Automation Project Engineer – PLC/SCADA Lead

Tata Steel UK Limited; Port Talbot; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

35 days holidays per annum

Annual Pay Review

Bonus Scheme

Private Healthcare Scheme

Pension scheme (defined contribution)

Job summary

Tata Steel UK Limited in Port Talbot is seeking a Project Engineer (Automation) to drive advanced control systems across major industrial projects. You will lead PLC/SCADA delivery, manage contractors, and ensure safety and quality from concept through commissioning.

The role requires strong automation expertise, experience with Siemens S7/TIA Portal, and ability to coordinate multi-disciplinary teams in a heavy industry environment. Competitive salary and strong benefits package available.

Qualifications

• Strong background in industrial automation and control systems.
• Proven experience with PLC/SCADA design, configuration, and commissioning.
• Experience with Siemens S7 (TIA Portal) and WinCC (highly desirable).
• Knowledge of industrial communication networks (e.g. PROFINET, Profibus, Modbus TCP/IP).
• Understanding of relevant standards (IEC, BS EN, functional safety, cybersecurity).
• Ability to manage complex projects and multiple stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead automation delivery across major projects, overseeing PLC, SCADA, and instrumentation systems to ensure they meet scope, schedule, and quality targets.
• Manage system integrators and EPC contractors, reviewing technical deliverables such as P&IDs, Functional Design Specifications (FDS), Software Design Specifications (SDS), FAT/SAT procedures, and as-built documentation.
• Develop and execute project plans covering engineering, construction, and commissioning activities aligned with long-term site strategy.
• Own the full lifecycle of automation projects, including: Concept development and system design; Detailed engineering (PLC, SCADA, instrumentation); FAT/SAT; Installation, commissioning, and system integration; Operator training and final handover.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards (IEC, BS EN), functional safety requirements, and industrial cybersecurity best practices.
• Prepare specifications and RFQs, evaluate bids, and support vendor selection.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges during design, integration, and commissioning.
• Collaborate across disciplines (electrical, mechanical, process) to deliver fully integrated solutions.
• Lead commissioning activities, including loop checks, cause & effect testing, and performance validation.
• Drive safety excellence, organising and facilitating HAZOP, LOPA, SIL and risk assessments.
• Manage change control through formal Management of Change (MoC) processes

Skills

Industrial automation

PLC/SCADA design

Siemens S7 (TIA Portal)

Industrial networks

Standards & cybersecurity

Project management

Education

Degree in Electrical, Electronic, Automation Engineering or related discipline

Job description

Tata Steel UK Limited in Port Talbot is seeking a Project Engineer (Automation) to drive advanced control systems across major industrial projects. You will lead PLC/SCADA delivery, manage contractors, and ensure safety and quality from concept through commissioning.

The role requires strong automation expertise, experience with Siemens S7/TIA Portal, and ability to coordinate multi-disciplinary teams in a heavy industry environment. Competitive salary and strong benefits package available.