Automation Engineer – Controls & Automation

About the role

Trant Engineering is seeking an Automation Engineer to join its Controls & Automation division, Te‑Tech, in Southampton. You will design, program, test and commission automation and control systems for complex EPC projects across the UK and internationally.

Key responsibilities

• Design and configure PLC programs, HMI/SCADA interfaces, I/O schemes, telemetry and network architectures for control panels, MCCs and plant‑wide solutions.
• Collaborate with electrical, mechanical and design engineers to ensure seamless integration of automation hardware and software.
• Develop and optimise automation software to meet client specifications, improve efficiency and reliability.
• Support hardware selection, perform functional testing, FATs, SATs and on‑site commissioning, including short‑term travel.
• Maintain traceability of design changes, software versions and documentation, and support audits and risk assessments.

Required profile

• Hands‑on experience in PLC programming, HMI/SCADA design and automation system implementation.
• Proven ability to test, commission and troubleshoot control panels and automation equipment.
• Experience working from schematics, wiring diagrams and BOMs.
• Multi‑platform PLC experience (e.g., Siemens, Allen‑Bradley, Schneider) and ECS/CSCS site‑access card.
• HNC/HND or degree in Electrical, Control, Automation, Mechatronics or related field.

Required skills

• PLC programming (Siemens, Allen‑Bradley, Schneider)
• HMI/SCADA configuration
• Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT)
• MCC design and telemetry systems
• Networked industrial automation, IIoT and remote monitoring
• ECS/CSCS certification

What we offer

• Competitive salary and company car or allowance (depending on level)
• Mentored support through a Career Development Association and chartership pathway
• 24 days holiday plus bank holidays, flexible and hybrid working
• Company pension, professional membership paid annually and discretionary bonus
• On‑site parking, bike‑to‑work scheme and employee assistance programme