Ireland’s biopharmaceutical and pharmaceutical industries are experiencing significant growth, driven by technological advancements, increased investment, and a strong focus on innovation. This expansion has created numerous contracting opportunities across various engineering and scientific disciplines.
In this latest blog in our Contracting Series, Claire Brogan, Client Services Manager with Ascend PM, highlights some of the top contracting roles available in Ireland’s thriving biopharmaceutical and pharmaceutical sector.
1. Bioprocess Engineering
The biopharmaceutical and pharmaceutical sectors in Ireland are booming, with a strong demand for bioprocess engineers. These professionals play a key role in developing and optimising manufacturing processes for biopharmaceutical and pharmaceutical products. Companies are actively seeking contractors with expertise in upstream and downstream processing, fermentation, purification, and cell culture techniques.
2. Automation and Control Systems Engineering
With increased automation in biopharmaceutical and pharmaceutical manufacturing, there is growing demand for automation and control systems engineers. Contractors in this field design, implement, and maintain automated systems to enhance efficiency, reliability, and compliance in production facilities.
3. Quality Assurance (QA) and Compliance Engineering
Regulatory compliance is critical in biopharmaceutical and pharmaceutical manufacturing. QA and compliance engineers ensure that products meet stringent GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice), FDA, EMA, and HPRA standards. Contractors in this space help maintain product integrity, safety, and regulatory adherence.
4. Process Engineering
Process engineers play a vital role in designing, optimising, and scaling up manufacturing processes to improve efficiency and ensure compliance with global regulatory standards. There is a strong demand for contractors with expertise in continuous processing, tech transfer, and facility expansion projects.
5. Project Engineering
With significant investments in new facility construction, plant expansions, and process upgrades, there is a high demand for project engineers. Contractors in this role oversee planning, execution, and delivery of capital projects within biopharmaceutical and pharmaceutical sites.
6. Commissioning & Validation Engineering
Commissioning and validation engineers play a critical role in ensuring that new equipment, systems, and facilities meet regulatory and operational requirements before going live. Contractors in this space work on equipment qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ), validation protocols, and regulatory documentation.
7. Laboratory (QC) Staff
As biopharmaceutical and pharmaceutical companies increase production, there is a rising demand for QC analysts, microbiologists, and lab technicians to support quality control (QC) and analytical testing. Contractors in this area ensure that raw materials, in-process samples, and final products meet strict quality specifications.
8. Sustainability and Environmental Engineering
Sustainability is a growing focus for biopharmaceutical and pharmaceutical manufacturers. Contractors in environmental engineering support waste management, energy efficiency, and sustainable manufacturing practices to help companies meet climate goals and environmental regulations.
9. Data Centre Engineering
With Ireland becoming a hub for data centres supporting digital infrastructure in the biopharmaceutical and pharmaceutical industries, there is increasing demand for electrical, mechanical, and civil engineers to design and maintain critical data facilities.
10. Regulatory Affairs Engineering
Regulatory affairs engineers ensure that biopharmaceutical and pharmaceutical products comply with all global regulatory guidelines. Contractors in this role help navigate regulatory submissions, product approvals, and compliance strategies for new and existing products.
Conclusion
Ireland’s biopharmaceutical and pharmaceutical engineering sector is thriving, offering numerous contracting opportunities across engineering, automation, quality, and laboratory roles. Whether you specialise in process engineering, commissioning, regulatory affairs, or laboratory testing, there are many exciting projects available.
By staying updated on industry trends and continuously enhancing your skills, contractors can take full advantage of the dynamic opportunities in Ireland’s growing biopharmaceutical and pharmaceutical sector.
If you’re interested in transitioning into the pharmaceutical industry and want to discuss how your transferable skills align with available roles, reach out to Claire Brogan (clairebrogan@ascendpm.ie) for expert guidance on getting started.