Automation Engineer

Pearson Whiffin Recruitment Ltd; England; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialist automation company based in East Kent is seeking a skilled Field Engineer to install and maintain bespoke automation and control systems. The role involves UK-wide travel and offers a competitive salary based on experience. Ideal candidates should have strong PLC programming skills and a background in industrial automation, along with excellent problem-solving abilities and a full UK driving license. Exciting projects and career progression opportunities available.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Early finish on Fridays

Exciting projects

Career progression opportunities

Qualifications

• Strong background in industrial automation and control systems.
• Experience in PLC programming and knowledge of industrial protocols.
• Ability to read technical schematics and engineering drawings.

Responsibilities

• Install, commission, and maintain automation systems at client sites.
• Diagnose and repair complex electrical and software systems.
• Provide on-site technical support and training for clients.

Skills

Industrial automation knowledge

PLC programming experience

SCADA systems familiarity

Problem-solving skills

Ability to work autonomously

Tools

PLC systems (Siemens, Allen Bradley, Mitsubishi)

HMI interfaces

SCADA systems

Job description

Overview

Field Engineer Automation & Control Systems – Location: Based in East Kent with UK-wide travel to client sites; Salary: Competitive, DOE; Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

Pearson Whiffin Recruitment are currently recruiting for a technically skilled Field Engineer to join a specialist automation company based in the Ramsgate area. This is an exciting and varied role offering the opportunity to work on cutting-edge, bespoke automation systems designed for high-profile clients in the data centre and manufacturing sectors.

Responsibilities

• Install, commission, and maintain bespoke automation and control systems on client sites
• Carry out diagnostics, fault-finding, and repairs across complex electrical and software systems
• Program and configure PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, and industrial networking devices
• Provide on-site technical support and training to clients
• Collaborate with internal design and software teams to ensure seamless project delivery
• Produce and maintain technical documentation, service reports, and system logs
• Travel across the UK as required, with occasional overnight stays

Essential Skills & Experience

• Strong background in industrial automation and control systems
• Hands-on experience with PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen Bradley, Mitsubishi)
• Experience with SCADA systems, HMI interfaces, and industrial communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP)
• Good understanding of electrical panels, sensors, actuators, and industrial safety systems
• Ability to read and interpret technical schematics and engineering drawings
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work autonomously
• Full UK driving licence

Desirable

• Previous experience working within data centres or high-spec manufacturing environments
• Familiarity with integration into Building Management Systems (BMS) or Energy Management platforms
• Knowledge of commissioning and supporting UPS systems, HVAC controls, or power distribution

What’s in it for you?

• Competitive salary dependent on experience
• Early finish on a Friday!
• Opportunity to work on some exciting projects
• Progression available