Controls Engineer - Robotics

Mane Contract Services; Dorchester; Hybrid; GBP 38,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading industrial automation firm is seeking a skilled Controls Engineer to join their Software Engineering team. You will be responsible for integrating and programming industrial robotic systems, primarily using Fanuc robots. The role offers a dynamic working environment with hybrid options and requires the successful applicant to have a strong background in robotics, a passion for automation, and the ability to travel across sites in the UK. The position also includes generous benefits and a supportive work culture.

Benefits

Flexible working environment

25 days holiday + bank holidays

Occupational sick pay

Company pension

Cycle to work scheme

Holiday buy/sell scheme

Free parking

Generous overnight allowance when travelling

Qualifications

• 3+ years' experience programming Fanuc robots at an advanced level.
• Experience using Roboguide and programming Siemens S7 PLCs.
• Willingness to travel and work autonomously.

Responsibilities

• Develop software for diverse industrial robotic systems.
• Integrate and commission new robotic equipment.
• Collaborate with team members on complex automation projects.

Skills

Programming Fanuc robots

Technical communication skills

Learning new technologies

Diagnosing electrical issues

Education

STEM degree (preferably Engineering)

Tools

Roboguide

Siemens S7 PLCs

TIA Portal

Job description

Overview

Job: Controls Engineer - Robotics
Type: Permanent, On-site
Location: Bristol or Dorchester
Salary: £38,000 - £45,000

About Our Client

Our client is recruiting for a Controls Engineer to join their growing Software Engineering team, integrating devices and machinery to operate together to solve complex automation problems. They are an industrial automation specialist with many years of experience delivering state-of-the-art solutions to household name companies. With a world-leading reputation for solving difficult industrial problems, they specialise in robotics and the aerospace sector.

The Role

Please note: applications are only being accepted from candidates based in the UK.

To support the successful delivery of new and exciting projects, our client is seeking a skilled Controls Engineer with experience integrating and programming industrial robotic systems. Candidates with strong experience on Fanuc robots are of particular interest, including commissioning, writing TP & Karel programs, and using them to solve complex industrial problems.

The scope of projects is highly varied—from simple machines carrying out dedicated tasks to complex customisable cells with multiple robots, production steps, and integrated technologies such as cameras, lasers, waterjet cutters, and even chainsaws. Each bespoke machine must operate seamlessly, with all constituent parts working together.

As a Controls Engineer, you will develop software using a diverse codebase. Our client utilizes a wide range of industrial robotic and controls platforms, including Fanuc and Kuka robots, Beckhoff and Siemens PLCs, alongside many other devices with their own environments and languages. You will be confident in commissioning new equipment, following technical manuals, and debugging common electrical issues.

This is a dynamic role where no two days or projects are the same. The successful applicant will have a passion for robotics and automation, a curious and inquisitive mindset, and strong problem-solving skills. You will be proactive in learning new technologies and have a natural ability for making systems work.

The role can be Hybrid, with regular travel required to offices in Bristol and Dorchester, and visits to client sites across several sectors, including defence. As a result, the successful candidate must be a British Citizen and able to obtain security clearance up to Developed Vetting (DV) level.

Essential Skills & Experience

• 3+ years' experience programming Fanuc robots at an advanced level
• STEM degree (preferably Engineering)
• Experience using Roboguide
• Strong technical communication skills (written & verbal English)
• Ability and willingness to learn new technologies quickly
• Able to work autonomously and on own initiative
• Competent diagnosing common electrical issues
• Willing and able to travel

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Experience commissioning and programming Siemens S7 PLCs and TIA Portal
• PLC programming in IEC (Structured Text essential)
• Motion control, including VFD setup and drive tuning
• Functional Safety (designing, programming, validating)
• Experience with other industrial automation devices

What's on Offer

• Flexible working environment
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays
• Occupational sick pay
• Company pension
• Cycle to work scheme
• Holiday buy/sell scheme
• Free parking
• Friendly and supportive work environment
• Generous overnight allowance when travelling

How to Apply

To apply for the role of Controls Engineer, please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining your relevant experience.

Equal Opportunities

Our client is an Equal Opportunities Employer, committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of age, sexual orientation, gender, pregnancy, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, disability, medical history, skin colour, marital status, genetic information, or parental status. All employment decisions are based on merit, job requirements, and business needs.