Automation Engineer – Controls & Automation

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Controls & Automation Engineer to join a well‑established, highly regulated manufacturing business in Cornwall. You will maintain and develop site automation systems while driving continuous‑improvement projects across production.

Key responsibilities

• Fault‑find, maintain and improve PLC and control systems on Allen Bradley, Siemens and Omron platforms.
• Provide technical support for production breakdowns and implement permanent corrective actions.
• Manage software backups, version control and system documentation.
• Design, specify and deliver automation improvements and new equipment projects.
• Collaborate with external suppliers through design, FAT, SAT, commissioning and hand‑over.
• Develop connectivity between production equipment and manufacturing systems to improve data collection and traceability.
• Validate software and automated equipment in line with quality and regulatory requirements.
• Ensure engineering changes follow robust change‑control procedures and are fully documented.
• Drive continuous‑improvement initiatives to increase OEE, reduce waste and improve product quality.
• Identify automation obsolescence risks and develop upgrade strategies.
• Support and mentor colleagues on controls and automation best practices.

Required profile

• HNC or higher qualification in Electrical, Controls or Automation Engineering.
• Strong PLC programming and fault‑finding experience.
• Proven delivery of automation or controls projects within a regulated manufacturing environment (e.g., medical devices, pharmaceuticals, food, aerospace).
• Knowledge of industrial communication networks, automated production equipment and machine integration.
• Proactive problem‑solver with a passion for continuous improvement.

Required skills

• Allen Bradley
• Siemens
• Omron
• PLC programming
• Industrial communication networks
• Machine integration
• FAT (Factory Acceptance Testing)
• SAT (Site Acceptance Testing)
• Commissioning

What we offer

• Salary up to £60,000 per year.
• 4% employer pension contribution (matched with 4% employee contribution).
• 22 days holiday plus bank holidays.
• Early finish on Fridays (2:30 pm).
• Stable, long‑term role with genuine scope to influence automation strategy and future investment.
• Monday‑Thursday 8:30 am‑5:00 pm, Friday 8:30 am‑2:30 pm.