Controls Engineer

Northcore Systems Ltd.; Runcorn; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Northcore Systems designs, builds, and secures operational technology for critical industrial processes in the UK, with a focus on EC&I design and robust OT cybersecurity. The Controls Engineer will design, develop, and implement control systems, including PLC/HMI programming, testing, and commissioning, while collaborating with project teams, suppliers, and clients.

Based in Runcorn with a hybrid work arrangement, the role emphasizes safe-site operations, clear technical documentation, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems, Mechatronics, or related field.
• Experience with PLC/HMI programming and industrial communication protocols.
• Ability to work safely on industrial sites and manage multiple tasks.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement control systems for industrial processes.
• Create and review electrical control schematics and support EC&I design activities.
• Test, commission, and troubleshoot control systems to ensure reliability and safety.
• Prepare technical documentation and provide post-installation support.

Skills

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Written & verbal communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related

Tools

Siemens PLC

Rockwell PLC

Schneider PLC

HMI programming

Job description

Company Description Northcore Systems designs, builds, and secures operational technology that supports critical industrial processes across the UK. As Industrial Control System specialists, the company delivers comprehensive EC&I design, reliable PLC/HMI software, rigorous testing and commissioning, and robust OT cybersecurity for secure-by-design systems. The team focuses on creating well-engineered solutions that operate efficiently and perform reliably in demanding real-world environments where downtime and security breaches carry high consequences. Northcore Systems is committed to helping clients strengthen and protect their industrial systems, making them more resilient and harder to compromise.

Role Description This is a full-time Controls Engineer role based in Runcorn with a hybrid work arrangement, allowing some work from home. The Controls Engineer will design, develop, and implement control systems for industrial processes, including specification, configuration, and programming of PLCs, HMIs, and related automation equipment. Daily responsibilities include creating and reviewing electrical control schematics, supporting EC&I design activities, conducting system testing and commissioning, and troubleshooting control systems to ensure reliable performance and safety. The role involves collaborating with project teams, suppliers, and clients to gather requirements, propose technical solutions, and support secure-by-design implementation in line with OT cybersecurity best practices. The Controls Engineer will also prepare technical documentation, provide post-installation support, and contribute to continuous improvement of standards and engineering practices.

Qualifications

• Strong problem solving skills, with experience applying these skills in industrial environments.
• Proficiency in Electrical Engineering principles related to control systems, including reading and developing electrical schematics.
• Hands-on Troubleshooting skills for PLCs, HMIs, field devices, and control networks.
• Practical experience with Robotics and/or automation equipment integration and commissioning.
• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience) in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems, Mechatronics, or a related discipline.
• Experience with PLC/HMI programming (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell, Schneider or similar) and industrial communication protocols.
• High-level Understanding of specialist engineering concepts such as ATEX, Functional Safety / OT Cyber Security in industrial control systems is beneficial.
• Ability to work safely on industrial sites, manage multiple tasks, and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce clear technical documentation.
• Prior experience in UK industrial sectors (such as manufacturing, utilities, or process industries) is an advantage.