At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead software design and development for innovative automation projects.
- Company: Established engineering innovator in bespoke automation machinery.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hands-on experience, and mentorship opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in automation while collaborating with talented engineers.
- Qualifications: Strong background in automation software development and commissioning.
- Other info: Dynamic role with excellent career growth and mentoring junior engineers.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Our client is an established engineering innovator specialising in the design and manufacture of bespoke automation machinery. They develop high-performance, one-off or small-batch automated systems for customers across a range of advanced manufacturing sectors. Due to continued growth, they are seeking 2 Senior Software Engineers to take ownership of software design, implementation, and commissioning across multiple automation projects.
Role Overview
As a Senior Software Engineer, you will design, develop, document, and commission control software for custom automation machinery. You’ll take the lead on smaller software projects, produce Software Design Specifications (SDS), conduct Source Code Reviews (SCRs), and support commissioning both in-house and at customer sites. This is a hands-on, impactful role where you’ll collaborate closely with Principal Engineers, cross-functional engineering teams, and mentor junior engineers.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead software development activities for assigned automation projects.
- Produce clear and accurate Software Design Specifications (SDS).
- Conduct formal Source Code Reviews (SCRs) and provide structured feedback.
- Independently deliver software workstreams for smaller automation projects.
- Support and often lead commissioning activities (FAT/SAT), both on-site and in-house.
- Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, production, and project management teams.
- Mentor and support junior engineers on best practices and technical development.
Deliverables
- High-quality SDS documents guiding software architecture and implementation.
- Delivered software systems completed on time and in line with specifications.
- Completed SCRs with actionable, constructive feedback.
- Fully commissioned and tested automation systems.
- Demonstrable contribution to junior engineer training and development.
Required Experience & Skills
Essential
- Strong background in automation and control software development.
- Experience delivering software from specification to commissioning.
- Proven ability to write SDS documents and explain complex system behaviour.
- Hands-on commissioning experience for automated machinery.
- Strong understanding of automation safety integration.
Technical Essentials
- Advanced PLC/HMI development (e.g., Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000).
- Skilled in writing SDS and leading SCRs.
- Experience working within structured documentation processes.
Desirable
- Experience working with bespoke or one-off automated machinery.
- Integration of robotics or vision systems into control architectures.
- Familiarity with motion control tuning and diagnostics.
- Knowledge of version control systems.
- Degree in Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Controls Engineering.
Reporting Line & Collaboration
Reports to: Software Team Lead / Controls Manager
Works closely with: Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Production & Build, Commissioning Teams, Project Managers
Senior Software Engineer in Leeds employer: Alexander Daniels Global
Contact Detail:
Alexander Daniels Global Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Software Engineer in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the engineering field, attend industry meetups, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that Senior Software Engineer role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your past projects, especially those involving automation and control systems. We recommend including detailed descriptions of your contributions, as this will help potential employers see your hands-on experience and technical prowess.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on common technical questions related to PLC/HMI development and software commissioning. We suggest doing mock interviews with friends or colleagues to build confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged in their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Software Engineer in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills: When you're writing your application, make sure to highlight your experience in automation and control software development. We want to see how you've taken projects from specification to commissioning, so don’t hold back on the details!
Be Clear and Concise: Your Software Design Specifications (SDS) should be easy to read and understand. Use straightforward language and structure your documents well. Remember, clarity is key for us to see your thought process and technical expertise.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application for this role. Mention specific experiences that relate to the job description, like your hands-on commissioning experience or your work with advanced PLC/HMI development. We love seeing how you fit into our team!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved!
How to prepare for a job interview at Alexander Daniels Global
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your automation and control software development knowledge. Be ready to discuss your experience with PLC/HMI development, especially with tools like Siemens TIA Portal or Rockwell Studio 5000. They’ll want to see that you can not only talk the talk but also walk the walk.
✨Showcase Your Documentation Skills
Since producing clear Software Design Specifications (SDS) is key for this role, prepare to demonstrate your ability to write and explain complex system behaviours. Bring examples of past SDS documents you've created, and be ready to discuss how they guided your projects.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Expect some in-depth technical questions during the interview. They might ask about your hands-on commissioning experience or how you handle Source Code Reviews (SCRs). Think of specific scenarios where you provided constructive feedback or led a project to success.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
This role involves working closely with various teams, so highlight your collaboration skills. Share examples of how you've mentored junior engineers or worked alongside mechanical and electrical teams to deliver successful automation projects. Show them you’re a team player!