Controls Engineer

Ntwrx; Coventry; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturer of special purpose machinery is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer to join their team in Coventry. The successful candidate will be involved in the design, development, and commissioning of bespoke automation systems. Responsibilities include programming PLCs, collaborating on system integration, and providing technical support. A degree in Electrical Engineering or similar is preferred, along with strong problem-solving and communication skills. The role requires willingness to travel for commissioning, both nationally and internationally.

Qualifications

• Proven experience programming industrial PLCs such as Siemens TIA Portal and Rockwell.
• Strong understanding of motion control, servos, robotics, and mechatronic systems.
• Background in special purpose machinery, automation, robotics, or high-speed manufacturing equipment.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop PLC, HMI, and motion control software for automation equipment.
• Support the full project lifecycle including concept design, build, test, and commissioning.
• Commission machines at customer sites in the UK and overseas.

Skills

Programming industrial PLCs

Strong understanding of motion control

Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics

Problem-solving abilities

Communication skills

Team-working skills

Education

Degree, HNC, or HND in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Siemens TIA Portal

Rockwell / Allen-Bradley

Mitsubishi

Beckhoff

Omron

CAD / ECAD tools (ePLAN, AutoCAD Electrical)

Job description

Job Specification

Controls Engineer

Special Purpose Machinery (Coventry)

Job Title

Controls Engineer

Location

Coventry (with occasional UK and international travel for commissioning)

Employment Type

Full-time, Permanent

Department

Automation & Controls Engineering

Overview

Our client, a leading manufacturer of special purpose machinery , is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer to join their automation team. The successful candidate will play a key role in the design, development, programming, and commissioning of bespoke automated machinery used across high-tech manufacturing sectors. This position offers hands‑on involvement from concept through to commissioning, with exposure to innovative technologies and complex automation challenges.

Key Responsibilities

Design & Development

Design and develop PLC, HMI, and motion control software for bespoke automation equipment.

Create functional design specifications, control philosophies, and I / O schedules.

Develop machine sequencing, safety logic, diagnostics, and operator interfaces.

Project Engineering

Work closely with mechanical, electrical, and software teams to ensure seamless system integration.

Support the full project lifecycle including concept design, build, test, and commissioning.

Participate in FAT, SAT, and validation processes for custom-built machinery.

Commissioning & Support

Commission machines at the Coventry facility and at customer sites (UK and occasionally overseas).

Diagnose and resolve control system issues, ensuring reliable operation and performance.

Provide technical support during installation, acceptance testing, and after‑sales phases.

Documentation & Compliance

Produce and maintain accurate documentation including wiring diagrams, test plans, and software backups.

Ensure systems comply with relevant standards (e.g., IEC 61131, Machinery Directive, CE / UKCA).

Collaborate with the safety team to support risk assessments and safety validation.

Required Skills & Experience

Technical Skills

Proven experience programming industrial PLCs (e.g., Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell / Allen‑Bradley, Mitsubishi, Beckhoff, Omron).

Strong understanding of motion control, servos, robotics, and mechatronic systems.

HMI / SCADA development experience

Knowledge of industrial communications (EtherCAT, Profinet, Ethernet / IP, etc.).

Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and mechanical layouts.

Industry Experience

Background in special purpose machinery, automation, robotics, or high‑speed manufacturing equipment.

Experience in industries such as automotive, aerospace, packaging, pharmaceuticals, or FMCG would be advantageous.

Professional Skills

Strong problem‑solving abilities with a hands‑on approach to engineering challenges.

Ability to manage workload across multiple projects.

Strong communication and team‑working skills.

Willingness to travel for commissioning as required.

Preferred Qualifications

Degree, HNC, or HND in Electrical Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, or similar.

Experience with safety PLCs and functional safety implementation (SIL / PL).

Familiarity with CAD / ECAD tools (ePLAN, AutoCAD Electrical).

Knowledge of robotics platforms (Fanuc, ABB, KUKA) is a plus.