Automation Engineer

Nicholas Howard are delighted to be recruiting for an Automation Engineer.

The Automation Engineer will play a key role in strengthening OT cyber security posture and recovery readiness across our client's Bray site, while supporting daily automation operations.

The role is focused on:

• Execution of the OT Cyber Security Remediation Program.
• Implementation of backup, restore, and disaster recovery practices.
• Deployment and integration of the Octoplant platform.
• Establishment of standardised processes for patching, recovery, and system lifecycle management.

In addition, the contractor will contribute to day‑to‑day automation support to ensure system stability, availability, and compliance within a GMP environment.

This role aligns with the site’s strategic focus on system availability, recovery readiness, and cyber security discipline as core engineering responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities:

OT Cyber Security & Remediation

• Support execution of the OT Cybersecurity Remediation Program, including vulnerability remediation and patching activities.
• Drive site-level implementation of cyber security controls and best practices for OT systems.

Backup, Restore & Disaster Recovery

• Define and implement structured backup and restore strategies for OT systems.
• Execute and document disaster recovery (DR) tests for critical automation systems.

Octoplant Implementation & Lifecycle Management

• Support deployment and configuration of Octoplant for:
• Centralised backups and version control.
• Vulnerability and configuration monitoring (where applicable).

Patching & Standard Process Implementation

• Define and implement a controlled patching process for OT systems.
• Coordinate patching activities across PLCs, SCADA, and supporting infrastructure.

Automation Engineering (Day-to-Day Support)

• Oversee automation systems to ensure maximum uptime and performance.
• Collaborate with vendors and technical support on issue resolution.

Project & Engineering Contribution

• Support automation-related projects with focus on system stability and risk control.
• Contribute to documentation, testing (FAT/SAT/IQ/OQ), and validation deliverables.
• Ensure all work complies with site Quality Systems and regulatory standards.

Your Profile:

• Degree in Engineering (Automation, Electrical, Computer Science, or equivalent).
• 5+ years experience in automation engineering in GMP manufacturing environment.
• Strong experience in OT systems (PLC, SCADA, HMI, infrastructure).
• Demonstrated experience in at least one of the following:
• OT Cyber Security / remediation programs.

Technical Skills:

• Automation platforms (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell, Mitsubishi, Wonderware, iFix).
• Understanding of OT architectures and industrial networks.
• Knowledge of: GAMP5, ISA/IEC standards, 21 CFR Part 11, Annex 11, GxP / QA requirements.

Capabilities & Behaviours:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to balance project work and operational support.
• Clear communication with technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Should you wish to be considered for this position, please apply below.