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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead software delivery for innovative automation projects and mentor a team of engineers.
- Company: A leading designer of bespoke automation machinery in advanced manufacturing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and opportunities to work with cutting-edge technology.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with dynamic teams across various engineering disciplines.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in automation while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Expertise in control software and proven leadership in automation projects required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Our client is a leading designer and manufacturer of complex, bespoke automation machinery used across advanced manufacturing sectors. They deliver highly engineered, one-off automated systems, integrating cutting-edge control technologies, robotics, and precision motion. Due to continued growth and increased project complexity, they are seeking a Principal Software Engineer to lead software delivery across major automation projects.
Role Overview
As the Principal Software Engineer, you will act as the senior technical authority for software across complex automation projects. You will lead software design and implementation, validate Software Design Specifications (SDS), oversee Source Code Reviews (SCRs), and ensure software is delivered to the highest engineering standards. This role is central to successful delivery: you will guide engineers, resolve technical issues, manage task delegation, and ensure best practices are followed from design through commissioning.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and oversee all software implementation for major automation projects.
- Create, review, and validate Software Design Specifications (SDS) to ensure accuracy and completeness.
- Delegate development tasks and maintain oversight of progress, quality, and compliance.
- Lead Source Code Reviews (SCRs) across all major software modules.
- Drive the software commissioning phase for large/complex systems, integrating software into wider commissioning activities.
- Act as the senior engineering authority—troubleshooting, resolving issues, and guiding decision-making.
- Mentor, coach, and develop engineers to elevate technical performance standards.
- Ensure strict adherence to established development, documentation, and commissioning processes.
- Collaborate closely across mechanical, electrical, production, commissioning, and project management functions.
Outputs & Deliverables
- Software systems delivered on time, to specification, and fully aligned with project standards.
- Validated and compliant SCRs, SDS documents, and supporting technical documentation.
- Fully commissioned automation systems with complete testing and documentation.
- Clear task delegation and consistent technical leadership across software teams.
- Occasional on-site support for commissioning, troubleshooting, and customer technical engagement.
Required Experience & Skills
Essential
- Expert experience developing and delivering control software for automated machinery.
- Proven leadership delivering major automation software projects end-to-end.
- Deep understanding of SDS creation, validation, and project application.
- Strong knowledge of automation safety, compliance, and system-level diagnostics.
- Experience leading commissioning and supporting escalations on complex systems.
Technical Essentials
- Expert-level PLC/HMI development across multiple platforms (e.g., Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000, etc.).
- Strong competence managing commissioning processes and resolving complex issues.
- Highly proficient in SCR methodologies and SDS interpretation.
- Experience with advanced automation technologies such as robotics, vision systems, and data-driven automation.
Desirable
- Experience delivering multi-disciplinary automation projects.
- Technical expertise in robotics, vision systems, or motion control tuning.
- Familiarity with functional safety standards, compliance frameworks, and software lifecycle management.
- Degree in Engineering, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
Collaboration & Reporting
Works closely with: Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Production & Build, Commissioning, Project Management, and Aftercare/Service Teams.
Principal Software Engineer in England employer: Alexander Daniels Global
Contact Detail:
Alexander Daniels Global Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Software Engineer in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with folks in the industry. Attend meetups, webinars, or even local tech events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your past projects, especially those related to automation and software engineering. This gives potential employers a taste of what you can do and sets you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and soft skills. Practice common interview questions, especially around software design and project management. We want you to feel confident and ready to impress!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. Let’s get you that Principal Software Engineer role!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Software Engineer in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Principal Software Engineer role. Highlight your experience with control software and automation projects, as this will show us you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role involves leading teams and guiding engineers, don’t forget to mention your leadership experience. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed projects or mentored others in the past.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it's relevant. We want to see your skills and experience without having to sift through unnecessary fluff!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. This way, we can ensure your application gets to the right people quickly and efficiently. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Alexander Daniels Global
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of control software for automated machinery. Be ready to discuss your experience with PLC/HMI development and how you've led major automation projects. This is your chance to showcase your expertise, so don’t hold back!
✨Master the SDS and SCR
Familiarise yourself with Software Design Specifications (SDS) and Source Code Reviews (SCR). Be prepared to explain how you've created and validated SDS in past projects, and share examples of how you've conducted SCRs to ensure high-quality software delivery.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Software Engineer, you'll be expected to lead and mentor others. Think of specific instances where you've guided teams through complex issues or delegated tasks effectively. Highlight your ability to elevate technical performance standards and foster collaboration across different engineering functions.
✨Prepare for Technical Challenges
Expect to face some technical questions or scenarios during the interview. Brush up on troubleshooting techniques and be ready to discuss how you've resolved complex issues in previous roles. Demonstrating your problem-solving skills will show that you're the right fit for leading software delivery in challenging environments.