Automation Engineer – Permanent / Full-Time – Blarney, Co. Cork
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced
Automation Engineer
to join a leading life sciences manufacturing facility in
Co. Cork
. This position will play a key role in designing, commissioning, and maintaining automation systems across high-speed production environments.
The successful candidate will act as the site's subject matter expert (SME) for controls, PLCs, robotics, and vision systems, supporting both operational excellence and continuous improvement initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
* Design, develop, install, and modify automation systems including PLCs, robotics, vision systems, and SCADA.
* Lead troubleshooting, fault finding, and root cause analysis of automation issues in a live production environment.
* Develop and maintain system documentation in compliance with GAMP standards (URS, FDS, FAT, SAT, etc.).
* Provide technical guidance for hardware and software architecture selection.
* Manage and execute automation-related capital projects, ensuring timelines and budgets are achieved.
* Drive process improvement initiatives and support technology upgrades across production equipment.
* Coach and mentor technicians and junior engineers to build automation capability across the team.
* Ensure all systems comply with safety standards, CE directives, and relevant EU machinery regulations.
* Oversee vendor engagement and manage maintenance and support contracts for automation systems.
* Participate in an on-call rotation to provide support for automation-related issues.
* Maintain critical spare parts lists and ensure business continuity for key control components.
* Support the site's quality, safety, and environmental compliance programs.
Qualifications & Experience
* Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Electronic, or Automation Engineering (or equivalent).
* Minimum of
7 years' experience
in a regulated manufacturing or GMP environment.
* Experience with
robotics and high-speed assembly systems
.
* Proficiency in
Rockwell
,
Siemens S7
, or
Telemecanique PLCs
.
* Strong understanding of
servo drives, motion control
, and
vision systems
(Cognex or equivalent).
* Knowledge of industrial communication protocols such as
EtherNet/IP
,
DeviceNet
,
Modbus
, and
Profibus
.
* Experience with MES integration and SCADA systems.
* Demonstrated ability to manage projects through full lifecycle — from concept to validation and handover.
* Strong problem-solving, analytical, and team collaboration skills.
* Familiarity with
preventive maintenance systems
(e.g., CMMS) and
machine safety standards
.
Desirable
* Qualified Electrician or equivalent hands-on electrical background.
* Knowledge of CE marking, declaration of conformity, and machine directive compliance.
* Previous experience in a life sciences, medical device, or high-volume manufacturing setting.