PLC Programmer (SCADA)

NRL Recruitment; Billingham; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in Billingham is seeking an experienced PLC / SCADA Programmer to join their dynamic engineering team. The role involves PLC and SCADA programming, with a solid understanding of instrumentation and electrical design highly desirable. Key tasks include creating Functional Design Specifications, conducting testing, and supporting client projects. The ideal candidate will have a degree in Instrumentation & Control Engineering and demonstrate strong communication and problem-solving skills. This on-site role requires travel across the UK.

Qualifications

• Degree in Instrumentation & Control Engineering or a related discipline.
• Strong computer literacy, including Microsoft Office.
• Ability to work in a digital documentation environment.

Responsibilities

• Creating Functional Design Specifications.
• PLC programming and software development.
• SCADA configuration and testing.
• Preparing test plans and technical documentation.
• Performing bench testing and system validation.
• Completing Factory and Site Acceptance Testing.
• Supporting project delivery in an engineering environment.

Skills

PLC programming

SCADA development

Functional Design Specifications

Problem-solving skills

Effective communication

Education

Degree in Instrumentation & Control Engineering or related discipline

Tools

Microsoft Office

Rockwell systems

Siemens systems

Mitsubishi systems

AVEVA InTouch

Job description

NRL is looking for an experienced PLC / SCADA Programmer to join a small, dynamic engineering team.

While the role focuses primarily on PLC and SCADA programming, a solid understanding of instrumentation and electrical design principles is highly desirable.

The successful candidate will work directly with clients throughout project lifecycles, ensuring effective communication and delivery.

The role involves working with a range of automation and control technologies, including PLCs, SCADA packages, and HMI solutions from various major manufacturers. Familiarity with systems such as Rockwell, Siemens, Mitsubishi, AVEVA InTouch, and similar platforms is beneficial.

This position requires the engineer to ensure that all control systems are specified, designed, tested, and implemented to a high standard.

Typical tasks include:

• Creating Functional Design Specifications
• PLC programming
• SCADA development
• Preparing test plans and documentation
• Conducting code reviews and bench testing
• Carrying out Factory Acceptance Testing
• Carrying out Site Acceptance Testing

Support for commissioned systems is required, and the successful candidate may take part in an on-call rota as part of ongoing client support services.

The role involves regular travel across the UK and is based at the company’s main office. A good level of fitness will be required for site work.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Producing Functional Design Specifications
• PLC programming and software development
• SCADA configuration and testing
• Preparing test plans and technical documentation
• Performing bench testing and system validation
• Completing Factory and Site Acceptance Testing
• Adhering to strict health and safety standards, including work on regulated industrial sites
• Supporting project delivery and other tasks typical of a project-based engineering environment

Qualifications and Skills

The ideal candidate will meet, or be willing to work toward, the following:

• A degree in Instrumentation & Control Engineering or a related engineering discipline
• Strong computer literacy, including use of Microsoft Office
• Ability to work effectively in a digital documentation environment using electronic devices

The candidate should also demonstrate strong communication abilities, effective problem‑solving skills, adaptability to changing requirements, and the capability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. This role may involve visiting new sites and interacting with personnel at all levels, so a professional and proactive attitude is essential.

We welcome applications from every walk of life and are committed to diversity within the industries we support, as a certified Inclusive Recruiter and Armed Forces friendly employer.

We are part of the NRL Group, which connects global companies with the right people to bring engineering projects to life. We support contracting companies with energy transition plans and work with our clients to create a cleaner, greener future.