Réalta Technologies are seeking an experienced Lab Automation Engineer to play a key role in the delivery of a next-generation automated laboratory environment. This position will lead the technical integration, implementation, and validation of laboratory automation systems, ensuring seamless connectivity across laboratory equipment, robotics, software platforms, and enterprise systems.
The successful candidate will act as the primary automation representative for major automation projects, coordinating multiple vendors and stakeholders while driving the development of a highly automated, digitally connected laboratory ecosystem. This role offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of laboratory automation, robotics, digital technologies, system integration, and regulatory compliance.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
- Lead laboratory automation projects from design through implementation, validation, and operational handover.
- Serve as the primary technical lead for automation, integration, and digital transformation initiatives.
- Manage project scope, timelines, budgets, risks, and stakeholder communications.
- Coordinate and oversee equipment vendors, robotics suppliers, software providers, and system integrators.
- Design and implement integration solutions between laboratory equipment and enterprise systems (LIMS, MES, SCADA, Historian).
- Develop automation architectures, data flows, interface specifications, and integration standards.
- Support robotic automation, automated workflows, and Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) technologies.
- Ensure reliable sample tracking, workflow execution, data integrity, and audit trail compliance.
- Lead validation activities including URS, Risk Assessments, IQ/OQ/PQ, FAT, SAT, UAT, and system testing.
- Ensure compliance with GAMP 5, 21 CFR Part 11, Annex 11, ALCOA+, and cGMP requirements.
- Collaborate with Automation, IT, Cybersecurity, Quality, and Engineering teams on infrastructure and cybersecurity initiatives.
- Drive continuous improvement through automation, robotics, data analytics, and digital technologies.
- Develop automation and data solutions using Python, SQL, LabVIEW, or similar tools.
- Promote safety, quality, operational excellence, and long-term system sustainability.
Skills and Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Automation, Computer Science, Biotechnology, or a related discipline.
- 4+ years' experience in automation, system integration, or laboratory technology environments.
- Proven experience delivering automation projects within GMP-regulated industries.
- Strong laboratory automation and system integration experience.
- Knowledge of PLC, SCADA, OT, and industrial automation systems.
- Experience with SQL databases, automation interfaces, and integration technologies.
- Strong understanding of validation lifecycle management and qualification activities.
- Experience managing vendors, contractors, and third-party technical partners.
- Excellent project management, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
Travel
The role is primarily site-based in Cork, with occasional travel required for vendor meetings, factory acceptance testing, partner site visits, training, and project deployment activities.
