Lead Controls Engineer

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Lead Controls Engineer to head a team responsible for designing, developing and delivering advanced control systems. Reporting to the Controls Engineering Manager, you will provide both technical and people leadership to ensure high‑quality solutions are delivered safely, on time and to specification.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, coach and develop a team of Controls Engineers.
• Oversee design and development of PLC and HMI control software.
• Ensure projects are delivered on schedule, within budget and to engineering standards.
• Review and approve technical solutions and documentation.
• Collaborate with Mechanical, Electrical, Software and Manufacturing teams for integrated solutions.
• Lead software testing, validation and continuous improvement activities.
• Provide expert technical support for complex engineering issues.
• Support customer projects and undertake occasional site visits.

Required profile

• HND, Degree or equivalent in Controls Engineering, Software Engineering or related discipline.
• Proven experience leading engineering teams or acting as a senior technical lead.
• Strong background in developing industrial PLC and HMI control systems.
• Excellent communication, leadership and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple engineering projects and solve complex problems.

Required skills

• PLC programming
• HMI development
• Ladder Logic
• Structured Text
• Function Blocks
• Data Structures
• Software configuration management
• Technical documentation
• P&ID drawing interpretation
• Electrical schematic interpretation
• Modbus TCP
• EtherCAT
• PID control loops
• HAZOP
• FMEA

What we offer

• Up to 7.5% annual bonus
• Up to 8% employer pension contribution
• Life assurance, health cash plan and wellbeing programme
• Discounted gym memberships
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Free parking and subsidised canteen