Senior Controls Engineer

About the role

Senior Controls Engineer Are you someone who enjoys taking ownership of complex automation projects from concept through commissioning? This opportunity is with a growing custom machinery and automation manufacturer that designs highly engineered equipment used across advanced manufacturing sectors including medical devices, electronics, aerospace, and defence. Every project is unique, offering the chance to work on sophisticated automation systems and cutting-edge technology rather than repetitive production support. You'll play a key role in developing, integrating, testing, and commissioning custom-built equipment while collaborating with multidisciplinary engineering teams throughout the machine lifecycle.

Responsibilities

• Lead controls development for custom automation projects, including PLC programming, HMI development, commissioning, and customer acceptance testing.
• Integrate a variety of technologies including robotics, machine vision, motion control systems, servo drives, sensors, and industrial communication networks.
• Debug and validate machine functionality, ensuring hardware and software operate seamlessly together.
• Collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing teams during design, build, and startup phases.
• Support factory acceptance testing (FAT) and on-site commissioning activities at customer facilities.
• Troubleshoot and resolve controls-related issues both remotely and in the field.
• Produce and maintain technical documentation, wiring information, operating procedures, and user manuals.
• Provide technical guidance to technicians and junior engineers during machine builds and system startup activities.
• Participate in process improvements and contribute to engineering standards and quality initiatives.

Requirements

• Several years of hands-on experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, or machine integration.
• Strong PLC programming experience, particularly with ladder logic.
• Experience with structured text or function block programming is advantageous.
• Experience developing operator interfaces and industrial visualisation systems.
• Understanding of industrial networking protocols such as EtherNet/IP, Profinet, Modbus, IO-Link, or similar.
• Experience integrating robotics, machine vision systems, servo motion, safety systems, and industrial electrical controls.
• Ability to interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation.
• Strong troubleshooting skills and confidence working directly with customers during startup and commissioning activities.

Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation, Engineering Technology, or a related discipline.
• Equivalent industry experience will also be considered.

Skills

• PLC programming (ladder logic, structured text, function block)
• HMI development and industrial visualisation
• Industrial networking protocols (EtherNet/IP, Profinet, Modbus, IO‑Link)
• Robotics, machine vision, servo motion, and safety system integration
• Electrical schematic and wiring diagram interpretation
• Troubleshooting and problem‑solving on‑site and remotely
• Technical documentation and user manual creation
• Customer‑facing communication during commissioning and support

Benefits

• Retirement savings plan
• Healthcare coverage
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development support