Automation Engineering Manager – Lead Automation & MES Team

About the role

We are looking for an Automation Engineering Manager to lead our Automation and MES team within the Engineering department in Cork. Reporting to the Site Engineering Manager, you will drive manufacturing efficiency through advanced automation technologies, digital transformation, and a strong focus on people development.

Key responsibilities

• Deliver maximum availability and performance of automation and MES solutions, using proactive and predictive maintenance to minimise downtime.
• Oversee design, implementation and full lifecycle management of automation/MES projects, ensuring cost‑effective manufacturing aligned with business priorities.
• Lead digital transformation and paperless manufacturing initiatives.
• Coach, mentor and develop a high‑performing team, conducting performance reviews and setting clear objectives.
• Promote a collaborative, inclusive culture focused on learning, accountability and knowledge sharing.
• Champion continuous improvement, embed automation best practices and manage change as technologies evolve.
• Build strong, trust‑based relationships with cross‑functional stakeholders to align automation strategy with business needs.
• Ensure compliance with cGMP, SOPs, data integrity, security and Health, Safety & Environmental regulations.

Required profile

• Degree (Level 8) in Automation, Electronic Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum 10 years of technical experience in the pharmaceutical industry, preferably in solid‑dosage or sterile manufacturing.
• At least 5 years of proven project and people‑management experience with a track record of talent development.
• Inspirational leadership style, proactive change‑management skills and a passion for continuous improvement.
• Excellent decision‑making, communication and customer‑focus abilities.
• Fluent English, both written and oral.

Required skills

• Automation systems
• Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES)
• Predictive maintenance
• Digital transformation
• Paperless manufacturing
• cGMP compliance
• Data integrity and security
• ISO standards
• Health, Safety & Environmental (HSE) regulations