Automation Lead – SligoAbout the RoleAn exciting opportunity has arisen for an experiencedAutomation Leadto join a growing pharmaceutical manufacturing site inSligo. This role plays a key part in driving automation excellence and supporting the site's long-term vision to become aFactory of the Future.Reporting to theEngineering Manager, the Automation Lead will provide technical leadership across all control system activities, managing a team of automation professionals and ensuring the reliability, compliance, and continuous improvement of site automation systems.Key ResponsibilitiesLead and manage all control system activities within the pharmaceutical manufacturing facility.Supervise, mentor, and develop a team of automation and control engineers.Provide technical support for control system issues, including troubleshooting, optimisation, and documentation control.Lead validation activities related to control systems during project start-up and commissioning phases.Oversee life cycle management of control systems in accordance with GAMP 5 and regulatory standards.Manage the automation elements of continuous improvement projects, collaborating with process engineers, technical support, and operations teams.Support future integrations between control systems, MES, and ERP platforms.Manage departmental budgets and contribute to long-term maintenance and improvement planning.Ensure full compliance with EHS and GMP standards.Represent the automation function during audits and inspections by regulatory authorities or customers.Qualifications & ExperienceBSc / BEng / Postgraduate Diploma in a relevant engineering discipline.6+ years' experience in process automation within a GMP-regulated environment (pharmaceutical or related industry).Strong understanding of 21 CFR Part 11 and EU Annex 11 requirements for automated systems.Proven experience with plant start-ups, system commissioning, and new product introductions.Expertise in configuring and troubleshooting PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems.Solid understanding of control system networks, including Ethernet and network architecture models.Experience integrating systems with plant historians (e.g., OSI-PI ) using OPC interfaces .Knowledge of automation system life cycle management – including backup, recovery, access control, configuration, and change management.Proficiency in Windows system administration within a regulated environment.Why Apply?This is a key leadership position within a dynamic and expanding pharmaceutical site, offering the opportunity to shape the automation strategy, lead a talented team, and deliver impactful projects in a world-class manufacturing environment.