Automation & Controls Engineer

CREGG; Sligo; On-site; EUR 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

SF Engineering seeks an experienced Automation Engineer to lead end-to-end automation projects from concept to commissioning, including design, build and testing of control panels.

The role focuses on PLC, HMI, SCADA, CAD and ECAD tools, with responsibilities spanning design reviews, FAT/SAT, and client coordination across multiple projects.

Qualifications

• 5–7 years of experience in automation engineering.
• Expertise in PLC programming, HMI, SCADA, CAD, schematic tools (Eplan).
• Project management certification (e.g., PMP) is a plus.
• Qualified electrician with testing and verification credentials is a plus.
• Valid passport for international installs.
• Valid driving licence.

Responsibilities

• Lead automation and control projects from initial concept through design, manufacture, installation, testing, and commissioning.
• Design motor control systems, automated equipment, robotic cells, tooling, fixtures, and custom machines.
• Produce Functional Design Specifications and project deliverables throughout the lifecycle.
• Prepare quotations, cost estimates, and technical scopes for automation projects.
• Lead system integration, FAT, and support SAT and commissioning activities.
• Act as technical contact for clients, suppliers, subcontractors, and stakeholders.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI

SCADA

CAD

Schematic design

Tools

EPLAN

AutoCAD Electrical

Job description

Overview

This is an exciting opportunity for an Automation Engineer to join a leading engineering company focused on developing excellence in-house for design, build and testing of control panels. This is a project-focused Automation Engineer role with hands‑on programming on a variation of projects. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in leading end-to-end automation projects from initial concept through to development and implementation within the engineering environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead automation and control projects from initial concept and feasibility through design, manufacture, installation, testing, and commissioning.
• Design and engineer motor control systems, automated equipment, robotic cells, tooling, fixtures, and custom machines.
• Produce Functional Design Specifications (FDS), technical documentation, and project deliverables throughout the project lifecycle.
• Prepare accurate quotations, cost estimates, and technical scopes for medium to large-scale automation projects.
• Specify and design hardware and control solutions compliant with applicable standards (UKCA, CE, UL, safety codes, and project guidelines).
• Design electrical schematics, control panel enclosure layouts, and backplate layouts using ECAD tools.
• Develop and maintain Bills of Materials (BOMs), assembly instructions, and technical documentation.
• Design, program, configure, test, and commission PLC, HMI, and automation control systems, including integration of external devices and systems.
• Design, program, and integrate robotic systems, including external axes where required.
• Lead system integration, Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), and support Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) and commissioning activities.
• Act as a technical point of contact for clients, suppliers, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders throughout project delivery.
• Support fabrication, assembly, installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting phases of automation projects.
• Provide ongoing production and operational support to improve reliability, efficiency, and performance of manufacturing systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (customers, tooling, project management, manufacturing, and engineering) to define requirements and deliver complete automation solutions.
• Participate in design reviews, prototyping, testing, and process simulations to validate solutions prior to deployment.
• Improve existing systems to achieve optimal performance, reliability, and cost‑effectiveness.
• Research, evaluate, and apply new automation technologies, devices, and components to enhance system capability and efficiency.
• Carry out general project engineering and project management duties, including working effectively across multiple concurrent projects in a fast‑paced environment.

Requirements

• 5–7 years’ experience in automation engineering.
• Expertise in PLC programming, HMI, SCADA, CAD, schematic tools (Eplan).
• Strong analytical, communication, and collaboration skills.
• Project management certification (e.g., PMP) is a plus.
• Qualified electrician with testing and verification credentials is a plus.
• Valid passport for international installs.
• Valid driving licence.

Location

SF Engineering has two locations. The ideal candidate must be able to commute regularly to one of the locations shown.