At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop control system software for PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA platforms.
- Company: Join a leading automation team in Birmingham with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, matched pension, private healthcare, and cycle to work scheme.
- Other info: Dynamic role with travel across the UK and excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in automation while working on exciting multi-discipline projects.
- Qualifications: HNC/HND or degree in relevant field and 3 years of PLC/SCADA experience.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Package: Competitive salary BOE + Up to 7% matched pension + Health Shield (Cashback plan) + Private Healthcare + Cycle to Work Scheme + Death in Service + Share Scheme + Annual Discretionary Bonus
Location: Birmingham (site travel across the Midlands and UK will be required)
The Role – Control Systems Software Engineer
We are seeking an experienced and adaptable Control Systems Software Engineer to join our automation team in Birmingham. The successful candidate will design, develop, test and commission control system software for PLCs, HMIs and SCADA platforms, working on multi‑discipline projects from concept through to handover and post‑commission support. You will collaborate closely with project engineers, electrical designers, and clients to deliver reliable, maintainable and safe automation solutions.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and configure PLC control software using relevant platforms (Siemens, Rockwell/Allen‑Bradley, Schneider, etc.) in accordance with project specifications and industry best practice.
- Design and implement HMI/SCADA applications, operator screens and supervisory logic to meet client operational requirements.
- Produce and maintain technical documentation including functional design specifications (FDS), software design documents, I/O lists, test procedures and commissioning checklists.
- Create and execute FAT/SAT test plans, perform system integration testing, and support factory and site commissioning activities.
- Troubleshoot and resolve control system faults during installation, commissioning and early life support; provide clear root‑cause analysis and corrective actions.
- Work with project teams to ensure software meets safety, quality and regulatory requirements, including adherence to relevant coding and testing standards.
- Support cyber security and industrial networking requirements for control systems, including VLAN, firewalls and secure remote access where required.
- Assist with client training and handover documentation to ensure effective transition to operations and maintenance teams.
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, standard libraries and re‑usable software assets to increase delivery efficiency and quality.
- Promote and comply with all Health & Safety, Environmental and Quality requirements on site and in the workshop.
Working Environment
This role involves office‑based engineering, workshop work and frequent site attendance, including live industrial environments. PPE will be provided and adherence to site safety procedures is essential. Travel to client sites across the Midlands and wider UK will be required.
Qualifications & Skills
Essential
- HNC/HND or degree in Control Systems, Automation, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or similar discipline, or equivalent practical experience.
- Minimum of 3 years’ experience developing PLC and SCADA control software from initial design through to implementation in industrial environments.
- Proven experience with at least one major PLC platform (Siemens TIA Portal/Step 7, Rockwell Studio 5000, Schneider Unity etc.) and SCADA/HMI tools (Wonderware, Ignition, WinCC, FactoryTalk or similar).
- Strong understanding of industrial networking, fieldbus protocols (Profinet, EtherNet/IP, Modbus) and PLC‑to‑SCADA integration.
- Competent with testing methodologies, FAT/SAT procedures and commissioning activities.
- Good written and verbal communication skills and experience producing technical documentation.
- Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel to client sites.
Desirable
- Experience with MES integration, recipe management and batch control systems.
- Knowledge of industrial cyber security standards and secure architecture for control systems.
- Familiarity with safety PLCs and functional safety standards (e.g. IEC 61508 / 61511) and experience implementing safety logic.
- Experience with SCADA historian systems and basic data analytics.
- Relevant vendor certifications (Siemens, Rockwell, Inductive Automation, Schneider).
Personal Attributes
- Practical, hands‑on approach with strong problem solving and fault‑finding skills.
- Attention to detail and a commitment to producing robust, well‑documented solutions.
- Ability to work independently and as part of multidisciplinary project teams.
- Customer‑focused with professional communication skills and the ability to build strong client relationships.
- Proactive attitude towards continuous learning and keeping up to date with control technology trends.
