Graduate Program Associate - Automation Engineer

Gilead Sciences; Cork; On-site; EUR 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading biopharmaceutical company in Cork is seeking a Graduate Automation Engineer to support automation systems in manufacturing. The role involves programming and maintaining PLC systems, aiding in automation projects, and collaborating with teams to ensure compliance with regulations. Ideal candidates will have a Level 8 degree in Engineering or Computer Science and a strong interest in automation and low-voltage electrical design. Opportunities include hands-on training and exposure to industry practices.

Qualifications

• Level 8 or higher degree in Engineering discipline or Computer Science.
• Good verbal and interpersonal skills; ability to work well in a team.
• Good understanding of PCs and networking techniques.
• Interest in PLCs, SCADA control systems and low-voltage electrical design.

Responsibilities

• Assist in programming, troubleshooting, and maintenance of PLC systems.
• Support automation projects including upgrades and new installations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams for compliance and operation.
• Monitor system performance and propose improvements.

Skills

PLC programming

SCADA control systems

Networking techniques

Teamwork

Microsoft Office

Education

Level 8 or higher degree in Engineering or Computer Science

Tools

WinCC

FactoryTalk View

SQL

Job description

Graduate Program Associate – Automation Engineer

Gilead Sciences, Inc. is a research‑based biopharmaceutical company that discovers, develops and commercialises innovative medicines in areas of unmet medical need. With each new discovery and investigational drug candidate, we seek to improve the care of patients living with life‑threatening diseases around the world. Gilead’s therapeutic areas of focus include HIV/AIDS, liver diseases, cancer and inflammation, and serious respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.

Role Overview

As a Graduate Automation Engineer you will support the design, implementation and maintenance of automation systems across the pharmaceutical manufacturing site. You will work closely with cross‑functional teams to ensure reliable and compliant operation of PLC/SCADA‑controlled equipment and systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the programming, troubleshooting and maintenance of PLC systems (e.g., Siemens, Allen‑Bradley).
• Support automation projects including upgrades, modifications and new installations.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Engineering and Quality teams to ensure systems meet GMP and regulatory requirements.
• Support system validation activities including IQ/OQ/PQ documentation.
• Monitor and analyse system performance and propose improvements.
• Maintain accurate documentation of automation systems and changes.
• Learn and apply site‑specific SCADA/HMI platforms and data historian tools.

Learning Objectives

• Understand site‑specific automation architecture and standards.
• Gain proficiency in PLC programming languages.
• Learn GMP principles and how they apply to automation systems.
• Shadow senior engineers during troubleshooting and project execution.
• Complete training on change control, deviation management and validation protocols.
• Develop a basic understanding of network infrastructure and industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profibus, Ethernet/IP, MQTT).

Tools & Technologies

SCADA/HMI: WinCC, FactoryTalk View, iFix; Applications: Lucid, MS Visio, SharePoint, OneNote; Databases: SQL, Access; Compliance: GMP, GAMP5, 21 CFR Part 11.

Qualifications

• Level 8 or higher degree in Engineering discipline (Electrical, Automation or Electronics) or Computer Science.
• Good verbal and interpersonal skills; ability to work well in a team and take initiative.
• Good understanding of PCs and networking techniques.
• Interest and aptitude for PLCs, SCADA control systems and low‑voltage electrical design; ideally interest in Industry 4.0.
• Good level of knowledge with Microsoft Office applications.

Gilead Core Values

• Integrity (always doing the right thing)
• Teamwork (collaborating in good faith)
• Excellence (working at a high level of commitment and capability)
• Accountability (taking personal responsibility)