At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to commission and troubleshoot PLC systems in a fast-paced automotive environment.
- Company: Leading industrial automation firm with exciting projects in Dagenham.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible hours, and hands-on experience in cutting-edge technology.
- Other info: Great opportunity for career growth in a thriving industry.
- Why this job: Make an impact on major automotive projects while enhancing your engineering skills.
- Qualifications: Experience with Siemens S7 and strong troubleshooting skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50 - 50 £ per hour.
We are currently recruiting 2 experienced PLC Controls Engineers for a major industrial automation and automotive manufacturing project in Dagenham. This is a hands-on commissioning role suited to engineers who are confident working independently in a live manufacturing environment, diagnosing faults, modifying PLC software and bringing automated production equipment online.
Role Details
- Position: PLC Controls Engineer - Contractor
- Location: Dagenham
- Rate: £40-£50ph (Outside IR35)
- Working Hours: Monday-Friday, 07:30-16:00
- Contract: Contractor position
- Vacancies: 2
The Role
You will be supporting a major automotive automation project, working directly on production-line equipment and automated stations. The role will involve a combination of PLC programming, software modification, fault-finding and live factory commissioning. Candidates should be comfortable working under pressure and able to quickly diagnose issues between PLC logic and physical plant equipment.
Key Responsibilities
- Download and commission code to Siemens S7 PLCs on live production equipment.
- Test sequences, safety circuits, inputs and outputs.
- Modify existing PLC programs and develop/write code where required.
- Diagnose and resolve PLC, controls and runtime faults.
- Troubleshoot software and hardware issues during commissioning.
- Ensure software and controls comply with required FAST standards.
- Work closely with electricians, mechanical technicians, hardware installation teams and site management.
- Identify and clear snags and fault logs.
- Optimise automated station operation and cycle times.
- Support the safe commissioning and handover of fully operational production cells.
Essential Experience
- Strong experience with Siemens Classic S7 / STEP 7 v5.x.
- Extensive experience using SIMATIC Manager — this role is not primarily TIA Portal.
- Proven experience in live-plant automotive commissioning.
- Strong PLC troubleshooting and fault-finding ability.
- Ability to modify existing PLC code and develop/write code.
- Confident working independently on-site in a fast-paced production environment.
- Practical knowledge of industrial automation systems and commissioning.
Highly Desirable
- Direct experience working to Ford FAST standards.
- Experience with Profibus and Profinet.
- Basic HMI integration experience.
- Previous automotive OEM commissioning experience.
Candidates without direct FAST experience will still be considered if they have extensive, high-level commissioning experience on other major automotive OEM projects, such as Jaguar Land Rover, BMW or VAG, and have worked to comparable controls and software standards.
Who We're Looking For
We are looking for experienced commissioning-focused Controls Engineers who can hit the ground running. If you have strong Siemens S7/STEP 7 experience, a background in automotive automation and the ability to troubleshoot and modify PLC code directly on a live production line, this could be an excellent contract opportunity.
PLC Controls Engineer - Contract employer: Ganymede Solutions Limited
Ganymede Solutions Limited is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Billingham where innovation meets compliance in the pharma sector. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, we provide opportunities for professional development and leadership within a collaborative team culture, ensuring that every team member can contribute meaningfully to impactful projects while enjoying a supportive workplace.
Contact Details:
Ganymede Solutions Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PLC Controls Engineer - Contract
✨Join Industry Meetups
Get stuck into automation and control systems meetups in your area. Not only will you learn a ton, but it's a fantastic way to meet professionals who are already in the field. You never know who might know about temporary roles at companies like Ganymede Solutions Limited or elsewhere!
✨Use Niche Job Boards
While big job boards are fine, don’t overlook niche sites focused specifically on automation and control systems. Websites like ControlGlobal or Automation.com often post temporary roles that might not make it to mainstream sites. Keep an eye out there to snag a role that fits your skills!
✨Engage in Online Communities
Get involved in online forums and communities focused on automation and control systems. Platforms like Reddit or LinkedIn groups can be goldmines for job leads and insider tips. Plus, you'll be mingling with experts who can give you insights about companies like Ganymede Solutions Limited.
✨Flexible Availability is Key
Since you're looking at temporary work, make sure to highlight your flexibility and quick-start ability. In industries like automation, needs can pop up unexpectedly, so being ready to jump in can set you apart from others. Remember, we recommend applying directly through our website for the freshest updates!
We think you need these skills to ace PLC Controls Engineer - Contract
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Technical Skills:When applying for a role in automation and control systems, make sure your CV showcases your specific technical skills. Include programming languages, control system software, and any relevant hardware experience. We've seen that hands-on experience with PLCs or SCADA systems can really make your application pop!
Tailor Your Portfolio:Since this is a temporary role, we recommend including a portfolio that highlights your past projects or any relevant troubleshooting experiences. Showcase your problem-solving skills in action—this could give you an edge in demonstrating your capability to adapt quickly to the team at Ganymede Solutions Limited.
Show Off Your Flexibility:Temporary positions often require quick learning and adaptability. In your cover letter, express your eagerness to jump in and contribute right from the get-go. Highlight any previous short-term roles where you adapted to new systems or teams swiftly; it's all about that 'can-do' attitude!
Don’t Forget to Highlight Certifications:In automation-control-systems, having certifications is a big deal! Be sure to list any relevant qualifications clearly on your CV—whether that's in PLC programming, industrial automation, or safety standards. This can really show that you’re not just experienced but also committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ganymede Solutions Limited
✨Showcase Your Technical Know-How
In the automation control systems field, it's crucial to flaunt your technical skills. Be prepared to discuss your experience with specific programming languages or tools like PLCs, SCADA systems, or HMI software. If you have hands-on projects, bring a portfolio that highlights your work; it'll speak volumes about your capabilities.
✨Expect Scenario-Based Questions
During your interview for this temporary role, be ready to tackle scenario-based questions. The interviewer might want to see how you would handle specific troubleshooting or design challenges in automation systems. Think of examples from your past experience where you had to solve a problem or implement a complex system.
✨Flexibility is Key
Given that this position is temporary, it’s vital to express your adaptability and enthusiasm for short-term projects. Be ready to discuss your willingness to learn quickly and pick up new technologies or processes. Emphasise how you've thrived in past temporary roles or internships and what you learnt from those experiences.
✨Demonstrate Your Understanding of Industry Standards
Ensure you're familiar with industry standards and regulations related to automation control systems. Talk about any relevant certifications you hold or ongoing education you've pursued. Showing that you’re knowledgeable about compliance and safety standards can give you an edge in the interview at Ganymede Solutions Limited.
