At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop PLC software for critical infrastructure projects.
- Company: Join GPS Links, a leader in automation integration.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, hybrid work, and 33 days annual leave.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team with long-term career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on essential UK infrastructure while growing your skills.
- Qualifications: Hands-on PLC experience and a passion for learning.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
Location: Remote Working / Bristol or South Wales Office
Salary: Competitive (depending on experience) + Overtime (subject to workload)
Working Pattern: Hybrid, dependent on project phase (development / commissioning)
Training Repayment Costs Owed to Current Employer: Considered on a case-by-case basis
About the Role
We're looking for practical, hands-on engineers with a foundation in PLCs who are ready to take the next step in their automation career. Whether your background is in installation, maintenance, software, or SCADA, if you understand control systems and want to get involved in full automation project delivery, we'd like to hear from you. In this role, you'll support projects from initial design through to on-site commissioning, working on systems that support critical UK infrastructure – particularly in the water, utilities, and energy sectors.
It's a great opportunity for someone who's technically capable and eager to broaden their skills across PLCs, SCADA, and real-world automation delivery. We offer a supportive team environment where you can grow, take on more responsibility, and progress your career in industrial automation.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and develop PLC software based on Functional Design Specifications (FDS), derived from the client's control philosophy or User Requirement Specification (URS).
- Carry out simulations and testing throughout the project lifecycle, including iFAT, cFAT, and SAT.
- Contribute to the setup, configuration, and validation of industrial networks.
- Develop and modify SCADA and HMI applications using industry-standard platforms.
- Provide on-site and remote commissioning support, including I/O checks and system validation, and diagnose and resolve control system issues during commissioning and post-installation callouts.
- Collaborate effectively with engineers, electricians, and client stakeholders to deliver integrated solutions.
- Ensure all software, documentation, and testing procedures comply with Quality Management System (QMS) and client requirements.
Essential Experience (proficiency in one or more)
- Siemens TIA Portal – including Step 7 (S7-1200/S7-1500) and legacy support for S7-300/400.
- Mitsubishi GX Works2, GX Works3, or GX Developer – used for programming FX, Q, and iQ-R series PLCs.
- Schneider Electric EcoStruxure Control Expert (formerly known as Unity Pro) – used for Modicon M340, M580, and Premium PLCs.
- Rockwell Automation Studio 5000 (formerly RSLogix 5000) – for ControlLogix and CompactLogix PLCs.
Desirable Experience & Qualifications
- Experience with SCADA platforms such as WinCC, iFIX, VTScada, ClearSCADA, InTouch, Citect, or Ignition.
- Motor control systems including VSDs, soft starters, intelligent overloads, and relay/contactor logic.
- OT networking: Ethernet protocols (TCP/IP, UDP), industrial protocols (Modbus, Profibus, Profinet), VLANs, fibre optic networks, network redundancy (e.g. MRP, RSTP), and basic routing, plus awareness of cybersecurity standards such as IEC 62443.
- Process control knowledge, including PID tuning, loop optimisation, and control sequencing.
- Strong electrical competence – fault finding, I/O testing, and panel wiring (digital and analogue), with experience commissioning automation software on-site, including I/O validation, system testing, and live fault resolution.
- Familiarity with UK water industry telemetry systems, including Servelec S250, S500, and S2000 outstations, DNP3 communication protocols, and cellular modem integration.
- Industry background in water, utilities, energy, or manufacturing environments.
- HNC/HND in Electrical, Mechanical, Automation, or a related engineering discipline (or equivalent experience), and/or an ECS or CSCS card.
- Willingness to travel within the UK as required for site-based commissioning and support.
What We're Looking For
- Engineers with a solid base understanding of PLCs and a willingness to continue learning.
- Problem-solvers who enjoy hands-on technical work and collaborative delivery, and are able to develop structured, well-documented software from client specifications.
- Confident delivering high-quality outcomes under pressure and in dynamic site environments.
- Team players who support both clients and colleagues to achieve the best project outcomes.
- Comfortable engaging with clients and stakeholders during design, delivery, and commissioning.
- Self-driven and accountable, with a strong sense of ownership and pride in their work.
- Full UK driving licence (essential).
What We Offer
- Competitive salary based on experience, with overtime opportunities (project-dependent).
- Hybrid working with travel across the UK.
- 33 days annual leave (25 days + 8 bank holidays), plus a Holiday Buy/Sell scheme.
- Company pension and Cycle to Work scheme.
- Discounted national gym membership and Employee discount platform.
- Professional fees paid and EV/hybrid car lease scheme.
- Health and wellbeing support including mental health champions and occupational health access.
About GPS Links
GPS Links is a specialist automation integration company delivering control system and SCADA solutions across the UK. We support essential infrastructure by helping our clients modernise and futureproof their operations. Our engineering team covers the full automation lifecycle – from system design and software development to on-site commissioning and ongoing support. We value practical engineering, technical reliability, and delivering work that stands the test of time. GPS Links is part of the RSE Group, which also brings wider career growth opportunities for our engineers.
Apply Now
If you have hands-on PLC experience and want to grow into broader automation project delivery across real-world infrastructure, we'd love to hear from you. Even if you don't tick every box, we're keen to speak with motivated engineers who are ready to learn and progress. We're building a team for the long term – and we're looking for people who want to grow with us.
Locations
Software Engineer (PLC & SCADA) in Newport, Wales employer: GPS Ltd
At GPS Links, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer by fostering a supportive and collaborative work culture that encourages continuous learning and professional growth. Our hybrid working model allows for flexibility while engaging in meaningful projects that contribute to critical UK infrastructure, particularly in the water, utilities, and energy sectors. With competitive salaries, generous leave policies, and a commitment to employee wellbeing, we are dedicated to creating a rewarding environment for our engineers to thrive and advance their careers in industrial automation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Software Engineer (PLC & SCADA) in Newport, Wales
✨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 GPS Ltd!
✨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 Software Engineer (PLC & SCADA) position at GPS Ltd, 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 GPS Ltd 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 Software Engineer (PLC & SCADA) role at GPS Ltd!
We think you need these skills to ace Software Engineer (PLC & SCADA) in Newport, Wales
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 GPS Ltd 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 GPS Ltd
✨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 GPS Ltd.
✨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 GPS Ltd, 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.
