Field Service Engineer, Automation & Controls
Location: Ireland
Travel: Regular travel across Ireland with some international trips, approximately 50 to 70 percent per month
We are looking for an experienced Field Service Engineer to commission, optimise and support automation and control systems on bespoke production equipment. This is a predominantly site-based, hands-on role working directly on customer machinery and control systems, often with minimal supervision. You will ensure equipment is installed, started up and running reliably, while maintaining high technical standards and a professional, customer-focused approach.
Key Responsibilities
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Configure, modify and support PLC, HMI and related PC-based control software in line with customer process and safety requirements
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Commission, fault-find and optimise automation and control systems at client sites to achieve agreed performance and uptime targets
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Diagnose electrical, pneumatic and control issues using schematics, manuals and diagnostic tools, implementing robust and sustainable fixes
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Plan and execute site work independently or as part of a wider project team, coordinating with customer production schedules
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Align on-site activities with customer objectives, ensuring work is clearly planned, communicated and documented
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Share operational and troubleshooting knowledge with maintenance and operations teams, providing training and guidance where needed
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Recommend tools, spare parts or equipment improvements to enhance reliability, maintainability and performance
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Make balanced recommendations on repair versus replacement, focusing on cost-effective, long-term solutions
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Lead and coordinate site activities involving internal colleagues, customer personnel and third-party vendors
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Produce clear visit reports and service documentation, tracking open actions through to resolution
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Participate in an on-call rota to support customers outside standard hours when required
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Communicate effectively with internal stakeholders and customer contacts at all levels
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Support warranty and non-warranty service activities in line with company processes
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Work safely at all times, following site rules and company health and safety procedures
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Represent the company professionally on customer sites as a trusted technical point of contact
Qualifications
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Degree or technical qualification in Electrical, Automation or Control Engineering, or a closely related discipline
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Experience with databases, robotics or vision systems is advantageous but not essential
Experience and Skills
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Several years’ experience in a practical automation or control systems role, typically 4+ years
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Strong background developing, modifying and troubleshooting PLC and HMI applications, ideally on Allen-Bradley and or Siemens platforms
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Solid understanding of electrical, pneumatic and multi-axis control systems
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Confident reading and interpreting technical drawings, wiring diagrams and system documentation
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Good working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel for reporting and documentation
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Demonstrated ability to learn new systems quickly and troubleshoot complex automated equipment
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Willingness and flexibility to travel extensively, sometimes at short notice
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Experience within life sciences or pharmaceutical manufacturing is beneficial but not required
About You
You are a clear and confident communicator who builds effective working relationships with engineers, operators, vendors and management. You stay calm under pressure, organise your workload effectively and take ownership of issues through to resolution. You enjoy being on site, solving real-world technical problems and delivering a high standard of service without close supervision