Automation Controls Engineer

Smurfit Westrock; Northampton; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock is seeking an Automation Controls Engineer to lead design, programming, testing and commissioning of automation projects in a fast-paced packaging environment. You will act as the site expert for PLC and control systems, troubleshoot issues and drive improvements in uptime and OEE.

Our ideal candidate has strong PLC programming skills, knowledge of industrial control systems and is proactive about safety and continuous improvement while collaborating across production,

Qualifications

• Strong PLC programming and troubleshooting experience, including ladder logic.
• Knowledge of industrial control systems, electrical schematics and automation technologies.
• Experience with AC/DC motors, drives, servos and 3-phase power systems.
• A proactive approach to safety, problem-solving and continuous improvement.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, programming, testing and commissioning of automation projects.
• Act as the site expert for PLC and control systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve electrical and control system issues.
• Drive improvements in uptime, reliability and OEE.
• Maintain accurate technical documentation and control system standards.

Skills

PLC programming

Ladder logic

Industrial controls

Electrical schematics

Motors and drives

Servos

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Communication

Education

Degree or HNC/HND

Apprenticeship qualification

Tools

Siemens

Mitsubishi

Allen-Bradley

Omron

Job description

Are you passionate about automation, controls and continuous improvement? Join us and play a key role in maintaining safe, reliable and efficient manufacturing operations within a fast-paced packaging environment.

As our Automation Controls Engineer, you'll lead the development of control systems, drive automation projects, improve equipment performance and ensure the highest safety standards are embedded in everything we do.

What You'll Be Doing

Safety & Compliance

• Champion a strong safety culture and ensure automation systems operate safely and compliantly.
• Support machinery safety systems, electrical safety procedures (LOTOTO), and Permit to Work processes.
• Identify and eliminate control system risks, single points of failure and obsolete equipment.

Automation & Controls

• Act as the site expert for PLC and control systems.
• Lead the design, programming, testing and commissioning of automation projects.
• Troubleshoot and resolve electrical and control system issues.
• Maintain accurate technical documentation and control system standards.

Continuous Improvement

• Drive improvements in uptime, reliability and Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE).
• Modernise manufacturing equipment and introduce new technologies.
• Work collaboratively with production, maintenance, quality and safety teams to optimise plant performance.

What We're Looking For

• Strong PLC programming and troubleshooting experience, including ladder logic.
• Knowledge of industrial control systems, electrical schematics and automation technologies.
• Experience with AC/DC motors, drives, servos and 3-phase power systems.
• A proactive approach to safety, problem-solving and continuous improvement.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills.

Your Background

We're interested in talented engineers from a range of manufacturing sectors, including:

• Packaging
• FMCG
• Food & Beverage
• Automotive
• Pharmaceutical
• Process or Automated Manufacturing

Experience with Siemens, Mitsubishi, Allen-Bradley, Omron or similar PLC platforms would be highly beneficial.

Whether you hold a degree, HNC/HND, apprenticeship qualification or have gained your expertise through hands-on industry experience, we'd love to hear from you.

Why Join Us?

• Make a real impact in a business where safety comes first.
• Lead meaningful automation and improvement projects.
• Work with modern manufacturing technologies.
• Join an inclusive and supportive team where your ideas are valued.

We believe diverse teams create stronger results. If you're excited about this opportunity but don't meet every desired requirement, we encourage you to apply.