Controls Software Engineer / Senior Controls Software Engineer

Applied Automation (UK) Ltd; Plymouth; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a talented Controls Software Engineer to join their Engineering Solutions Division. This role involves designing and developing high-quality automation software for various industries, including Medical Technology and Automotive. You will take ownership of projects from concept to customer handover, ensuring compliance with safety standards. The position offers an exciting opportunity to work in a collaborative environment, where your expertise will contribute to innovative automation solutions. If you are passionate about technology and enjoy tackling challenges in a fast-paced setting, this role is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• Proficient in PLC/HMI programming and fault finding.
• Experience with motion control and industrial communication protocols.
• Strong documentation and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop PLC and HMI/SCADA software for automation systems.
• Collaborate with teams for system integration and project management.
• Conduct testing and provide customer training post-installation.

Skills

PLC Programming

HMI Development

SCADA Systems

Fault Finding

Control System Architecture

Documentation Skills

Critical Thinking

Problem Solving

Education

HNC/HND or Degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering

Apprenticeship in Automation Systems

Tools

Siemens PLC

Rockwell PLC

Omron PLC

Mitsubishi PLC

Schneider PLC

SCADA Software

Job description

Overview

At Applied Automation (UK) Ltd, we design and deliver world-class automation solutions to customers across a wide range of industries including Medical Technology (device), Automotive, Aerospace, and General Industry Manufacturing. As we continue to grow and take on new challenges, we are looking for a talented Controls Software Engineer to join our Engineering Solutions Division and play a pivotal role in delivering high-quality bespoke automation systems.

Purpose of the Role

You will be responsible for the design, development, testing, and commissioning of industrial automation software using PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems. From early concept and design through to final customer handover, your expertise will help ensure that all automation projects meet performance, quality, and safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop PLC and HMI/SCADA software for bespoke automation equipment
• Create and maintain Software Design Specifications, software architecture, and test documentation, and other necessary technical documentation (including operator instruction manuals)
• Collaborate closely with mechanical and electrical teams to ensure system integration and alignment
• Take ownership of software elements of assigned projects, managing scope, customer requirements,timelines, and deliverables
• Support machine commissioning activities in collaboration with the commissioning team, including conducting internal testing, Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) in the UK and internationally
• Provide remote and on-site evaluations, diagnostics, and troubleshooting of automation systems, as well as delivering post-installation services and customer training when required
• Ensure all work meets relevant safety standards, including CE compliance
• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts, standardising processes and identifying technical innovations
• Communicate accurate project status to management, key internal and external stakeholders, and suppliers to enable proactive planning and issue resolution
• Maintain accurate project records and contribute to knowledge sharing within the team
• Participate in internal design reviews on new and potential projects.
• Engage with customers and suppliers as a technical representative of the company

Key Skills & Experience

Essential:

·Ability to read and interpret electrical and control system drawings, with the capability to fault-find where necessary

• Proficient in programming one or more PLC/HMI platforms (e.g. Siemens, Omron, Rockwell, Mitsubishi, Schneider)
• Experience with system commissioning and fault finding on live automated machinery
• Motion control and servo systems experience
• Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT, Profinet, etc.)
• Strong understanding of control system architecture, safety systems, and I/O structures
• Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving ability, with a proactive approach to overcoming technical challenges
• Comfortable working in fast-paced project environments and delivering to deadlines
• Excellent documentation and communication skills

Desirable:

• Vision system or industrial robotics integration
• Experience with SCADA systems
• Familiarity with risk assessments, CE documentation, and safety validation (SISTEMA, FMEA)
• Previous experience in the validation processes and GAMP or pharmaceutical/regulated environments.

·Proven experience working with electrical, pneumatic, or mechanical systems within the automation industry

Qualifications

• Apprenticeship background or demonstrable practical experience in automation systems
• Preferably a HNC/HND or Degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Mechatronics, or similar discipline
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel to customers sites (including overseas assignments).

Company Values & Expected Conduct

At Applied Automation, we expect all team members to embody and promote our core values across every project and interaction. As a Control Software Engineer, you will be a key ambassador of our standards, both on-site and with customers.

We ask that you:

• Demonstrate integrity, accountability, and professionalism in all work and communication
• Work collaboratively and respectfully with colleagues across all departments
• Strive for continuous improvement and innovation in line with our engineering excellence ethos
• Take ownership of safety, quality, and compliance in every task
• Represent the business positively with customers and partners, upholding our reputation for technical expertise and reliability

We believe that maintaining a supportive, honest, and forward-thinking environment helps us deliver exceptional solutions, and we expect all employees to contribute to that culture.