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- Tasks: Lead the design and testing of complex control systems in a secure defence environment.
- Company: Join a key player in the UK defence sector, shaping advanced technology solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, private healthcare, and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a regulated industry while mentoring junior engineers and leading innovative projects.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in PLC engineering, deep Siemens knowledge, and relevant degree required.
- Other info: UK citizenship and security clearance are essential for this role.
The predicted salary is between 52000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced engineer ready to lead the development of complex control systems within a secure and highly regulated defence environment? Our client, a key player in the UK defence sector, is seeking a Principal Control Systems Engineer with extensive Siemens PLC and SCADA expertise to join their specialist team.
Key Responsibilities:
- Capture, interpret, and develop complex customer requirements.
- Lead the design and testing of Siemens-based PLC control systems (S7-300/400).
- Develop software using block diagrams, flow charts, or pseudo-code.
- Produce and review high-quality technical documentation.
- Manage SCADA/PLC interfacing and industrial communications (e.g., Profibus, Profinet, ModBus, TCP/IP).
- Support system integration and commissioning activities.
- Provide technical leadership to junior engineers and project teams.
- Contribute to project planning, risk management, and customer liaison.
- Assist with proposal development and contract changes.
Ideal Candidate Profile:
- Minimum 5 years of experience in a PLC engineering environment, ideally in a lead or senior capacity.
- Deep knowledge of Siemens Step 7 Classic and associated tools.
- Experience with fault-tolerant and safety-integrated control systems.
- Strong understanding of industrial protocols and system integration.
- Proven ability to work across the full software lifecycle.
- HND, HNC, or Degree in Electrical/Electronic, Control & Instrumentation, or Systems Engineering.
- Background in Defence, Maritime, Aerospace, or other regulated sectors (e.g., Oil & Gas, Pharma, Petrochem).
Benefits:
- Competitive salary: £62,000 – £75,000, depending on experience.
- Flexible and hybrid working options, including compressed working weeks (e.g., every other Friday off).
- Private healthcare.
- Career development, professional training, and mentoring opportunities.
- Performance-based bonus scheme.
- Relocation support may be available for eligible candidates.
Please note: Due to the nature of this role, UK citizenship is required. Applicants must be eligible to obtain and maintain UK Security Check (SC) clearance.
Principal Control Systems Engineer employer: TEC Partners - Technical Recruitment Specialists
Contact Detail:
TEC Partners - Technical Recruitment Specialists Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Control Systems Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to highlight your experience with Siemens PLC and SCADA systems during any networking opportunities. Engage with professionals in the defence sector on platforms like LinkedIn, and don't hesitate to ask for informational interviews to learn more about the industry.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in control systems engineering, especially those related to fault-tolerant and safety-integrated systems. This knowledge will not only boost your confidence but also impress potential employers during discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Consider joining relevant professional organisations or attending industry conferences. These events are great for networking and can provide insights into what companies like ours are looking for in candidates, giving you an edge in your application.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your leadership experience and how you've mentored junior engineers in past roles. Being able to demonstrate your ability to lead and support teams will be crucial in standing out as a candidate for this position.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Control Systems Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with Siemens PLC and SCADA systems. Include specific projects where you've led the design and testing of control systems, as well as any relevant qualifications in Electrical/Electronic or Systems Engineering.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, emphasise your leadership experience and ability to manage complex customer requirements. Mention your familiarity with industrial protocols and your background in regulated sectors like Defence or Aerospace.
Highlight Technical Skills: Clearly outline your technical skills related to PLC engineering, including your proficiency with Siemens Step 7 Classic and fault-tolerant systems. Use examples to demonstrate your understanding of system integration and communications.
Showcase Leadership Experience: If you have experience providing technical leadership to junior engineers or project teams, make sure to include this in your application. Highlight any instances where you've contributed to project planning or risk management.
How to prepare for a job interview at TEC Partners - Technical Recruitment Specialists
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your experience with Siemens PLC and SCADA systems in detail. Highlight specific projects where you've led the design and testing of control systems, and be ready to explain your approach to developing software using block diagrams or flow charts.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Principal Control Systems Engineer, you'll need to provide technical leadership. Share examples of how you've mentored junior engineers or led project teams in the past. This will show your ability to guide others and manage complex projects effectively.
✨Understand the Defence Sector
Familiarise yourself with the unique challenges and regulations of the defence environment. Be ready to discuss how your background in regulated sectors like Defence, Maritime, or Aerospace has prepared you for this role, especially regarding compliance and security.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle real-world scenarios. Think about past experiences where you had to manage risks or integrate systems under pressure, and be ready to articulate your thought process and outcomes.
