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- Tasks: Lead and mentor a team in controls engineering for innovative automation projects.
- Company: Global leader in warehouse automation and material-handling technologies.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance-based bonus, car allowance, healthcare, and tech perks.
- Why this job: Make an impact in cutting-edge automation while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in controls engineering and strong PLC/SCADA knowledge required.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with opportunities for career growth and continuous improvement.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
John Charles Search has been retained on an exclusive basis by a global leader in warehouse automation and materialâhandling technologies to identify a Controls Manager who will lead controls strategy and project delivery across UK automation operations.
Package: Bonus: 10% (performance-based) Benefits: Car / Car Allowance, Pension, Healthcare, Phone & Laptop provided
The Role: As the Controls Manager, you will lead all aspects of controls engineering across multiple automation projects, from concept development through commissioning. You'll oversee a growing team of controls engineers, ensuring robust system design, safety compliance, and seamless integration of PLC, SCADA, and motion systems within complex automated environments.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead, develop, and mentor the controls engineering team across multiple UK projects.
- Oversee system architecture, PLC programming standards, safety compliance, and commissioning processes.
- Ensure highâquality delivery of control systems for conveyors, sortation, AS/RS, and robotic automation solutions.
- Collaborate crossâfunctionally with mechanical, electrical, and software teams to support seamless project execution.
- Drive continuous improvement in controls strategy, standardisation, and system optimisation.
- Act as a technical authority during customer meetings, design reviews, and onsite commissioning activities.
About You:
- Proven background in controls engineering within warehouse automation, conveyor systems, robotics, or material handling.
- Strong experience with PLC/SCADA platforms (e.g., Siemens, AllenâBradley, Beckhoff, Mitsubishi).
- Handsâon commissioning experience with automated warehouse or logistics systems.
- Demonstrated leadership abilityâteam management or project lead experience is strongly preferred.
- Excellent problemâsolving and communication skills, with the capability to engage confidently with customers and internal stakeholders.
- Structured, proactive, and able to drive projects to completion within a fastâpaced engineering environment.
Seniority level: MidâSenior level
Employment type: Fullâtime
Job function: Management and Engineering
Industries: Warehousing and Storage, Automation Machinery Manufacturing
Automation Manager in London employer: John Charles Search
Contact Detail:
John Charles Search Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice đ¤Ť
We think this is how you could land Automation Manager in London
â¨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend local meetups. We all know that sometimes itâs not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream job.
â¨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to controls engineering. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online platforms to get comfortable with your responses.
â¨Tip Number 3
Showcase your projects! Bring a portfolio or case studies to interviews that highlight your experience with PLC/SCADA systems and automation projects. We want to see your hands-on experience in action!
â¨Tip Number 4
Donât forget to apply through our website! Itâs the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we often have exclusive roles listed that you wonât find anywhere else.
We think you need these skills to ace Automation Manager in London
Some tips for your application đŤĄ
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Automation Manager role. Highlight your experience with controls engineering and any relevant projects you've led. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about warehouse automation and how your background makes you the perfect fit for our team. Keep it engaging and personal.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role involves leading a team, be sure to highlight your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've mentored others or driven projects to success. We love seeing candidates who can inspire and guide their teams!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. Itâs the best way for us to receive your application and ensures youâre considered for the role. Plus, it shows youâre keen on joining our awesome team!
How to prepare for a job interview at John Charles Search
â¨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure youâre well-versed in the specific PLC/SCADA platforms mentioned in the job description, like Siemens or Allen-Bradley. Brush up on your hands-on commissioning experience and be ready to discuss how you've tackled challenges in automated environments.
â¨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership abilities, especially in managing teams or projects. Think of situations where youâve mentored others or driven a project to completion, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
â¨Understand the Companyâs Vision
Research the companyâs role in warehouse automation and material handling technologies. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their ongoing projects and strategies.
â¨Practice Problem-Solving Scenarios
Anticipate technical questions or scenarios related to controls engineering and system design. Practise articulating your thought process and solutions clearly, as strong problem-solving skills are crucial for this role.
