Principal Software Engineer (PLCs)

Mpac Group; Church Fenton; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automation company is seeking a Principal Software Engineer (PLCs) to lead the software delivery for complex bespoke automation projects. The role involves ensuring high standards in software implementation, guiding engineering teams through development and commissioning processes, delegating tasks, and ensuring compliance with Software Design Specifications. This position requires expert PLC and HMI development skills, technical leadership, and a comprehensive understanding of automation technologies. Full-time employment based in Church Fenton, England.

Qualifications

• Expert experience in control software development, including leading commissioning activities.
• Demonstrated experience leading software teams and projects from start to finish.
• Deep understanding of applying and validating SDS across project stages.

Responsibilities

• Lead software implementation for major automation projects.
• Create, review, and validate SDS documents for accuracy and functional completeness.
• Delegate development tasks and monitor project progress.

Skills

Control software development

PLC and HMI development

Commissioning activities

Team leadership

SDS interpretation

Advanced automation technologies

Education

Degree in Engineering, Software, or related discipline

Job description

Principal Software Engineer (PLCs)

Join to apply for the Principal Software Engineer (PLCs) role at Mpac Group.

Purpose of the Role: To lead the software delivery for complex bespoke automation projects. The Principal Software Engineer ensures that software is implemented to the highest standards, guides engineers through the development and commissioning process, delegates technical tasks, and ensures compliance with Software Design Specifications (SDS) and company procedures.

Key Accountabilities / Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee software implementation for major automation projects.
• Create, review and validate SDS documents for accuracy and functional completeness.
• Delegate development tasks, monitor progress, and ensure standards are maintained across the project team.
• Conduct and lead SCRs for all major modules, ensuring clarity, quality, and traceability.
• Deliver software successfully through the commissioning phase for large or complex systems, coordinating software integration into the commissioning process.
• Act as the senior technical authority on projects, resolving issues, mentoring engineers, and supporting performance improvements.
• Work collaboratively, effectively, and efficiently across disciplines to ensure project success.
• Promote adherence to established development, documentation, and commissioning practices.

Outputs / Deliverables

• Project‑compliant software systems delivered to specification, standards and project time frames.
• Validated SCRs and approved documentation across team members.
• Fully commissioned systems with fully documented outcomes as per Mpac process.
• Delegated task tracking and technical mentoring.
• Travel to customer sites on occasion for Software support and solutions.

Mpac Core Values

• Integrity
• Drive
• Collaboration
• Expertise
• Innovation

Essential Knowledge and Experience

• Expert experience in control software development, including leading commissioning activities.
• Demonstrated experience leading software teams and projects from start to finish.
• Deep understanding of applying and validating SDS across project stages.
• Technical expertise in system‑level diagnostics, safety compliance and integration.

Desirable

• Experience coordinating with multi‑discipline teams during large system deliveries.
• Technical expertise in vision, robotics, or motion tuning.

Essential Technical Skills and Qualifications

• Expert‑level PLC and HMI development across multiple platforms.
• Skilled in overseeing commissioning and managing technical escalations.
• Proficient in SCR practices and SDS interpretation.
• Experience with advanced automation technologies (robotics, vision, data).

Desirable

• Familiarity with functional safety, standards compliance, and software lifecycle management.
• Degree in Engineering, Software, or related discipline.

Relationship

• Working relationships with Mechanical & Electrical Engineering, Production and Build, Commissioning, Project Managers and Service (aftercare) team.

Seniority level: Not Applicable

Employment type: Full‑time

Job function: Engineering and Information Technology

Industries: Automation Machinery Manufacturing

Location: Leeds, England, United Kingdom