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Senior Automation Engineer

Job description

Our client is seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to provide onsite project support in Dublin. This is a fantastic opportunity to lead and influence critical control systems projects for our client, from design through to commissioning.

The position is based on office hours, Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm, with occasional extended hours and weekend work required based on project needs.

As a contract role, it offers competitive rates and the potential for a long-term placement.

Roles and Responsibilities:

  • Ensure adherence to GXP procedures on-site across all aspects of the role.

  • Manage and execute automation change controls.

  • Assist in identifying and implementing system improvements and corrective actions.

  • Support the coaching of operators and maintenance technicians in the effective use of control systems.

  • Oversee the specification, development, installation, and validation of automation projects, taking direct responsibility for control systems.

  • Lead discussions with project teams, provide technical support, and make informed decisions regarding hardware and architecture selection.

  • Collaborate with OEM teams to design, develop, and test PLC code according to site coding standards.

  • Work closely with OEM/Project teams to fine-tune PLC code during the testing and development phases of projects. Conduct system testing and troubleshooting to resolve any issues or bugs.

  • Ensure that control systems aspects of projects are completed on schedule and within budget.

  • Assess existing technologies and processes, conducting research and implementing new control technologies.

  • Coordinate and manage control system elements during the build and debug phases of equipment.

  • Work with cross-functional teams to ensure projects are delivered on time and meet required quality standards.

  • Manage subcontractors and vendors during project delivery.

  • Represent our client during qualification and testing of any vendor-supplied systems.

Skills and Education:

  • Third-level qualification in Electrical, Electronic, Systems Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.

  • 5+ years of experience working with automated control systems, preferably in the Life Sciences/Pharma sector.

  • Strong communication skills.

  • Expertise in Siemens PLC platforms (e.g., TIA Portal, WinCC).

  • Proficiency in PLC programming languages such as ladder logic, function block diagram (FBD), and statement list (STL).

  • Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., ProfiNet, Profibus, Modbus) and networking concepts.

  • Experience with HMI/SCADA systems (e.g., WinCC, Intouch, Ignition).

  • Familiarity with cybersecurity principles and techniques for securing SCADA systems.

  • Knowledge of regulatory requirements (e.g., FDA, GMP, GAMP) related to automation and control systems in the Life Science industry.

  • Familiarity with the GAMP software development lifecycle, ANSI/ISA-S88 and S95 industry standards, and 21 CFR Part 11.