Senior Controls & Electrical Design Engineer

Thomas Lee Recruitment; England; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking a Senior Controls & Electrical Design Engineer in the UK. You will work on automation and vision technology, managing full control system projects from design to commissioning. Candidates should have extensive PLC programming experience, a good understanding of industrial automation, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. This role offers a chance to innovate in the field of industrial automation.

Qualifications

• 3+ years' experience in PLC/HMI programming (Allen Bradley and/or Siemens).
• Proven experience delivering full control system projects from design to commissioning.
• Solid understanding of industrial automation, safety systems, and electrical control gear.

Responsibilities

• Full life cycle PLC and controls programming for industrial automation projects.
• Design control systems, specify safety and electrical components.
• Develop technical specifications, process flow diagrams, and programming architecture.

Skills

PLC/HMI programming

Industrial automation knowledge

Problem-solving skills

Verbal and written communication

Teamwork

Education

Degree in Electrical Engineering or related field

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

Job description

Looking to work on cutting-edge automation and vision technology?

Were hiring a Senior Controls & Electrical Design Engineer to join a leading player in machine vision and industrial automation. Established in 2000, this company is at the forefront of inspection machines, AI vision systems, and fully automated industrial solutions used worldwide by blue-chip manufacturers.

You'll be part of a highly skilled team delivering complete control system designs and integrations from small retrofits to full-scale automation projects.

What youll do:

• Full life cycle PLC and controls programming for industrial automation projects.
• Design control systems, specify safety and electrical components.
• Develop technical specifications, process flow diagrams, and programming architecture.
• Integrate and commission new systems both in the UK and internationally.
• Produce electrical schematics using AutoCAD Electrical (or similar), including layouts, wiring plans, and terminal diagrams to EU standards.
• Collaborate with design and applications engineers to ensure timely project delivery.
• Manage and coordinate suppliers and subcontractors.
• Assist with panel wiring, machine assembly, and electrical testing.
• Provide ongoing support, maintenance, and troubleshooting for installed systems.

What youll need:

• 3+ years' experience in PLC/HMI programming (Allen Bradley and/or Siemens).
• Proven experience delivering full control system projects from design to commissioning.
• Solid understanding of industrial automation, safety systems, and electrical control gear.
• Experience with industrial communication protocols (Profinet, Profibus, EtherNet/IP, TCP/IP, serial, OPC, IO-link, etc.).
• 3+ years' experience using AutoCAD Electrical or similar.
• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to meet deadlines.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Team player with the ability to work independently.

Itd be great if you also had:

• Degree in Electrical Engineering or related field (2.1 or above).
• Robotics or machine vision experience.
• Full UK driving licence.

About Us:
At Thomas Lee Recruitment, we specialise in connecting engineers and technical salespeople with leading companies in the engineering sector. We pride ourselves on offering a personalised, professional, and transparent recruitment service. Our focus is on understanding both client and candidate needs to ensure the best possible match.

How to Apply:
All applications will be responded to. Please ensure you have the right to work in the UK before applying. By applying for this role, you accept our Terms & Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers, which can be found on our website.