VPE Automation C&Q Engineer

About SimoTech 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. VPE Automation C&Q Engineer SimoTech is seeking a VPE C&Q Support Engineer to support a leading biotechnology client based in Limerick. The successful candidate will join the site Vendor Packaged Equipment (VPE) Support Team and work under the direction of the site-based VPE Engineering Manager. The role will primarily support qualification activities and new equipment integration projects across manufacturing and utility systems. The ideal candidate will have 8+ years of automation experience within biotechnology, pharmaceutical, medical device, or other GMP-regulated industries and possess strong commissioning, qualification, troubleshooting, and systems integration experience. This role will support automation qualification activities across manufacturing operations, central utilities, and integrated OT systems. Requirements Key Responsibilities Supporting the integration of Vendor Packaged Equipment systems into site automation and OT infrastructure. Supporting commissioning and SAT activities with vendors, project personnel, and site engineering teams. Deploying, configuring, and verifying vendor-specific SCADA applications on virtualised server infrastructure. Coordinating with IT/OT and support teams to establish, validate, and test connectivity and interfaces between vendor control systems, PLCs, virtual servers, thin clients, historian systems, DeltaV, BMS, SCADA platforms, and other site systems. Executing and supporting Operational Verification testing, including issue investigation and defect closeout. Managing change controls, punch list items, and documentation updates arising from SAT, commissioning, and qualification activities. Providing troubleshooting and technical support throughout installation, commissioning, qualification, and handover phases. Key Requirements 8+ years of automation experience in the Life Sciences industry, with a focus on biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, or GMP-regulated manufacturing environments. Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline. Hands-on experience with Siemens PLC and SCADA platforms, including S7-1200, S7-1500, TIA Portal, WinCC, and associated automation hardware. Experience working with vendor OEM control systems, virtualised SCADA environments, and site IT/OT integration requirements. Experience supporting commissioning, SAT, qualification, and operational verification activities for automated manufacturing, utility, or Vendor Packaged Equipment systems. Working knowledge of automation industry standards, including; GAMP 5 software development lifecycle methodologies & ANSI/ISA-S88 batch control standards Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills, with the ability to diagnose and resolve automation, network, interface, and qualification-related issues under project delivery pressure. Strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with vendors, Operations, CQV, IT/OT, Engineering, Quality, and other multi-disciplinary project teams. Benefits What SimoTech Can Offer 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.