Principal Controls Engineer (Hybrid / Tadcaster, UK)

Switchback Group; Tadcaster; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company as a Principal Software Engineer, where you will lead the charge in developing innovative control software for cutting-edge automation machines. This role involves managing project teams, creating high-quality software solutions, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. You will work with leading PLC platforms and be a key player in continuous improvement initiatives. If you are passionate about engineering and automation, this is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in the industry.

Qualifications

• Expertise in PLC programming across Siemens, Rockwell, and Beckhoff platforms.
• Experience in managing software project teams and delivering high-quality solutions.

Responsibilities

• Create and modify PLC software and HMI systems for automation machines.
• Manage project documentation and ensure design quality throughout projects.

Skills

PLC Programming

Project Management

Software Design

Technical Support

Continuous Improvement

Education

HNC, HND, or BSC in Engineering

Apprentice trained in Electrical or Mechatronic Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Rockwell Automation products

Siemens programming platforms

Vision Systems

Job description

Purpose of the Role

As a Principal Software Engineer, you’ll be at the forefront of innovation, shaping the future of Mpac’s cutting-edge automation machines.

Your expertise will be crucial in:

• Creating control software across leading PLC platforms like Siemens, Rockwell, and Beckhoff for first of a kind packaging and assembly machines.
• Managing project teams consisting of Senior Software and Software Engineers.
• Developing and maintaining Mpac standard software templates and libraries.
• Developing and maintaining Mpac software development procedures.
• Technical expertise and point of contact for project related topics.
• Perform and oversee software design code reviews.

Outputs/Deliverables

• Support delivery of high-quality software design based on comprehensive understanding of customer and regulatory requirements.
• Experience in Full Lifecycle Projects for pharmaceutical and process manufacturing applications.
• Exhibit commercial acumen to ensure cost-effective solutions and manage scope changes according to company procedures. Communicate project status effectively to relevant stakeholders.
• Contribute proactively to continuous improvement initiatives and provide data for project performance evaluation.
• Consistently strive to exceed customer expectations.

Key Accountabilities / Responsibilities

• Create/modify PLC software, vision applications, robot applications, motion applications, and HMI/visualisation systems.
• Manage software project teams progress against defined key milestones.
• Create project documentation including I/O lists, FDS, SDI, SDS, HDS and FAT/SAT test documents.
• Occasionally provide support with commissioning on customer sites in the UK and Overseas.
• Assist with technical support across departments, including simulations, estimating, and hardware/software selection.
• Interpret customer and regulatory requirements to ensure aligned software designs, minimising technical risk.
• Provide aftersales support for existing machinery and installations.
• Ensure that design quality is maintained throughout the project by verifying that the output meets the company’s standard operating procedures.
• Communicate accurate project status internally with the team, and externally to customers and suppliers when required.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and report on project performance relative to KPIs.
• Provide support during design review meetings to achieve timely approvals.
• Collaborate with and be the point of contact for Project Engineers to ensure successful resource planning for project milestones.

Core Values & Competencies

Mpac Core Values

• Integrity
• Drive
• Expertise

Mpac Lambert Core Competencies

• SHE
• Initiative
• Self-Development
• Positive Self Image
• Flexibility
• Thoroughness

Knowledge and Experience

• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Suite
• Knowledge and Experience in electrical or mechatronic Engineering
• Proficient in the use of Rockwell and Siemens programming platforms
• Integration of robotics into automation solutions

Technical Skills and Qualifications

• Apprentice trained in Electrical or Mechatronic Engineering.
• HNC, HND, or BSC in a relevant engineering discipline.
• Proficient in the use of Rockwell and Siemens programming platforms.
• Integration of robotics into automation solutions.
• Integration of vision systems into industrial automation.
• Integration of servo drives into industrial automation.
• Previous skills utilising the following would be an advantage: Rockwell Automation products – RSLogix / Studio 5000 / FactoryTalk Siemens TIA Portal, Step 7, B&R. GE Fanuc iFix and Aveva InTouch and System Platform – but all SCADA packages accepted.

Relationship and Reporting Line

• Reports to: Software Team Lead
• Working relationships with: Project Engineers, Design Team, Software Team, Commissioning Team, Customers & Suppliers