Capital Project Manager (Automation) – Long-Term Contract

ABOUT THE ROLE

Start: Early 2026

Location: Ireland (site-based / hybrid)

Industry: Pharma Manufacturing

Engagement: Contract

Overview

A long-term, contract opportunity is available for a senior Capital Project Manager to lead the delivery of automation-focused capital projects within a highly regulated manufacturing environment.

This is a hands-on delivery role with full responsibility for managing automation upgrades across existing production assets and site-wide systems as part of a multi-year capital investment programme.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead medium to large-scale capital projects from concept through commissioning and handover
• Take full ownership of scope, schedule, cost, and risk
• Deliver projects involving automation systems, OT/IT integration, data transfer, and site monitoring platforms
• Manage system integrators, equipment vendors, and installation contractors
• Coordinate cross-functional stakeholders across engineering, quality, operations, and IT
• Ensure full compliance with GMP, GEP, data integrity, and EHS requirements
• Drive change control, validation alignment, and inspection readiness
• Maintain strong on-site leadership during installation and commissioning phases
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards

Technical Project Scope (Typical Examples)

• Upgrade of legacy automation systems on core manufacturing equipment
• Controls upgrades on process, packaging, and inspection systems
• Modernisation or virtualisation of facility and environmental monitoring systems
• Integration of OT and IT networks
• Asset life extension projects on existing equipment

Required Experience

• 10+ years’ experience delivering capital projects through the full lifecycle
• Strong background in automation-focused project delivery within regulated manufacturing
• Proven experience leading PLC/SCADA and control system upgrades
• Solid understanding of GMP, validation principles, and data integrity
• Experience managing contractors, system integrators, and suppliers
• Comfortable supervising on-site installation activities
• Strong stakeholder management, communication, and leadership skills
• Able to operate independently in a fast-paced project environment

Desirable

• Degree in Engineering or other technical discipline
• Project Management certification (PMI, IPMA, PRINCE2 or equivalent)
• Previous experience delivering brownfield automation upgrades

Contract Snapshot

• Long-term programme (12–24 months)
• Strong contractor rate available
• End-to-end ownership of automation projects
• High-impact role within a major capital investment programme
• Potential for follow-on project work