Principal Mechanical Utilities Engineer

Company description: Wu Xi Biologics is a world-class biologics services provider (from discovery, through to commercialisation) with global clients in the biopharmaceutical and healthcare industries.
Our mission is to accelerate and transform discovery, development and manufacturing in the fast growing field of biologics to benefit patients worldwide.
The company has sites/offices in China, US, EU and Asia.
The company currently employs over 5,000 employees worldwide, and are providing services to over 200+ clients globally, including 13 of the top 20 biopharmaceutical companies.
Job description: As the Principal Mechanical Utility Engineer, you will be responsible for the safe, efficient operation and maintenance of all mechanical utility systems on site, ensuring full compliance with relevant regulatory, environmental, and safety standards.
This role entails full ownership of utility systems to deliver reliable, uninterrupted services to all users and processes across the facility.
The successful candidate will foster a culture of operational excellence, continuous improvement, and safety within the Utilities Engineering team.
As a senior leader, they will mentor engineers, support GMP operations, and ensure environmental licensing and sustainability targets are achieved.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities Serve as a senior representative for Utilities Engineering at Wu Xi Biologics Ireland.
Lead and manage all activities related to mechanical utility systems, including Plant steam, chilled water and compressed air.
Ensure systems are designed, commissioned, operated, and maintained to the highest standards.
Act as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) on all mechanical utility systems, ensuring compliance with regulatory and GMP requirements.
Collaborate with internal teams and external contractors/vendors to support departmental goals and system reliability.
Drive preventative and predictive maintenance strategies to maximise uptime and energy efficiency.
Lead preparations for regulatory inspections and internal/external audits.
Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), service level agreements (SLAs), and contractor performance.
Provide utilities engineering support during manufacturing campaigns, shutdowns, and capital projects.
Promote and support a strong EHS, sustainability, and ISO 50001 energy management culture.
Maintain accurate, up-to-date documentation within the sites maintenance and calibration systems.
Contribute to strategic planning, budgeting, and performance reporting for engineering operations.
Promote and exemplify the Wu Xi Biologics PROUD culture and core values.
Technical Competencies Extensive experience in mechanical utilities engineering within a regulated manufacturing environment.
Strong knowledge of GMP compliance, EHS, environmental licensing, energy efficiency, and wastewater systems.
Skilled in managing complex contractor relationships and utility service agreements.
Familiarity with ISO standards, particularly ISO 50001.
Experience 8+ years in engineering roles with emphasis on wastewater systems and EPA compliance.
Proven leadership in cross-functional teams and project delivery ideally within the pharmaceutical or biologics industry or other applicable industries.
Experience in strategic planning, budgeting, and performance reporting.
International or multi-site experience is advantageous.
Knowledge Demonstrates an in-depth understanding and experience in the application of Engineering principles, concepts, practice, and standards in the EU and internationally.
Significant expertise in relevant Utilities Engineering systems and processes.
Significant expertise in contractor/vendor control and management, including but not limited to set up and management of contracts (MSA/SLA).
Knowledge of safety, GMP, sustainability and environmental regulatory requirements.
Qualifications Bachelors degree (Level 8 NFQ or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
A masters degree and/or professional certification (e.g.
Chartered Engineer, PMP, Energy Manager) is advantageous.
Behavioural Competencies Demonstrates strong leadership and effective communication.
Highly organised, with the ability to manage competing priorities.
Collaborative and adaptable with a positive, proactive mindset.
Committed to mentoring and developing team members.
Ethical, self-driven, and capable of influencing across departments.
Enthusiastic about continuous improvement and sustainable practices.
Skills: Wastewater Systems GMP Compliance Project Management Budget Management Utilities Engineering Contractor Management Sustainability Benefits: Bonus Educational assistance Life Assurance Pension Sports & Social Club VHI