System Engineer

Actalent; Northampton; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Actalent is seeking a talented Systems Engineer to design, develop, and deploy industrial automation solutions, including PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI development, and database integration. You will work on projects from concept through commissioning, collaborating with project teams and customers to deliver reliable automation solutions.

This role is ideal for a recent graduate or early-career engineer who wants hands-on exposure to complex control systems, with approximately 20-30%

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• Experience in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• PLC programming experience.
• SCADA programming experience.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, clients, and vendors.
• Experience with Ignition software.
• Knowledge of AutoCAD.
• Understanding of networking and database management.
• Experience with web-based programming languages.
• Knowledge of P&IDs and industrial process systems.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and practical hands-on experience.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop industrial automation system architectures and control solutions.
• Create, modify, troubleshoot, and commission PLC programs, primarily using Rockwell and/or Siemens platforms.
• Develop and support HMI and SCADA applications.
• Create and maintain data management and database solutions, including writing queries and retrieving operational data.
• Support the development of controls, instrumentation, motors, and conveying systems for industrial applications.
• Participate in project meetings, monitor schedules and budgets, and coordinate activities with contractors and project stakeholders.
• Provide support during system start‑up, commissioning, maintenance, and troubleshooting activities.
• Collaborate with estimating and project management teams to support project planning and resource scheduling.
• Travel to customer sites domestically and internationally to support project implementation and commissioning.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Hands-on technical aptitude

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Ignition software

AutoCAD

Rockwell PLC

Siemens PLC

HMI/SCADA

Job description

Travel: Approximately 20-30% domestic and international travel

Experience: Graduate to 3 years' experience

About the Role

We are looking for a talented and driven Systems Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and deploying industrial automation solutions, including PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI development, and database integration. You'll work on a variety of engineering projects from concept through commissioning, collaborating with project teams and customers to deliver innovative automation solutions.

This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career engineer who wants hands‑on exposure to complex industrial control systems and the opportunity to travel and support projects globally.

What You'll Be Doing

• Design and develop industrial automation system architectures and control solutions.
• Create, modify, troubleshoot, and commission PLC programs, primarily using Rockwell and/or Siemens platforms.
• Develop and support HMI and SCADA applications.
• Create and maintain data management and database solutions, including writing queries and retrieving operational data.
• Support the development of controls, instrumentation, motors, and conveying systems for industrial applications.
• Participate in project meetings, monitor schedules and budgets, and coordinate activities with contractors and project stakeholders.
• Provide support during system start‑up, commissioning, maintenance, and troubleshooting activities.
• Collaborate with estimating and project management teams to support project planning and resource scheduling.
• Travel to customer sites domestically and internationally to support project implementation and commissioning.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Experience in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• PLC programming experience.
• SCADA programming experience.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, clients, and vendors.
• Experience with Ignition software.
• Knowledge of AutoCAD.
• Understanding of networking and database management.
• Experience with web‑based programming languages.
• Knowledge of P&IDs and industrial process systems.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and practical hands‑on experience.

Why Join Us?

• Work on exciting industrial automation and controls projects from concept to commissioning.
• Gain exposure to cutting‑edge PLC, SCADA, HMI, and database technologies.
• Collaborate with experienced engineering professionals in a supportive environment.
• Enjoy opportunities for international travel and client‑facing project work.
• Build a rewarding career with clear development opportunities and hands‑on engineering experience.

Equal Opportunity Employer: We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and welcome applications from all qualified candidates.