Eligibility to Work in the UK
Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. We are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role.
Actemium Automation Birmingham - Control Systems Software Engineer employer: Actemium UK
Actemium Automation Birmingham is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With a competitive salary package, comprehensive health benefits, and a strong commitment to safety and quality, our collaborative work culture fosters innovation and continuous improvement. Located in Birmingham, we offer unique opportunities for site travel across the Midlands and UK, allowing you to engage with diverse projects while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Actemium Automation Birmingham - Control Systems Software Engineer
✨Get Involved in Local Automation Meetups
We can’t stress this enough – getting your face out there in the automation and control systems community can really set you apart. Look for local meetups or workshops where you can chat with industry professionals, learn about what’s trending, and even discover hidden job gems. Who knows, you might meet someone from a company like Actemium UK!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Make sure you have a portfolio of your work ready to roll. Whether it’s academic projects, internships or personal experiments, showcase how you’ve tackled automation challenges. When you apply for the Actemium Automation Birmingham - Control Systems Software Engineer position at Actemium UK, linking your portfolio gives your application that extra oomph and demonstrates your practical knowledge.
✨Leverage Your Uni Career Services
If you’re fresh out of uni, don’t forget about your career services! Many universities have established connections with companies in the automation field. They may know when Actemium UK is looking for fresh talent or even have internships that lead to full-time positions. So, hit them up!
✨Keep an Eye on Industry Certifications
While hunting for roles, consider getting certified in relevant automation technologies. It shows dedication and gives you a leg up in the job market. Plus, many organisations offer job boards or networking events to certified professionals. This might just lead you to that coveted Actemium Automation Birmingham - Control Systems Software Engineer role at Actemium UK!
We think you need these skills to ace Actemium Automation Birmingham - Control Systems Software Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for an automation-control-systems role, it’s crucial to highlight your technical skills. Whether it's your proficiency in programming languages like Python or understanding control systems, make sure your CV showcases these prominently. Don't forget to mention any specific software or tools you're experienced with – that’s music to the ears of hiring managers!
Tailor Your Projects to Automation:If you've worked on any relevant projects, especially those involving automation or control systems, make them stand out in your CV. Use a dedicated section to highlight these projects, explaining your role and the impact of your contributions. This could be the difference between getting noticed and getting overlooked!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tell us why you’re passionate about automation-control-systems! Discuss specific experiences that sparked your interest in this field. Maybe it's a university project or a previous job that truly got you hooked. We love seeing that spark! Make sure to reference how you can contribute to Actemium UK and its goals.
Quantify Your Achievements:In the world of automation, results matter. When listing your experiences, quantify your achievements wherever possible. Did you improve system efficiency by a percentage? Did you reduce downtime? Putting numbers to your successes not only demonstrates your impact but also lets us see the tangible outcomes of your efforts. It makes your application pop!
How to prepare for a job interview at Actemium UK
✨Master Your Technical Knowledge
In the automation control systems field, you need to brush up on your technical know-how. Be prepared to talk about specific control systems you’ve worked with, such as PLCs or SCADA systems, and expect technical questions or even hands-on problem-solving scenarios during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Whether it's freelance projects or your academic work, come ready to showcase your portfolio of automation projects. Bring along any diagrams, code samples, or automation solutions you’ve implemented—these can really set you apart and demonstrate your applied skills to Actemium UK.
✨Understand Industry Trends
Stay updated on the latest trends in automation technologies and methodologies, like Industry 4.0 or IIoT. We'll want to discuss how these concepts may affect the role and future projects at Actemium UK, so showing that you're knowledgeable about current and emerging technologies can give you an edge.
✨Commit to Continuous Learning
As this is a full-time role, it's essential to express your eagerness for continuous improvement and learning. Share how you plan to enhance your skills and keep pace with the evolution of automation in the workforce – companies love candidates who are committed to growth and adaptability.
