect is responsible for the process of developing solution architectures and designs that are responsive to business needs while consistent with the long-term architectures of IT. The IT manufacturing architecture must be aligned with Western Digital’s business goals, promote agility and efficiency, and leverage the latest technologies to improve operational performance.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Develop and oversee the IT architecture roadmap for the manufacturing domain, ensuring seamless alignment with the overarching enterprise architecture strategy. Maintain comprehensive documentation for the IT architecture and systems.
• Provide leadership to the solution architecture community of practice, ensuring the consistent integrity of end-to-end solution architecture and fostering functional relationships with other projects and applications in accordance with the long-term architectural roadmap.
• Conduct thorough analyses of manufacturing processes and workflows to pinpoint opportunities for IT-driven automation and optimization. Effectively manage and prioritize a portfolio of IT projects within the manufacturing domain.
• Offer technical leadership to business partners, engaging directly with senior business leaders to craft solutions with a focus on Manufacturing Systems that precisely meet the business needs.
• Keep abreast of emerging technologies and trends in the manufacturing IT landscape. Possess a deep understanding of current technology, solutions, and industry trends, and conceptualize solutions that effectively address business needs, opportunities, and challenges. Lead discussions on solution options/alternatives and their associated impacts.
• Validate the alignment of solutions with corporate standards and compliance requirements. Establish and enforce IT security standards and protocols specific to the manufacturing domain.
• Spearhead the preparation for the architectural review process (e.g., ARB) to facilitate discussions regarding necessary modifications to project solution architecture, overcoming design challenges, or addressing deviations observed in project design.

Qualifications

REQUIRED

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Information Systems, or related field, preferably with a Master’s degree.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in IT architecture design and implementation, with a strong focus on the manufacturing domain.
• Minimum 15 total years’ experience in other technical roles such as developer or system analyst
• Proven experience in designing and implementing MES, industrial automation, and other manufacturing systems.
• Experience with MES and Manufacturing technologies.
• Knowledge of industrial automation protocols and standards (e.g., Secs Gem, Modbus, OPC UA).
• Experience with data analytics and visualization tools.
• Agile development methodologies and Project Management methodologies.
• Deep understanding of IT security principles and best practices in the manufacturing environment.

SKILLS

• Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects concurrently.
• Experience working in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.