VPE Automation Engineer

SimoTech provides manufacturing automation and IT systems engineering, project management and validation services. We partner with life sciences companies to design, build, operate and optimise critical process automation systems that deliver fast track project delivery, operational efficiency, improve manufacturing agility and achieve regulatory compliance.

What is it like to work at SimoTech? With a strong collaborative teamwork culture based on respect, trust and excellence, we play a critical partnering role to our clients life-changing supply of products to patients. In return, there is excellent salary, career progression, educational support and much more.

SimoTech require a VPE Automation Engineer for a large, multi-national client based in Dublin. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 5 years Automation experience in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical or life sciences industries. The successful candidate will be primarily site based, responsible for implementing the full project lifecycle activities associated with Vendor Package Equipment (VPE) on a large biopharmaceutical site.

• Lead and contribute to automation projects focused on long-range preventative maintenance, obsolescence remediation, new technology integration, and plant modernisation/expansion.
• Ensure all automation and control system changes follow formal change management processes, maintaining compliance with GMP and site engineering standards.
• Ensure consistency and standardisation across automation deliverables, including requirements, functional specifications, and control strategies.
• Provide technical input, review, and approval of functional requirements and design specifications.
• Assist in defining, developing, and modifying software components as required to support system enhancements and operational improvements.
• Act as a key technical liaison by responding to systems integrator queries, ensuring alignment with project goals and site standards.
• Support the development and execution of software testing strategies, ensuring robust validation and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Identify and assess remediation needs for process control systems to enhance system reliability and performance.
• Play a critical role in site integration, commissioning, and qualification of VPE systems to ensure seamless upgrade and deployment.
• Proactively track and manage issues in the issue tracker, ensuring timely resolution and minimal impact on project timelines.
• Maintain clear and consistent communication with the Automation Manager, providing regular updates on progress, challenges, and resource requirements.

• Bachelors degree in Engineering, Computer Science or related disciplines.
• 5+ years working experience in Biopharmaceutical or Pharmaceutical engineering, operations, or manufacturing.
• 5+ years experience in PLC/SCADA (Siemens & Rockwell technologies) automation design, configuration, testing and qualification.
• Knowledge of GMPs, regulatory requirements and computer system validation.

• Role provides a high degree of autonomy to allow the successful candidate to reach their full potential.
• Develop new skills and enhance technical ability by working with innovative technologies in a multi-disciplined environment.
• Opportunity to work with large corporate clients on exciting capital projects.

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