Automation and Controls Engineer

Harmonics Recruitment; Limerick; On-site; EUR 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Harmonics Recruitment seeks an Automation and Controls Engineer to design, develop and maintain PLC and HMI software for our client’s equipment. The role involves commissioning at sites across Ireland and the UK, and supporting FAT, SAT and qualification activities.

You will diagnose automation and electrical issues, collaborate with mechanical and electrical engineers, review schematics, and drive continuous improvement while ensuring safety and quality standards are met.

Qualifications

• Degree in Automation, Electrical, Mechatronics or related field.
• 3–5 years in automation, controls, or industrial systems.
• Experience programming PLCs (Siemens, Rockwell/AB, Beckhoff, Omron, Mitsubishi).
• Experience developing HMI applications and integrating control systems.
• Experience commissioning automated machinery and diagnosing faults.
• Knowledge of electrical schematics and control panels.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop and maintain PLC and HMI software for equipment.
• Commission automated systems at sites in Ireland and the UK.
• Support FAT, SAT and equipment qualification activities.
• Diagnose and resolve automation and electrical issues during commissioning.
• Collaborate with Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineers to improve machine performance.
• Review electrical schematics and control documentation.
• Support continuous improvement for reliability and safety.

Skills

PLC Programming

HMI Development

Diagnostics

Problem Solving

Communication Skills

Travel Readiness

Driving Licence

Education

Degree in Automation Engineering

Tools

Siemens PLCs

Allen-Bradley/Rockwell

Beckhoff

Omron

Mitsubishi

HMI software

Job description

About the job Automation and Controls Engineer

Our Clean technology Client based in the Midwest has a requirement for an Automation Controls Engineer. The role will involve supporting the Engineering and Operations teams through the design, development, commissioning and continuous improvement of automation and control systems for the companies products and customer installations.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop and maintain PLC and HMI software for new and existing equipment.
• Commission automated systems at the site and customer sites across Ireland and the UK.
• Support Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) and equipment qualification activities where required.
• Diagnose and resolve automation, electrical and control system issues during commissioning and customer support activities.
• Collaborate with Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineers to develop reliable, high-performance machine solutions.
• Review electrical schematics and control system documentation to support machine build and commissioning activities.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives through optimisation of machine performance, reliability and system functionality.
• Carry out software modifications, system upgrades and validation activities as required.
• Provide technical support to customers and internal teams during installation, commissioning and post-installation phases.
• Maintain accurate technical documentation, software revisions, commissioning reports and service records.
• Support remote diagnostics and troubleshooting of installed systems where appropriate.
• Ensure all work is completed in compliance with Company Safety, Health, Environmental and Quality standards.

The PersonSkills & Experience Required

• Degree (Level 7 or Level 8) in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics or a related Engineering discipline.
• 3–5 years' experience in an Automation, Controls or Industrial Systems Engineering role.
• Experience programming industrial PLCs (e.g. Siemens, Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Beckhoff, Omron or Mitsubishi).
• Experience developing HMI applications and integrating industrial control systems.
• Experience commissioning automated machinery or industrial process equipment.
• Strong fault-finding and diagnostic skills across automation and electrical control systems.
• Good understanding of electrical schematics, control panels and industrial instrumentation.
• Experience working with variable speed drives, servo systems, sensors and instrumentation.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a continuous improvement mindset.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively within project timelines.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a customer-focused approach.
• Willingness to travel occasionally within Ireland and the UK for commissioning and customer support activities.
• Full clean driving licence.
• Experience working within regulated manufacturing or medical device environments.
• Familiarity with equipment qualification and validation documentation (FAT, SAT, IQ/OQ).
• Knowledge of machine safety systems and relevant industry standards.
• Experience with Industrial IoT or remote monitoring technologies.