Controls Engineer

Automation Experts; Leicester Forest East; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Car

Site uplift

Pension

Bonus

Paid overtime

Job summary

Automation Experts in the UK seeks a hands-on Controls Engineer to design, develop and commission bespoke automation systems for global manufacturing clients.

You will lead PLC software development, sensor/actuator integration, HMI configuration, and machine control during build, test and commissioning across multi-disciplinary teams. International travel will be required to install and validate systems.

Qualifications

• Proven ability to write and commission PLC software.
• Background of control system design for special purpose machinery.
• Strong understanding of industrial automation, safety systems, and I/O architectures.
• Experience with machine-level programming and commissioning.

Responsibilities

• Design and implementation of PLC control systems for bespoke machinery.
• Programming and integration of machine I/O, sensors, actuators, and motion control systems.
• PLC programming and hardware integration.
• HMI development and user interface configuration.
• Machine control systems support during build, test, and commissioning phases.
• Work with software, mechanical, and electrical teams for seamless integration.
• Travel internationally to support installations and commissioning.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

Control system design

Motion control

Fault-finding

Job description

Are you a hands-on Controls Engineer who loves bringing complex machines to life? Join a well-established UK engineering business leading the design and delivery of special-purpose automation systems used across cutting-edge manufacturing industries worldwide.

This is your chance to work on innovative, bespoke projects — from concept to commissioning — alongside a talented, multidisciplinary engineering team. No two projects are the same, and your work will have a real, tangible impact on how global manufacturers operate.

Controls Engineer

£45-60k + Car, Site Uplift, Pension, Bonus, Paid Overtime

Leicestershire.Ref: 24936

Controls Engineer - The Role:

• Design and implementation of PLC control systems for bespoke machinery
• Programming and integration of machine I/O, sensors, actuators, and motion control systems
• PLC programming and hardware integration
• HMI development and user interface configuration
• Machine control systems support during build, test, and commissioning phases
• Work closely with software, mechanical, and electrical teams to ensure seamless system integration
• Travelling internationally to support installations and commissioning — see your designs in action around the world!

Controls Engineer - The Person:

• Proven ability to write & commission PLC software
• Background of control system design for special purpose machinery
• Strong understanding of industrial automation, safety systems, and I/O architectures
• Experience with machine-level programming and commissioning
• Logical and methodical approach to fault-finding and testing
• Full UK working rights and valid passport
• Any experience of Beckhoff advantageous, not essential

Desirable Attributes

• Experience with motion control and vision systems
• Ability to manage time and priorities across multiple projects
• Self-motivated, flexible, and solution-focused
• Capable of clearly documenting control logic and configurations

You’ll join a forward-thinking company that values innovation, quality, and teamwork. Based in modern Leicestershire facilities, you’ll enjoy variety, challenge, and the excitement of seeing your work come to life in global installations — all while developing your technical expertise and career.

If you’re passionate about automation and looking for a role that combines engineering depth with international adventure, we’d love to hear from you.