Senior Controls & Robotics Engineer in Newport

EnerSys is a global leader in stored energy solutions for industrial applications. We have over thirty manufacturing and assembly plants worldwide servicing over 10,000 customers in more than 100 countries. Worldwide headquarters are located in Reading, PA, USA with regional headquarters in Europe and Asia. We complement our extensive line of Motive Power and Energy Systems with a full range of integrated services and systems.

Job Purpose

Reporting to the Site Engineering Manager, the Senior Controls and Robotics Engineer will lead automation, controls, and electrical projects across the site. This role involves supporting production needs, driving continuous improvement initiatives, and managing projects from concept through to completion using both internal teams and external partners.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead and take full ownership of site automation and control projects, from initial specifications through design, implementation, commissioning, validation, and final handover.
• Manage and troubleshoot control systems including PLCs, HMIs, robotics, vision systems, VFDs, servo drives, and SCADA.
• Identify and resolve complex technical issues within automation and electrical systems.
• Develop and implement standardized control systems, logic, and technical documentation.
• Act as the site liaison for the commissioning and start-up of new systems with OEMs and system integrators.
• Ensure proper documentation, training, and handover of all new installations and system changes.
• Develop new PLC programs to improve process performance and safety.
• Diagnose and resolve issues in PLC code, fieldbus networks, and integrated control systems.
• Take responsibility for high-voltage electrical systems and ensure compliance with HSE standards.
• Maintain up-to-date backups of all automation and control systems.
• Support the development of team capabilities, including training, mentoring, and competency assessments of engineers and technicians.

Qualifications

• Degree in Automation, Electrical or Electronic Engineering (BSc/BEng/MEng/HND).
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a similar role within a manufacturing environment.
• Experience in Project Management.

Experience & Technical Knowledge

• Strong hands‑on experience with PLC systems (Allen Bradley, Siemens S5/S7), HMIs, SCADA, and industrial communication protocols (Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Experience in robotics programming and motion control systems.
• Familiarity with vision systems, servo drives, VFDs, and safety systems (e.g. Pilz).
• Solid understanding of electrical systems, including high‑voltage networks and three‑phase systems.
• Ability to read, update, and manage electrical schematics and technical documentation.
• Basic understanding of IT infrastructure (networking, server architecture, SQL databases).
• Knowledge of project management tools and methodologies.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong technical troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts for various stakeholders.
• Proven leadership and mentoring capabilities.
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills.
• Ability to influence and collaborate across cross‑functional teams.
• High level of professionalism and confidentiality.

EnerSys provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.