At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead automation projects and improve manufacturing processes with cutting-edge technology.
- Company: Join Caterpillar, a global leader in construction and mining equipment.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days annual leave, a bonus, and a contributory pension scheme.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with limitless career opportunities and a commitment to sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable manufacturing while developing your engineering skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in controls engineering and automation systems is preferred.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 57000 £ per year.
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc. When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do – but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here – we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.
The Opportunity: We are seeking a Manufacturing Engineer within Controls to act as the controls and automation subject matter expert within Manufacturing Engineering. Supporting major capital and continuous improvement initiatives, you will lead controls integration, modernise legacy systems and deliver automation solutions that improve safety, quality and productivity. Your work will be instrumental in maintaining reliable manufacturing operations while shaping the future controls and operational technology landscape of the facility.
As a Controls Engineer, you are accountable for, but not limited to:
- Identify, develop and implement automation and controls solutions that improve OEE, safety, quality and cost performance, taking projects from concept through to production deployment.
- Design, program and support Siemens and Mitsubishi PLC, HMI and SCADA systems, while driving controls standardisation, modernisation of legacy assets and alignment with operational technology architecture.
- Lead controls lifecycle management activities, including hardware obsolescence planning, migration strategies, cybersecurity considerations, system upgrades and long-term manufacturing supportability.
- Provide technical leadership and escalation support for automated manufacturing production lines, acting as the subject matter expert for controls, automation and machine safety whilst ensuring reliable operation through effective troubleshooting, root cause analysis and support to maintenance and operations teams.
- Lead manufacturing technology and continuous improvement projects, managing scope, budgets, resources, suppliers and timelines, while supporting equipment specification, FAT, SAT, commissioning and successful production handover.
- Collaborate with manufacturing, quality, facilities, engineering and external partners to develop robust manufacturing solutions using tools such as process flow mapping, PFMEA and control plans, while promoting Design for Manufacture (DFM), lean principles, standardised workflows and mentoring others in controls and manufacturing best practices.
What You Can Demonstrate:
- Level Working Knowledge
- Engineering – Manufacturing (MFG): Delivers engineering solutions through the specification, integration, commissioning and support of manufacturing equipment and control systems. Applies engineering standards and technical specifications to ensure safe, reliable and sustainable manufacturing operations, including equipment specification, electrical design, commissioning activities and lifecycle upgrades that support long-term manufacturing capability.
- Collaborative Automation: Drives the implementation and optimisation of automation technologies, including PLC-controlled equipment, robotics and automated manufacturing systems. Applies controls engineering expertise to improve safety, quality, productivity and operational performance.
- Manufacturing Processes: Applies manufacturing process control methodologies to introduce, monitor and improve production systems. Utilises process flow mapping, PFMEA, control plans, FAT and SAT to support robust process design, equipment integration and successful production handover.
- Problem Solving: Acts as a technical specialist in the diagnosis and resolution of complex controls and automation issues. Applies expertise in Siemens TIA Portal and Mitsubishi GX Works PLCs, HMI and SCADA systems, industrial networking technologies (Profinet, Ethernet/IP and OPC UA), motion control, drives, machine safety systems including safety PLCs, safety scanners and light guarding, machinery risk assessment and functional safety standards (ISO 13849 and IEC 62061) to deliver safe, reliable and supportable manufacturing solutions.
What You May Have:
- Manufacturing & Automation Systems: Working knowledge of assembly, test and finish manufacturing operations, including AGV/AMR technologies, installation, commissioning, maintenance and fleet management. Familiarity with ISA-95 manufacturing architectures would be advantageous.
- Quality & Continuous Improvement: Applies structured problem-solving and continuous improvement methodologies, including 8D, 5-Why, Fishbone and Six Sigma, to improve quality, reliability and operational performance.
- Technical & Professional Capability: Knowledge of functional safety principles and their application to machinery, automation and manufacturing systems within a production environment.
What You Will Get: One Company, Limitless Opportunities. Caterpillar is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives. We do business on every continent, principally operating through three primary segments – Construction Industries, Resource Industries, and Energy & Transportation – and providing financing and related services through our Financial Products segment. Careers at Caterpillar are limitless, we have opportunities in Engineering, Human Resources, Manufacturing, Marketing, Sales, Supply Chain and so much more. You can create the career you want. It’s your time and talent, make it count.
Our Sustainability Commitment: Caterpillar has a long-standing commitment to sustainability, one of our five Values in Action. It is part of who we are and what we do. We actively lead sustainable green initiatives to preserve the environment, help reduce poverty with the Caterpillar Foundation and stay involved in the communities we help build.
Benefits: 27 days annual leave + bank holidays, opportunity to buy additional holiday, 10% Bonus, contributory pension scheme - Caterpillar will double the employee's contribution up to 10%, contributory share scheme - Caterpillar will match 50% of the employee's contribution, Employee Support Networks – join groups that offer support, connection, and a sense of community, optional flexible benefits including access to private health and dental care plans, EV car lease etc.
Travel: Up to 5% UK travel may be required, including visits to other facilities as needed.
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Controls Engineer - Manufacturing Automation in Desford employer: Caterpillar Brazil
Caterpillar Inc. is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and growth of its employees in Shrewsbury. With a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation, the company offers competitive benefits such as 25 days of annual leave, a generous pension scheme, and opportunities for professional development. The collaborative work culture fosters teamwork and encourages employees to contribute to meaningful projects that shape a better world.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Controls Engineer - Manufacturing Automation in Desford
✨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 Caterpillar Brazil!
✨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 Controls Engineer - Manufacturing Automation position at Caterpillar Brazil, 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 Caterpillar Brazil 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 Controls Engineer - Manufacturing Automation role at Caterpillar Brazil!
We think you need these skills to ace Controls Engineer - Manufacturing Automation in Desford
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 Caterpillar Brazil 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 Caterpillar Brazil
✨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 Caterpillar Brazil.
✨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 Caterpillar Brazil, 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.
