Position Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and visionary Industrial Innovation Consultant to join our newly established 4th Industrial Revolution Technologies Center for the Western Region. This pivotal role will be at the forefront of identifying, developing, and implementing cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and advanced robotics within industrial and manufacturing contexts. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of manufacturing processes, a strong entrepreneurial spirit, and a proven track record in translating complex technological concepts into tangible, impactful industrial innovations. Experience with Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and production line simulation and a hands-on approach to problem-solving are essential. You will play a key role in driving research, prototyping, and pilot projects that redefine industrial efficiency, productivity, and sustainability.

Major Responsibilities

· Industrial Engagement & Outreach:

Direct Engagement & Needs Assessment: Proactively reach out to and engage with key stakeholders within large factories and industrial SMEs across Saudi Western Region to understand their operational challenges, technological gaps, and innovation needs.

Educative & Consultative Role: Provide expert advice, conduct introductory workshops, and deliver tailored presentations to industrial partners on the benefits, applications, and implementation strategies of 4IR technologies.

Opportunity Identification: Identify potential collaborative projects, pilot opportunities, and areas where 4IR technologies can deliver significant value and competitive advantage for industrial partners.

Front Office Support: Act as front office support for KAUST via active presence in

KAUST satellite offices in Industrial Cities in the western region.

· Stakeholder Collaboration: Collaborate effectively with internal teams (e.g., R&D,

engineering, business development), external partners, academic institutions, and

industry experts to foster a collaborative innovation ecosystem.

· Knowledge Transfer & Training: Document best practices, lessons learned, and technical specifications. Contribute to the development and delivery of training programs for internal and external stakeholders on 4IR technologies and their industrial applications.

· Concept Generation & Prototyping: Lead the ideation, conceptualization, and rapid prototyping of innovative solutions leveraging 4IR technologies to address real-world industrial challenges and opportunities, including the design and optimization of manufacturing components and systems using CAD software.

· Pilot Project Management: Design, execute, and manage pilot projects from conception to completion, including scope definition, resource allocation, risk management, and performance monitoring.

· Solution Design & Architecture: Develop detailed technical designs, architectures, and implementation plans for 4IR-driven industrial solutions, ensuring scalability, security, and interoperability.

· Market & Commercialization Support: Provide technical expertise and support for the commercialization of developed solutions, including preparing technical reports, presentations, and demonstrations for potential clients and investors. Distribute relevant information to providers regarding workshop details, participant needs, and special requests.

· Technology Scouting & Assessment: Continuously research, evaluate, and benchmark emerging 4IR technologies and their potential applications within various industrial sectors, with a strong focus on manufacturing and production environments.

· Innovation Strategy & Roadmap Development: Contribute to the strategic planning and roadmap development for industrial innovation initiatives within the center, aligning with business objectives and market needs.

· Data Analysis & Optimization: Utilize data analytics and simulation tools to optimize industrial processes, predict outcomes, and identify areas for efficiency improvement through 4IR applications.

· Intellectual Property (IP) Contribution: Identify potential for intellectual property generation and contribute to the patenting process for novel innovations.

Competencies

· Technological Acumen: Deep expertise in one or more 4IR technologies (AI/ML, IoT, Robotics, Digital Twin, Additive Manufacturing) with a strong understanding of their industrial and manufacturing applications.

· Industrial & Manufacturing Process Knowledge: Solid understanding of various industrial

and manufacturing processes, operational technologies (OT), and IT/OT convergence.

· Innovation & Creativity: Demonstrated ability to think disruptively, generate novel ideas, and translate them into practical solutions.

· Problem-Solving: Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a systematic approach to complex challenges.

· Project Management: Proven ability to manage complex technical projects, including planning, execution, monitoring, and reporting.

· Collaboration & Communication: Exceptional interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.

· Adaptability & Learning Agility: Ability to quickly learn new technologies and adapt to rapidly evolving industrial landscapes.

· Strategic Thinking: Capacity to see the bigger picture, anticipate future trends, and align innovation efforts with long-term strategic goals.

· Prototyping & Development Skills: Hands-on experience with relevant software tools, programming languages

o Computer-Aided Design (CAD): Proficiency in using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, CATIA, Fusion 360) for mechanical design, product development, and manufacturing preparation.

o Manufacturing Processes: Strong understanding of various manufacturing techniques (e.g., machining, additive manufacturing, assembly, welding, molding) and their integration with 4IR technologies.

o Industrial Automation: Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, industrial robotics, and other automation components commonly found in manufacturing.

· Data-Driven Mindset: Strong understanding of data collection, analysis, and interpretation to drive decision-making.

Qualifications

· Bachelor's or Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering,

Mechatronics Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, Data Science, Electrical

Engineering, or a closely related field.

· Minimum of 5-8 years of progressive experience in industrial innovation, R&D, or

technology development roles, with a strong focus on 4IR technologies in

manufacturing environments.

· Demonstrable experience in successfully leading or significantly contributing to the

implementation of at least two industrial innovation projects leveraging 4IR

technologies & Proven experience in manufacturing operations, process

improvement, or production engineering.