Most commonly reported Work Activities

•   Handling and Moving Objects Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
•   Controlling Machines and Processes Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
•   Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
•   Performing General Physical Activities Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.
•   Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
•   Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorising, estimating, recognising differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
•   Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
•   Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
•   Documenting/Recording Information Entering, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
•   Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.

Working Life

Process development scientists find and develop new processes, as well as improving existing ones. They work to reduce costs, increase efficiency and safety, improve product quality and find environmentally-friendly processes.

Once scientists have developed a research prototype of a new product in the laboratory, process development scientists find out how to standardise the item and produce it on a larger scale. This is known as 'scaling up'. Process development scientists study technical reports of the prototype. Then, they write their own reports to specify how the process needed to develop it should work.

They are very much part of a team, working alongside people such as research scientists, engineers and technicians. For example, they discuss computer-aided design (CAD) models and research papers. They get advice from engineers to make sure the right materials are available to make the product. Process development scientists can work with suppliers, contract managers and customers. They might lead teams, including other scientists and technicians, and have overall responsibility for the cost, safety and timescale of the project.

Increasingly, process development scientists also need to take account of environmental issues. They consider ways to reduce the amount of energy used in the process, or the possibility of using materials that can be recycled. They plan and carry out a pilot test on the most promising process, carefully recording and analysing the results. This might uncover technical problems that they must solve before manufacturing can begin.

When a decision has been made on the best process to use, they set up and test the process in the laboratory, studying it carefully. Process development scientists often use sophisticated technology, including computers, to monitor process and production trials, and to find and identify faults. They use technology to measure and control conditions such as pressure and temperature, for example, in metal and aerospace industries.

Process development scientists also carry out risk assessments to make sure the process is safe, and to identify any training needs for the staff who will use the new equipment and technology. They check and follow safety laws and regulations. They evaluate the process trials, identifying and tackling any problems. Depending on the results of these trials, full-scale production will then begin.

Process development scientists regularly evaluate production, demonstrating that the process is an improvement on the previous one and identifying any new steps, methods or technology needed to make sure the process keeps improving. If they need to, they will advise that a piece of machinery or a raw material must be changed to make the process more efficient or to reduce costs.

Process development scientists sometimes need to wear protective clothing such as gloves and masks. They might have to travel to production sites, to assess a trial or full-scale production.

Most commonly reported Work Tasks

• Inspect materials and products for defects, and to ensure conformance to specifications.
• Record production and operational data, such as amount of materials processed.
• Push dual control buttons and move controls to start, stop, or adjust machinery and equipment.
• Weigh or measure materials or products to ensure conformance to specifications.
• Identify and mark materials, products, and samples, following instructions.
• Clean and maintain machinery, equipment, and work areas to ensure proper functioning and safe working conditions.
• Load materials and products into machines and equipment, or onto conveyors, using hand tools and moving devices.
• Transfer materials and products to and from machinery and equipment, using industrial trucks or hand trucks.
• Fasten, package, or stack materials and products, using hand tools and fastening equipment.
• Remove materials and products from machines and equipment, and place them in boxes, trucks or conveyors, using hand tools and moving devices.

This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:

 Investigative

The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.

 Realist

Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.

Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.

 Administrative

Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.

They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.

To become a Process Development Scientist, you will need a degree.  Process scientists may work in a variety of industries, and a number of subjects are relevant. These include chemistry, physics, biology, biochemistry and materials science.  

Process manufacturing engineers have typically completed an appropriate engineering degree, generally at honours level. A masters qualification (MEng) may also be required.

Manufacturing engineers come from a wide variety of engineering backgrounds, including electrical and electronic, mechanical, chemical, telecommunications and aeronautical engineering. There are many pathways to building up skills & qualifications to progress towards a career in engineering.

Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research. 

Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.

Example search terms include: engineering technology, engineering operations, manufacturing technician, maintenance skills technology, quality management, quality assurance, pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Search for FET Courses

PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.

Example search terms include: engineering, pre apprenticeship.

Search for PLC Courses

Apprenticeships: 
Apprenticeships are structured work-based training programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They run from 2 – 4 years and are open to individuals of all ages, including school leavers, those seeking a career change, and existing employees who wish to upskill.

Examples: Manufacturing, Engineering, Laboratory, Lean Sigma, Principal Engineer.

Search for Apprenticeships

Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate) 
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.

Example search terms include: engineering, general entry, engineering in mechanical, manufacturing engineering, automation engineering , chemical, biochemical, mechanical, manufacturing engineering design, sustainable energy, environmental engineering.

Search for CAO Courses

Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).

Example search terms include: engineering, process instrumentation and automation, mechanical engineering, manufacturing process, automation systems, process energy, transport engineering, research, process validation, regulatory affairs, design, innovation, design thinking management.

Search for Postgraduate Courses

Springboard courses engineering, management at NFQ level 8-9 search Springboard courses.

Professional Development 

Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.

• Engineering Skillnet
• Engineers Ireland

Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.

Salary Range (thousands per year)* €35k - €80k

Salaries vary based on employer, location, experience, duties, and role.

Data Source(s):
Brightwater / CPL / Azon/ Morgan McKinley / Sigmar / Collins McNicholas

Last Updated: July, 2024

This occupation has been identified as a Job in Demand by the most recent National Skills Bulletin.

Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Laboratory technicians; Electrical and electronic technicians; Engineering technicians Quality assurance; technicians Planning, process and production; technicians Science, engineering and production technicians n.e.c.

This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2023).

Employment levels fell between 2021 and 2022, by approximately 3,000 persons, but remained above 2017 levels, resulting in a positive, but below average, annual average growth rate for the five-year period. Employment for this occupation was primarily in industry (accounting for a 60% share of employment). Employment permits issued were across a variety of technician roles (e.g. process, manufacturing, laboratory). The Recruitment Agency Survey identified vacancies for maintenance technicians in manufacturing with electrical/mechanical skills as difficult-to-fill.

Employers (Skills for Growth) experienced difficulties in filling a range of engineering technician roles, including aircraft technicians and manufacturing technicians, particularly for those with digital skills and knowledge of procedures/processes. There was a 3% increase in the number of online job adverts in 2022, driven by increases in electrical/electronic technicians and, to a lesser extent, laboratory technicians.

New apprenticeship registrations for a number of industry related technicians (including lab analysts) have risen strongly since the first of these programmes were introduced in 2017; by 2022 there were 314 new registrations across a range of apprenticeships (lab analyst, manufacturing technology, OEM engineer etc.) up from approximately 100 in 2017. Although demand seems to be lessening for these roles, issues with attracting suitable candidates remain for maintenance and laboratory technicians in particular, at least in the short-term.

• Science Foundation Ireland

  • Wilton Park House, Wilton Place, Dublin, 2
  • 01 - 607 3200
  • [email protected]
  • Click Here

• Skillsnets manufacturing Sector

  • 5th Floor, Q House, Furze Road, Sandyford, Dublin 18, Ireland, D18 E268
  • 01 2079630
  • [email protected]
  • Click Here

• Smart Futures

  • Discover Science & Engineering, Wilton Park House, Wilton Place, Dublin, 2
  • Click Here