Senior/Lead PLC Control systems engineer in Chester
Senior/Lead PLC Control systems engineer

Senior/Lead PLC Control systems engineer in Chester

Chester Temporary 48000 - 72000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Design and implement high-integrity PLC control systems in safety-critical environments.
  • Company: Join a leading recruitment group focused on securing top talent.
  • Benefits: Competitive rates, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in regulated industries like Nuclear with cutting-edge technology.
  • Qualifications: Experience in PLC control systems and strong engineering background required.
  • Other info: Dynamic role with excellent career advancement opportunities.

The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.

We are seeking an experienced PLC Control Systems Engineer to design, develop, implement, and test high-integrity PLC-based control systems within a regulated engineering environment. This role offers exposure to complex control systems, cyber-secure architectures, and highly regulated industries such as Nuclear.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, implement, and test PLC-based control systems to agreed engineering standards.
  • Produce high-quality engineering documentation, including:
  • User Requirement Specifications (URS) and Requirements Traceability Matrices (RTM)
  • System and Functional Design Specifications (SDD/FDS)
  • Software System Specifications (SSS) and Test Specifications (Module, Integration, System, Hardware)
  • Operation & Maintenance Manuals (O&M)
  • System rebuild documentation and I/O, alarm, and message schedules
  • Project Lifetime Records and Material Traceability Records
  • Support the Lead Engineer and Project Manager by:
    • Maintaining delivery schedules
    • Reporting technical issues, scope changes, and programme variations
  • Program PLC platforms (Rockwell, Schneider, Siemens) using IEC 61131 languages, producing robust function blocks and logic aligned with design documentation and engineering standards.
  • Collaborate with HMI/SCADA and database engineers to define control system architectures, including:
    • Network Architecture Diagrams
    • Interface documentation
    • Cyber-secure SCADA integration
  • Conduct formal in-house Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), ensuring strict change control and traceability.
  • Support Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) and commissioning activities when required.
  • Contribute to installation and commissioning documentation, operator and maintainer training, and post-delivery technical site support.
  • Interpret and work with engineering drawings related to PLC cubicles, enclosures, and interface panels, identifying design constraints and site impacts.
  • Engage with engineering teams and stakeholders to deliver high-quality, compliant PLC solutions.
  • Essential Experience

    • Significant experience designing and implementing PLC control systems.
    • Strong knowledge of IEC 61131 PLC programming languages, PLC hardware/software, and industrial communication protocols.
    • Demonstrable experience within the EC&I industry, preferably within Nuclear.
    • High attention to detail with a focus on accuracy, reliability, and quality.
    • Proven experience producing:
    • Functional and detailed design documentation
    • Formal test specifications
  • Experience performing structured testing, validation, and verification activities.
  • Excellent fault-finding and troubleshooting capability across complex control systems.
  • Good understanding of engineering drawings (electrical enclosures, control panels, MCCs, etc.).
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong technical documentation skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office.
  • Desirable Experience

    • Experience in highly regulated industries (Nuclear, MOD, Pharmaceutical).
    • Hands-on experience with Rockwell ControlLogix and/or Schneider M580 PLCs.
    • Familiarity with integrated HMI and SCADA systems.
    • Experience with OT Cyber Security and cyber-secure system design.
    • Delivery experience aligned with BS 61508 and/or BS 61511 (Functional Safety).

    Essential: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related discipline, or equivalent demonstrable experience with a strong focus on EC&I engineering using PLCs.

    Desirable: Membership of a relevant professional institution (e.g. IET). Certified training on Rockwell and/or Schneider PLC systems. Certified Cyber Security training.

    Senior/Lead PLC Control systems engineer in Chester employer: First Recruitment Group

    At First Recruitment Group, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer by fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. Our office-based roles in Warrington, Cumbria, and Stockton offer a hybrid working scheme, competitive rates, and the opportunity to work on high-integrity PLC control systems in safety-critical environments, ensuring that our engineers are at the forefront of innovation in regulated industries. We are committed to supporting our team with ongoing training and professional development, making us an attractive choice for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
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    Contact Detail:

    First Recruitment Group Recruiting Team

    StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

    We think this is how you could land Senior/Lead PLC Control systems engineer in Chester

    ✨Tip Number 1

    Network like a pro! Reach out to industry professionals on LinkedIn or attend local engineering meetups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly to hiring managers.

    ✨Tip Number 2

    Showcase your skills in action! If you’ve got any projects or case studies that highlight your PLC control systems expertise, don’t hesitate to share them during interviews. Real-world examples can set you apart from the competition.

    ✨Tip Number 3

    Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of IEC 61131 programming languages and control system design. Practise explaining complex concepts clearly, as communication is key in this field.

    ✨Tip Number 4

    Apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for talented engineers like you. Plus, applying directly can sometimes give you a better chance of getting noticed by recruiters who appreciate your initiative.

    We think you need these skills to ace Senior/Lead PLC Control systems engineer in Chester

    PLC Control Systems Design
    IEC 61131 PLC Programming Languages
    High-Integrity Control Systems
    Engineering Documentation Production
    Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT)
    Site Acceptance Testing (SAT)
    Fault-Finding and Troubleshooting
    Understanding of Engineering Drawings
    Communication Skills
    Project Management
    Cyber-Secure System Design
    Experience in Regulated Industries
    Technical Documentation Skills
    Proficiency with Microsoft Office
    Collaboration with HMI/SCADA Engineers

    Some tips for your application 🫡

    Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with PLC control systems. We want to see how your skills align with the specific requirements mentioned in the job description.

    Showcase Your Documentation Skills: Since producing high-quality engineering documentation is key, include examples of your previous work. We love seeing User Requirement Specifications or Functional Design Specifications that you've created!

    Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasise your experience in regulated environments, especially if you’ve worked in Nuclear or similar industries. We’re looking for candidates who understand the importance of compliance and safety.

    Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get you into the process smoothly.

    How to prepare for a job interview at First Recruitment Group

    ✨Know Your PLCs Inside Out

    Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of PLC programming languages, especially IEC 61131. Be ready to discuss your experience with Rockwell, Schneider, and Siemens platforms, as well as any specific projects you've worked on that highlight your skills.

    ✨Master the Documentation Game

    Since this role involves producing high-quality engineering documentation, be prepared to talk about your experience with User Requirement Specifications (URS) and Functional Design Specifications (FDS). Bring examples of your past work to showcase your attention to detail and technical writing skills.

    ✨Showcase Your Testing Expertise

    Highlight your experience with Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT). Be ready to discuss how you've ensured strict change control and traceability in your previous roles, as this is crucial in regulated environments.

    ✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently

    Strong communication skills are essential for this position. Practice explaining complex technical concepts in a straightforward manner, as you'll need to engage with various stakeholders. Remember, clarity can set you apart from other candidates!

    Senior/Lead PLC Control systems engineer in Chester
    First Recruitment Group
    Location: Chester
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