Automation Graduate

• Location: Waterford, Ireland
• Start Date: 1 September 2027
• Duration: 24 months | Three 8-month rotations
• Working Model: on-site
• Working Hours: Full-time
• Salary:€41,600 gross per annum
• Assessment Centre: January 2027 | In person, Waterford

Your opportunity at Sanofi

Ready to turn your academic knowledge into real-world experience?

Join Sanofi, a global biopharmaceutical company, through our 24-month Graduate Programme in Waterford. Explore three different functions, gain hands-on industry experience and develop the skills to shape your future career.

The future of manufacturing is digital, connected, and data-driven. Through our Automation Graduate Programme, you'll gain hands-on experience with industry-leading technologies, support impactful automation projects, and help shape the next generation of pharmaceutical manufacturing at Sanofi Waterford.

One programme. Three rotations. A world of experience.

Why explore just one area when you could experience three?

Our structured Graduate Programme takes you through three 8-month rotations, providing exposure to different functions, meaningful projects and opportunities to learn from experienced professionals.

Your rotation journey

Rotation 1: Automation & Controls Operations | Months 1–8

Start your journey in Automation & Controls Operations, where you'll gain a strong foundation in the systems that support safe, efficient and reliable manufacturing processes. You'll work alongside automation engineers and operations teams to understand how digital technologies enable the production of life-changing medicines.

• Support the maintenance and troubleshooting of PLC, SCADA and HMI systems used across manufacturing operations.
• Gain hands-on experience with GMP-compliant computerised systems while supporting day-to-day automation activities in mAbs and Lyophilisation production areas.
• Assist with system documentation, continuous improvement initiatives and the implementation of automation updates to enhance operational performance.

Rotation 2: Engineering Projects & Digital Systems | Months 9–16

Continue your development within Engineering Projects & Digital Systems, where you'll contribute to automation projects and digital transformation initiatives that support the future of manufacturing at Sanofi.

• Support the delivery of automation and digital projects from planning through implementation.
• Work with MES and LIMS platforms, assisting with system support, configuration activities and lifecycle management.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Automation, IT and Digital teams to develop solutions that improve operational efficiency and data visibility.

Rotation 3: Advanced Automation & Digital Innovation | Months 17–24

In your final rotation, you'll build on your experience by taking ownership of more complex initiatives and working closely with cross-functional teams to deliver innovative solutions.

• Lead or support automation projects focused on line digitalisation, process optimisation and Industry 4.0 technologies.
• Contribute to digital and data analytics initiatives in partnership with functions such as Supply Chain, Manufacturing Science & Technology (MSAT) or Operations.
• Develop project management, stakeholder engagement and problem-solving skills while delivering improvements that support business and manufacturing objectives.

Your development focus

Throughout the programme, you'll develop knowledge and practical skills to support your future career in Automation, Digital Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing. You will gain hands-on experience working with automation systems, digital technologies and cross-functional project teams while building the technical and professional capabilities needed to succeed in a modern biopharmaceutical manufacturing environment.

• Develop expertise in automation and control systems, including PLCs, SCADA, HMI platforms, and GMP-compliant computerised systems.
• Build strong project management, problem-solving, collaboration and stakeholder engagement skills through cross-functional assignments and project work.
• Gain practical experience in digital transformation, data-driven decision-making, system lifecycle management, and the implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies within a regulated manufacturing environment.

Your growth, our commitment

Your development is at the heart of our programme. Here's what you can look forward to:

• Three diverse rotations: Explore different functions and build a broader understanding of the business.
• Dedicated cross-functional mentor: Receive guidance from an assigned mentor, with monthly check-ins throughout the programme.
• A buddy in every rotation: Get practical, day-to-day support as you settle into each new team.
• Hands-on training: Learn directly from experienced colleagues and develop skills through practical experience and training opportunities.

Who we're looking for

We're looking for curious, motivated graduates who are eager to learn, collaborate and explore new opportunities.

To be eligible, you'll need to:

• Have graduated within the past two years or be due to graduate before 1 September 2027.
• Hold a minimum 2.1 primary degree or a Master's degree in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related engineering or technology discipline.
• Have full, unrestricted right to work in Ireland.

Essential skills:

• Strong interest in automation, digital technologies, and advanced manufacturing environments.
• Basic understanding of industrial automation systems, control systems, programming, or computer networking.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to troubleshoot technical issues systematically.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work successfully in cross-functional teams.

Desirable qualifications:

• Knowledge of PLC, SCADA, HMI, MES, or LIMS systems gained through academic studies, internships, or project work.
• Experience with programming, scripting, data analytics, or digital technologies.
• Awareness of Industry 4.0, smart manufacturing, or digital transformation concepts.
• Previous placement, internship, project, or laboratory experience in an engineering, manufacturing, automation, or technology-related environment.

Previous experience through internships, placements or relevant work is an advantage, but not essential.

About Sanofi

We're an R&D-driven, AI-powered biopharma company committed to improving people's lives and delivering compelling growth. Our deep understanding of the immune system – and innovative pipeline – enables us to invent medicines and vaccines that treat and protect millions of people around the world.

Together, we chase the miracles of science to improve people's lives.

What we offer

Alongside structured professional development, you'll receive:

• Annual salary: €41,600 gross per annum
• Bonus: Performance related bonus 8% (STI)
• Benefits: Access to an attractive benefits package.

Your recruitment journey

We want you to know what to expect at every step:

• Apply & complete a short survey: After applying, you'll receive a mandatory screening survey.
• On-demand video interview: Selected candidates can record their responses at a convenient time within the given deadline.
• Short connect call: An informal conversation with our recruitment team to discuss your application and confirm a few details.
• In-person assessment centre: Final assessments are planned for January 2027 at our Waterford site.

Candidates will be assessed at each stage, with progression to the next step depending on the outcome. Further details will be shared with those progressing.

Ready to start your journey?

You don't need to have your whole career figured out. If you're curious, eager to learn and excited to explore what the pharmaceutical industry has to offer, we'd love to hear from you.

Three rotations. Two years. Your future starts here.

Apply now and start your journey with Sanofi!

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