At Abbott, you play a crucial role in helping people live more fully at all stages of their lives. We are a global healthcare leader with a diverse portfolio of life-changing technologies that span the spectrum of healthcare.
Our company employs over 113,000 colleagues worldwide and has a significant presence in Ireland, where we have been making a difference in the lives of Irish people since 1946.
We are committed to developing innovative solutions for complex problems in the field of diabetes care. Our new manufacturing facility in Kilkenny is a centre for world-class engineering, quality, medical device manufacturing, and other science-based professionals who produce life-changing technologies that enable people with diabetes to live their best lives.
Job Description
As a Materials Engineer Lead, you will work closely with the Materials Engineering Manager and wider Technical Services team to support the introduction of new or changed materials/components to our site. You will troubleshoot and resolve material-related challenges by completing investigations, determining root cause, reporting findings, and proposing solutions.
Main Responsibilities:
1. Identify root causes of component-related manufacturing issues using structured problem-solving techniques.
2. Develop Design of Experiments (DOEs), conduct testing, analyze data, and report findings for continuous improvement initiatives.
3. Perform empirical and experimental analyses to inform decision-making based on data insights.
4. Collaborate with site operations to resolve material-related challenges and meet site goals.
5. Support validation activities related to material changes and R&D material trials, providing constructive feedback.
6. Monitor the performance of parts and implement actions to enhance performance.
7. Evaluate proposed changes and alternative components/designs for efficacy and efficiency.
8. Assist in resolving Quality Incidents and Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA).
9. Capture materials-related learnings from initial production lines to inform future processes.
10. Apply LEAN methodologies to drive operational excellence throughout the organization.
11. Contribute to the delivery of site-specific Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and maintain visual dashboards for reporting.
12. Engage in cross-functional activities to promote continual improvement, safety, and compliance.
13. Analyze complex processes and problems, identifying areas for improvement and risk mitigation.
14. Use data analysis to identify trends and opportunities for improvements while ensuring compliance with industry standards and global regulations.
15. Propose and support new methods or materials to enhance quality and efficiency.
16. Provide technical support to fellow engineers and mentor junior associates within the team.
17. Assist relevant site teams with Bills of Materials (BOMs) and Agile-related work.
18. Cultivate a strong understanding of Abbott Quality Policy and Procedures.
Requirements
* Minimum NFQ Level 8 Qualification in Engineering, Science, or a related discipline.
* At least 7 years of experience in a manufacturing environment; GxP experience preferred.
* Proficiency in working with materials/components, including electrical, molded, or mechanical systems.
* Demonstrated experience in resolving technical challenges on high-volume automation lines.
* Familiarity with root cause analysis tools such as 6M, Ishikawa, DMAIC, and Six Sigma methodologies.
What We Offer
Attractive compensation package that includes competitive pay, family health insurance, excellent pension scheme, life assurance, career development, fantastic new facility, growing business, and access to many more benefits.