At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and support innovative electrical systems while collaborating with diverse teams.
- Company: Join James Fisher, a global leader in engineering services with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, private medical insurance, and early finishes on Fridays.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in safety and innovation within the exciting maritime sector.
- Qualifications: Proven skills in electrical design and control systems; experience with major PLC platforms.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with clear career development pathways and commitment to diversity.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The role focuses on delivering engineering design solutions and through‑life support across the JFD product range, from developing new designs to assisting clients with upgrades to existing equipment. It requires strong communication, the ability to work both independently and as part of a team, and excellent organisational skills. A meticulous, detail‑driven approach is essential, particularly when producing or reviewing technical documentation. The role also demands adaptability to changing requirements, ownership of tasks through to completion, and a commitment to delivering high‑quality work to tight deadlines. Ensuring solutions are cost‑efficient and delivered on time and within budget remains central to meeting expectations.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Provide engineering design input to new systems and products and provide support to the existing product range by assessing technical queries.
- Liaise with internal JFD departments such as sales, supply chain and production to ensure the best technical solution is provided in all instances.
- Creation of part numbers and bill of materials and sourcing suitable components and materials when required.
- Creation of engineering documentation such as specifications, proposals, assembly instructions, test procedures, certification and reports and checking detailed manufacturing drawings and documentation.
- Ensuring engineering solutions are provided on time and on budget and adhere to engineering and company standards and processes (compliance to internal and external standards and regulations).
- Accountability and responsibility as the discipline technical approver of drawings and documentation generated within the JFD engineering team.
- Where applicable, responsible for promoting engagement to achieve a resilient diverse high performing team.
What We’re Looking For
- Proven electrical and control system design skills.
- Experience with major PLC platforms: Siemens (TIA Portal/Step 7), WAGO, Codesys etc.
- Ability to write, debug, and optimise code in Ladder Logic, Structured Text, Function Block Diagrams.
- Experience designing and configuring screens and alarms is desirable.
- Skilled in generating design calculations.
- Ability to read and create electrical schematics, P&IDs, loop diagrams, and wiring drawings.
- Understanding of instrumentation: sensors, valves, actuators, drives.
- System Integration & Commissioning Experience integrating PLCs with HMIs, Drives, Remote I/O.
- Ability to troubleshoot on-site during commissioning.
- Previous product design experience would be advantageous.
- Selection of subsea cables, connectors, and penetrators.
- Demonstrated experience in an electrical engineer or control systems engineer role.
- Experience with Product Lifecycle Management system for generating and storage of engineering packages.
- Electrical and Electronics / Control Systems engineering degree or equivalent industry experience.
- Familiar with working to marine/defence standards and Classification Society rules (LR, DNV, DEFSTAN etc.)
Benefits & Other Information
- Early finish on Fridays.
- Competitive salary and benefits package aligned with experience (Private Medical Insurance, Life Assurance, Cycle to work scheme, Company Pension, etc.).
- Clear pathways for career development and organisational visibility.
- Inclusive and supportive culture that values individual contributions.
- Meaningful work with impact across safety, innovation, and global operations.
About Us
James Fisher is a global engineering services company operating across Energy, Defence, and Maritime Transport. With a strong heritage in maritime operations, we now deliver innovative solutions in challenging environments. Our One James Fisher strategy is focused on building a unified, sustainable business within the Blue Economy, driving progress through technology, expertise, and collaboration. James Fisher Defence (JFD), part of the James Fisher Group, is a global leader in underwater capability, delivering cutting-edge diving, submarine rescue, and hyperbaric solutions to both commercial and defence markets. We are committed to diversity and strongly encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds. We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer.
Senior Electrical Engineer (Controls PLC) employer: James Fisher and Sons plc
Contact Detail:
James Fisher and Sons plc Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Electrical Engineer (Controls PLC)
✨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 lead to insider info about job openings and even referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to electrical engineering and control systems. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online platforms to get comfortable with articulating your skills and experiences.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your projects! Whether it's through a portfolio or a LinkedIn profile, highlight your past work, especially any relevant designs or systems you've worked on. This gives potential employers a tangible sense of your capabilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our team at James Fisher Defence.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Electrical Engineer (Controls PLC)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Senior Electrical Engineer role. Highlight your experience with PLC platforms and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background aligns with our needs. Don’t forget to mention your adaptability and commitment to high-quality work, as these are key for us.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: When filling out your application, be specific about your technical skills. Mention your experience with design calculations, electrical schematics, and any relevant software tools. We love detail-driven candidates who can demonstrate their expertise!
Apply Early!: We encourage you to apply through our website as soon as possible. Given the volume of applications we receive, applying early can help ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at James Fisher and Sons plc
✨Know Your PLCs Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of major PLC platforms like Siemens, WAGO, and Codesys. Be ready to discuss your experience with ladder logic, structured text, and function block diagrams. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the technology but can also apply it effectively.
✨Showcase Your Design Skills
Prepare to talk about your previous design projects, especially those involving electrical schematics and P&IDs. Bring examples of your work if possible, and be ready to explain your thought process behind design decisions. This will demonstrate your meticulous approach and attention to detail.
✨Communicate Like a Pro
Since strong communication is key for this role, practice articulating your ideas clearly and concisely. Think about how you would liaise with different departments like sales and production. Being able to convey technical information in an understandable way will set you apart.
✨Be Ready for Problem-Solving
Expect questions that test your troubleshooting skills, especially in on-site commissioning scenarios. Prepare examples of past challenges you've faced and how you resolved them. This will highlight your adaptability and commitment to delivering high-quality work under pressure.