Job Title: PLC Automation Engineer
Location: Cork, Ireland
Industry: Pharmaceutical / Life Sciences
Overview:
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced PLC Automation Engineer to join our pharmaceutical client's engineering team in Cork. This role offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge automation solutions in a regulated GMP environment, supporting manufacturing excellence and innovation.
Key Responsibilities:
* Design, program, test, and commission PLC-based automation systems for pharmaceutical manufacturing processes.
* Support ongoing operations by troubleshooting, maintaining, and optimizing existing automation systems.
* Develop and review Functional Design Specifications (FDS), Hardware Design Specifications (HDS), and related documentation in compliance with GMP and GAMP 5 standards.
* Collaborate with cross-functional teams including process engineers, QA, validation, and IT to deliver robust automation solutions.
* Lead or support automation projects, ensuring compliance with project timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
* Participate in change control, deviation investigations, and CAPA implementation related to automation systems.
* Ensure adherence to safety, regulatory, and quality standards in all automation activities.
Qualifications & Experience:
* Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, or a related discipline.
* 3+ years of experience in PLC programming and automation engineering within a pharmaceutical, biotech, or highly regulated environment.
* Proficiency in Siemens, Allen-Bradley, or equivalent PLC platforms.
* Knowledge of SCADA/HMI systems and integration with PLCs.
* Familiarity with GMP, GAMP 5, and FDA/EU regulatory requirements.
* Strong problem-solving, analytical, and troubleshooting skills.
* Excellent communication skills with the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented, fast-paced environment.
Desirable Skills:
* Experience with batch process automation and recipe management (ISA-88).
* Knowledge of MES, DCS, or Data Historian systems.
* Exposure to pharmaceutical validation processes (IQ, OQ, PQ).
* Experience working with 21 CFR Part 11 compliance.