Automation Engineer

Our Company

We are a leading system integration specialist for electrical and mechanical automation systems in Food and Drink and Parcel Distribution sectors operating at client sites around the world. We’re looking for passionate and talented individuals to join our team, offering continual professional development in return for dedication to the job and a passion to contribute to the success of the company. Enthusiasm, flexibility and reliability with a flair for innovation are key attractions.

Role
Reporting to the Design & Technical Manager, you will develop, test and deploy control system software for industrial automation systems whilst delivering effective modifications to existing installations. This will involve working across the full project lifecycle from developing our in-house programming services through testing, FAT/SAT activities and site commissioning. Additionally, you will collaborate on innovations within our product development and technical portfolio utilising Microsoft Power Platforms, SharePoint and Power Automate, including the integration of associated cloud services through API technologies.

About You
Already a proven industrial automation specialist, you will have a strong background in automation engineering, preferably with demonstrable experience from a similar industrial sector. You will have experience of assisting in the technical and commercial aspects across multiple concurrent projects and have provided your expertise to successfully navigate through the complexities of testing and commissioning phases.

Location

•  Location: Hinckley, Leicestershire, with travel to client sites through the UK and occasional overseas travel.

Key Responsibilities

• Development of PLC and HMI software using Allen-Bradley (Studio 5000) and Siemens (TIA Portal) platforms.

• Commission automation systems both remotely and on client sites.

• Produce and maintain project documentation including Functional Design Specifications (FDS), Software Design Specifications (SDS), Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) records, Site Acceptance Test (SAT) records and O&M documentation.

• Testing and debug control systems.

• Analyse electrical drawings and schematics to ensure effective system integration

• Provide technical support and guidance to clients during installation, commissioning, and operational phases of projects

• Maintain knowledge of the latest industry trends and advancements in automation, PLC programming, HMI developments, and robotics

• Comply with Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS) and promote safe working practices.

• Comply with site-specific Permit to Work systems and all health and safety requirements.

• Complete assigned tasks to schedule and report any issues or variations

• Maintain positive relationships with client representatives and other third parties

• Present to work in line with Elmleigh brand values

You will need

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in industrial automation and control system software development

• Proficiency with P&IDs and instrumentation/control equipment

• Good understanding of IEC 61131-3 programming standards and software design methodologies, including ISA-88 batch control and state machine architectures.

• Experience programming using Ladder Logic, Structured Text and Function Block Diagram, with knowledge of industrial communication protocols including EtherNet/IP, Profinet, Profibus and Modbus.

• Good organisational skills

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

• A team player and customer focused

• Full UK Driving Licence and willingness to travel to customer sites throughout the UK.

• Knowledge of functional safety (ISO 13849, IEC 62061, IEC 61511) (desirable)

• Proficient IT skills and experience in using MS Power Automate, MS VBA and cloud technology APIs (Desirable)

Qualifications and Licences

• Certifications in PLC programming, HMI development, SCADA development

• HNC/HND, Degree or equivalent qualification in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, Software Engineering or a related discipline. Equivalent time-served industrial experience will also be considered.

• CSCS Card or equivalent and valid site safety passport (Desirable)