At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead software delivery for complex automation projects and mentor engineers.
- Company: Dynamic engineering firm in Tadcaster with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities to travel for customer support.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in automation while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Expertise in PLC and HMI development, with leadership experience in software projects.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Location: On site / Tadcaster LS24, UK
Job type: Permanent / Full-time
Sector and subsector: Engineering | General
Salary: Competitive salary
Purpose of the Role
To lead the software delivery for complex bespoke automation projects. The Principal Software Engineer ensures that software is implemented to the highest standards, guides engineers through the development and commissioning process, delegates technical tasks, and ensures compliance with Software Design Specifications (SDS) and company procedures.
Key Accountabilities / Responsibilities
- Lead and oversee software implementation for major automation projects.
- Create, review and validate SDS documents for accuracy and functional completeness.
- Delegate development tasks, monitor progress, and ensure standards are maintained across the project team.
- Conduct and lead SCRs for all major modules, ensuring clarity, quality, and traceability.
- Deliver software successfully through the commissioning phase for large or complex systems, coordinating software integration into the commissioning process.
- Act as the senior technical authority on projects, resolving issues, mentoring engineers, and supporting performance improvements.
- Work collaboratively, effectively, and efficiently across disciplines to ensure project success.
- Promote adherence to established development, documentation, and commissioning practices.
Outputs/Deliverables
- Project-compliant software systems delivered to specification, standards and project time frames.
- Validated SCRs and approved documentation across team members.
- Fully commissioned systems with fully documented outcomes as per Mpac process.
- Delegated task tracking and technical mentoring.
- Travel to customer sites on occasion for Software support and solutions.
Mpac Core Values
- Integrity
- Drive
- Expertise
Knowledge and Experience
- Expert experience in control software development, including leading commissioning activities.
- Demonstrated experience leading software teams and projects from start to finish.
- Deep understanding of applying and validating SDS across project stages.
- Technical expertise in system-level diagnostics, and safety compliance and integration.
- Experience coordinating with multi-discipline teams during large system deliveries.
- Technical expertise in vision, robotics, or motion tuning.
Technical Skills and Qualifications
- Expert-level PLC and HMI development across multiple platforms.
- Skilled in overseeing commissioning and managing technical escalations.
- Proficient in SCR practices and SDS interpretation.
- Experience with advanced automation technologies (robotics, vision, data).
- Familiarity with functional safety, standards compliance, and software lifecycle management.
- Degree in Engineering, Software, or related discipline.
Relationship Working relationships with: Mechanical
Principal Software Engineer (PLCs) employer: Hollybank Trustees Ltd
Contact Detail:
Hollybank Trustees Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Software Engineer (PLCs)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the engineering field, especially those who work at companies you're interested in. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and showcasing your expertise in PLC and HMI development. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online platforms to get comfortable with your responses.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your projects! Bring along examples of your previous work, especially those that highlight your experience in leading software teams and complex automation projects. Visuals can make a big impact!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Software Engineer (PLCs)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Software Engineer role. Highlight your experience in control software development and any leadership roles you've had. We want to see how your skills match up with what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Projects: Include specific examples of complex automation projects you've led or contributed to. We love seeing real-world applications of your skills, so don’t hold back on the details that show off your expertise!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to describe your experience and achievements. We appreciate clarity, especially when it comes to technical details!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it makes the process smoother for everyone involved.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hollybank Trustees Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your control software development knowledge, especially around PLC and HMI systems. Be ready to discuss your past projects in detail, focusing on how you led teams and ensured compliance with Software Design Specifications.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading software teams and managing complex automation projects. Think about times when you delegated tasks effectively or resolved technical escalations, as these will demonstrate your capability as a Principal Software Engineer.
✨Understand the Company’s Values
Familiarise yourself with the company’s core values: Integrity, Drive, Expertise, and Knowledge. Be prepared to discuss how you embody these values in your work and how they align with your approach to project management and team collaboration.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company’s current projects, team dynamics, and future goals. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.