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- Tasks: Design and integrate automation systems, ensuring high-quality delivery from concept to support.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking company driving digital innovation in automation technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, paid overtime, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping the future of automation and mentoring the next generation.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in automation engineering with strong programming skills in PLCs and robotics.
- Other info: Willingness to travel and collaborate across various locations is essential.
Job Title: Automation Engineer
Location: Coventry
Company: Our client, a leading provider of advanced control and automation solutions, is seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to join their growing controls team in Coventry.
Job Overview:
Reporting to the Controls Engineering Manager, the Automation Engineer will take responsibility for delivering high-quality programmable systems (PLCs/Robots) across the full project lifecycle – from concept and design through to virtual commissioning, installation, and aftersales support. The role involves executing a variety of automation projects independently or as part of a team, ensuring the delivery of professional, efficient, and right-first-time automation systems.
Duties & Responsibilities:
- Design, install, and integrate automation systems at both company and customer sites in line with internal tools, procedures, and standards.
- Produce Functional Design Specifications (FDS) based on customer requirements and internal specifications.
- Assist or lead hardware design teams (ePLAN and Pneumatics) to select appropriate equipment for each application.
- Develop, test, and validate programmable systems including PLCs, HMIs, Robots, Safety Systems, Drive Systems, Vision Systems, and SCADA.
- Conduct virtual commissioning and demonstrate system performance prior to on-site commissioning.
- Configure and commission networking and distributed I/O systems (e.g. ProfiNet, Ethernet/IP).
- Lead or support FAT & SAT activities and ensure CE compliance through appropriate documentation.
- Train end users during handover and provide technical support for aftersales and warranty activities.
- Actively promote Industry 4.0 technologies and practices in line with the company\’s digital strategy.
- Support the training and development of junior engineers and colleagues across the controls function.
Experience:
- Minimum of 3 years\’ experience as a multi-skilled Automation Engineer with strong design and integration capabilities.
- Proficient in a range of control systems and technologies, including Siemens, Rockwell, Beckhoff, ABB, and Cognex.
- Background in manufacturing and assembly automation, ideally from an electrical or controls engineering environment.
- Experience producing technical documentation, leading commissioning activities, and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams.
Skills:
- PLC/HMI programming (Siemens TIA Portal, WinCC Unified, Rockwell, Beckhoff).
- Programmable safety systems (Siemens TIA Safety, Rockwell, Pilz).
- Robot programming (ABB, Fanuc, Kawasaki).
- Drive and Vision Systems integration (Siemens, SEW, Bosch, Cognex, Keyence).
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and automation software tools.
- Preferred: ePLAN P8 Electrical Design, Pneumatics/Fluids design (Festo FluidDraw or ePLAN Fluid), SCADA programming, and experience with standards such as SICAR, DCP, TransLine, and PackML.
Qualifications:
- Time-served or formally trained Automation Engineer with a minimum Level 3 Apprenticeship or HNC in Engineering (Degree preferred).
- Electrical qualification or background strongly preferred.
- Recognised vendor training/accreditations (e.g. Siemens, Rockwell, ABB, Beckhoff, Fanuc) are advantageous.
Automation Engineer employer: Tech Connect Group
Contact Detail:
Tech Connect Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Automation Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the automation engineering field. Attend industry events, webinars, or local meetups to connect with others who work with PLCs, HMIs, and robotics. This can lead to valuable insights and potential job referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your hands-on experience by participating in relevant projects or competitions. Whether it's a personal project or a collaborative effort, having tangible examples of your work can set you apart during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in automation. Familiarise yourself with Industry 4.0 innovations and how they apply to automation systems. This knowledge can demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning and innovation.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on your programming skills, especially in Siemens TIA Portal and Rockwell systems. Practising common interview questions related to automation engineering can help you feel more confident and ready to impress.
We think you need these skills to ace Automation Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in automation engineering, particularly with PLCs, HMIs, and robotics. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in programming and system integration.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for automation and your understanding of Industry 4.0 technologies. Mention how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Highlight Technical Skills: Clearly list your technical proficiencies, especially in PLC/HMI programming and safety systems. Include any recognised vendor training or certifications that are relevant to the role.
Showcase Soft Skills: In addition to technical expertise, emphasise your communication, project management, and time-management skills. Provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with cross-functional teams in past projects.
How to prepare for a job interview at Tech Connect Group
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with PLC, HMI, and Robot programming in detail. Highlight specific projects where you successfully integrated these systems, as this will demonstrate your hands-on expertise and problem-solving abilities.
✨Understand the Company’s Automation Goals
Research the company’s current automation projects and their approach to Industry 4.0 technologies. This knowledge will allow you to tailor your responses and show how your skills align with their objectives.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle real-world challenges in automation engineering. Think of examples from your past experiences where you had to troubleshoot issues or lead a project, and be ready to explain your thought process.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves working with cross-functional teams, be ready to discuss how you’ve effectively collaborated with others in previous roles. Share examples of how you communicated technical information to non-technical team members.
