Controls Engineer

About the role

An established engineering business specialising in bespoke automated machinery is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer. You will join a multidisciplinary team to design, program, commission and continuously improve automation solutions for a range of industrial customers.

Key responsibilities

• Develop PLC software and machine control systems for custom automation projects.
• Produce functional specifications and comprehensive control documentation.
• Ensure control systems meet current safety standards and engineering best practices.
• Support design reviews, risk assessments and feasibility studies.
• Commission, test and fault‑find PLC‑controlled equipment both in‑house and on‑site.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical and project engineers throughout the project lifecycle.
• Assist with Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and customer acceptance activities.
• Provide technical support to installation and commissioning teams.
• Maintain technical documentation for each project.
• Liaise with customers, suppliers and internal stakeholders to ensure successful delivery.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the engineering department.

Required profile

• HNC, HND or degree in Electrical, Controls or Automation Engineering, or equivalent industry experience.
• Previous role as a Controls Engineer in industrial automation or special‑purpose machinery.
• Strong PLC programming experience with Siemens S7/TIA Portal.
• Understanding of machinery, automation systems and mechanical engineering principles.
• Experience commissioning and fault‑finding automated equipment.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
• Familiarity with CAD packages such as EPLAN or AutoCAD is advantageous.

Required skills

• Siemens S7
• TIA Portal
• PLC programming
• Ford FAST Programming
• Schneider Electric Unity
• PL7
• EPLAN
• AutoCAD
• Microsoft Office