Technical Automation Project Coordinator/EngineerTipperary – Minimum 3 Days On SitePosition OverviewHorizon Controls Group are seeking a dynamic and experienced Technical Automation Project Coordinator/Engineer to join our pharmaceutical client's team in Tipperary.
This is an exciting opportunity for an individual with a proven background in automation engineering and project coordination within the life sciences or pharmaceutical sectors.
The successful candidate will be responsible for the coordination, execution, and support of automation projects, covering all relevant automation systems.
The role requires a presence on site for a minimum of three days per week, ensuring hands-on engagement and effective collaboration with site-based teams.Key Responsibilities· Lead and coordinate automation project activities across the site for all automation systems, ensuring project deliverables are met within scope, time, and budget constraints.· Develop, review, and manage project plans, schedules, and documentation in accordance with GMP and site-specific requirements.· Act as the primary point of contact for automation project stakeholders, facilitating clear communication and alignment between engineering, operations, quality assurance, IT, and external vendors.· Oversee the design, integration, commissioning, qualification, and validation of automation systems such as PLC/SCADA, Building Management Systems (BMS), Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), MES, and other process control platforms.· Provide technical leadership in troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and resolution of automation-related issues during project execution and post-implementation support.· Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure automation strategies support business and regulatory requirements.· Participate in risk assessments, change controls, and impact analyses to ensure robust management of modifications and upgrades.· Drive continuous improvement initiatives in automation project execution, leveraging industry best practices and technological advancements.· Ensure all automation project work complies with EHS, GxP, and site safety policies.· Prepare and present regular project progress reports and technical updates to site management and project sponsors.· Maintain up-to-date knowledge of relevant automation technologies, standards, and regulatory guidelines.Qualifications and Experience· Bachelor's degree (or higher) in Engineering, Automation, Control Systems, Computer Science, or a related discipline.· Minimum 3-5 years' experience in automation engineering or project coordination, ideally within a pharmaceutical or regulated manufacturing environment.· Strong hands-on experience with automation platforms such as Siemens, Allen-Bradley/Rockwell (PLC/SCADA), BMS (e.g., Siemens, Honeywell), LIMS, MES, and other control systems.· In-depth understanding of automation lifecycle management, project delivery methodologies, and validation practices (e.g., GAMP5).· Familiarity with GMP, FDA, EMA, and other regulatory standards applicable to pharmaceutical manufacturing.· Demonstrated track record of successful project coordination or management, including technical documentation, scheduling, stakeholder engagement, and risk mitigation.· Excellent troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills with a strong attention to detail.· Effective verbal and written communication skills; ability to convey technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.· Proactive, adaptable, and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.· Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, project management tools, and system documentation platforms.Site and Working Conditions· Position is based in Tipperary with a minimum on-site requirement of three days per week.
Flexibility to be on site more frequently during critical project phases is expected.· Occasional remote work may be possible depending on project needs and site policies.· Some travel may be required to meet with vendors, attend training sessions, or support multi-site projects.· Standard working hours apply, with the possibility of extended hours during key project milestones or commissioning activities.Core Competencies· Technical Acumen: Deep understanding of automation hardware and software, system architectures, and integration best practices in a regulated environment.· Project Coordination: Ability to develop and execute project plans, monitor progress, and deliver results within defined parameters.· Collaboration: Effective team player with the ability to build relationships across departments and with third-party vendors.· Regulatory Awareness: Knowledge of compliance standards and a commitment to maintaining quality and safety at all stages of project delivery.· Continuous Improvement: Passion for adopting new technologies and finding efficiencies in automation project workflows.Desirable Skills· Experience with computer system validation (CSV) and electronic batch record (EBR) systems.· Familiarity with cybersecurity principles in automation and control systems.· Training or certification in project management methodologies (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2, Agile).· Experience implementing automation solutions in greenfield or brownfield projects.· Ability to mentor and train junior team members or site personnel on new automation systems.Application ProcessInterested candidates are invited to submit their CV to or alternatively give me a call on 0871897038.