Control Systems Engineer

Vantage Consulting; Sulham; On-site; GBP 63,000 - 77,000; Full time

Job summary

Vantage Consulting is seeking a Senior Control Systems Engineer for an on-site role in Reading. The position offers up to £70k per year and focuses on end-to-end control systems projects within utilities sectors.

You will survey sites, design and program PLC/HMI/SCADA systems, and lead FAT/SAT activities while producing clear RAMS and technical documentation. Strong PLC experience and UK driving licence are essential.

Qualifications

• Experience in industrial automation and control systems.

Responsibilities

• Carry out site surveys and produce clear, structured reports.
• Develop high-quality Functional Design Specifications (FDS).
• Design, program, and configure PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems.
• Lead and deliver FAT, CFAT, and SAT.
• Produce RAMS (Risk Assessments and Method Statements).
• Support installation, commissioning, and fault-finding activities on site.
• Manage project documentation, deliverables, and technical communications.
• Collaborate with colleagues and mentor junior engineers.

Skills

Industrial automation

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Site delivery

Electrical awareness

Documentation

Project management

Communication skills

Driving licence

Tools

Allen-Bradley PLC

Siemens PLC

HMI/SCADA software

Job description

Senior Control Systems Engineer

Reading

Up to 70k

My client is an established engineering organisation specialising in industrial automation, control systems, and process solutions, primarily within the utilities sector. They deliver end-to-end projects including design, software development, installation, and commissioning.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out site surveys and produce clear, structured reports
• Develop high-quality Functional Design Specifications (FDS)
• Design, program, and configure PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems
• Lead and deliver Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT), Customer FAT (CFAT), and Site Acceptance Tests (SAT)
• Produce Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS)
• Support installation, commissioning, and fault-finding activities on site
• Manage project documentation, deliverables, and technical communications
• Collaborate with colleagues and support junior engineers through mentoring and training

Essential Skills & Experience

• Experience in industrial automation and control systems
• Strong PLC programming experience (e.g. Allen Bradley or similar platforms)
• Knowledge of HMI/SCADA systems and process control principles
• Experience with commissioning and on-site delivery
• Electrical awareness and ability to work safely around control equipment
• Strong attention to detail in both software and documentation
• Effective communication skills (written and verbal)
• Ability to manage projects through to completion
• Competent IT and documentation skills
• Full UK driving licence

Desirable Skills

• Experience with a range of PLC platforms (e.g. ControlLogix, Siemens, Mitsubishi)
• Familiarity with SCADA platforms (e.g. Wonderware, Iconics, Schneider)
• Industrial networking knowledge (e.g. Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP)
• Experience with instrumentation (flow, level, pressure, drives)
• Electrical design or panel experience (including reading drawings)
• Experience within the utilities or water sector