Job Description

Réalta Technologies are seeking a Lead Automation Engineer (Foxboro DCS) to support a pharmaceutical production facility in Cork.
This is a key leadership role within a high-performing API manufacturing environment, where the successful candidate will take ownership of Foxboro DCS systems, providing both hands-on support and strategic direction to ensure reliable and efficient operations.
The ideal candidate will have 8–10+ years’ experience in automation engineering, with strong, hands-on expertise in Foxboro DCS, and a proven track record operating within GMP-regulated life sciences environments.
Responsibilities

• Act as the technical lead and system owner for all Foxboro DCS activities on site
• Provide day-to-day support for automation systems within the Chemical API production facility
• Lead troubleshooting and root cause analysis of complex automation issues, minimising downtime
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance system performance, reliability, and efficiency
• Oversee system updates, modifications, and upgrades, ensuring best practice design and implementation
• Ensure all changes are fully tested, validated, and documented in line with GMP requirements
• Review and approve design and functional specifications, ensuring alignment with process requirements
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support project delivery and operational excellence
• Maintain accurate documentation and ensure compliance with regulatory standards and company procedures

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, Computer Science, or a related field
• 8–10+ years’ experience in automation engineering within pharmaceutical or biotechnology environments
• Strong hands-on experience with Foxboro DCS 
• Proven experience in a lead or senior position, with system ownership or team leadership responsibilities
• Strong understanding of process control, instrumentation, and GMP environments
• Experience across the automation lifecycle (design, configuration, testing, validation, and support)
• Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with cross-functional stakeholders