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- Tasks: Lead and innovate in control systems design, implementation, and support across exciting projects.
- Company: Join a leading engineering firm with a focus on cutting-edge technology.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, professional development, and the chance to work on impactful projects.
- Why this job: Shape the future of control systems while mentoring the next generation of engineers.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering and 8+ years in control systems engineering required.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and influence in a collaborative environment.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Lead Control Systems Engineer to be based full time onsite at Warrington or Cumbria. This is a contract role inside IR35 at the market rates. Candidates can start with BPSS security clearance whilst higher level clearance is being undertaken. You should be British Citizens and passport holders and not have worked outside the UK during the past 5 years.
ROLE SUMMARY: We are looking for an experienced Lead Control Systems Engineer to take technical leadership of control systems design, implementation, testing, commissioning, and ongoing support across multidisciplinary projects. You will be the technical authority for control systems engineering, ensuring robust, compliant, and high-quality solutions, and driving engineering excellence across the project lifecycle. This is a hands-on leadership role with strategic influence - ideal for engineers who want to shape architecture, mentor others, and make high-impact decisions.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Technical Leadership & Design Authority
- Lead the development of control systems architecture, high-level and detailed design, and technical standards.
- Act as the technical authority for control systems, owning approvals and design decisions.
- Drive the selection and integration of PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, communication protocols, safety systems and related automation technologies.
- Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards, safety, and regulatory requirements.
- PROJECT DELIVERY:
- Lead control systems engineering activities throughout the full project lifecycle - from concept and requirements capture to testing, commissioning and handover.
- Provide robust control logic design, software development oversight, and verification/validation.
- Collaborate closely with project management to ensure quality, schedule, risk, and cost targets are met.
- Coordinate with other engineering disciplines to resolve technical interfaces and issues.
- TEAM LEADERSHIP & DEVELOPMENT:
- Lead, mentor, and develop a team of control systems engineers, coach on best practices.
- Assign tasks, oversee workload distribution, and review deliverable documentation.
- Lead and actively participate in the configuration, programming, and testing of PLC, HMI, and SCADA control systems.
- Promote continuous improvement of tools, processes, and standards.
- STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT:
- Act as the primary technical liaison with clients, partners, and internal stakeholders for control systems.
- Represent control systems discipline in design reviews, technical proposals, and client meetings.
- DOCUMENTATION & ASSURANCE:
- Drive quality and consistency in deliverables including functional design specifications, software and hardware design documentation, test procedures, commissioning reports, and O&M documentation.
- Oversee and approve verification and validation testing including internal testing (FAT), customer witness testing (CAT) and site acceptance / commissioning activities.
ESSENTIAL:
- Degree in Engineering (Electrical, Control Systems, Automation) or equivalent experience.
- Significant experience (typically 8+ years) in control systems engineering in a technical lead or Senior Engineer role.
- Expertise with PLC/HMI/SCADA design, programming, and implementation.
- Demonstrable experience in configuring and utilising simulation tools to support system testing, validation and verification activities.
- Proficient in producing high-quality technical documentation with clarity, accuracy, and consistency.
- Proven track record leading medium to large control system projects from design through commissioning.
- Excellent stakeholder communication and collaboration skills.
- Demonstrable experience mentoring and leading engineering teams.
- Strong problem-solving, documentation, and risk management skills.
- Knowledge of safety and compliance standards (e.g. IEC, ISO, industry-specific).
DESIRABLE:
- Experience with multiple control platforms (e.g. Rockwell, Siemens, Schneider).
- Experience in regulated or complex technical environments (e.g., Energy, Nuclear etc).
- Knowledge of Sellafield Engineering Standards.
- Knowledge of functional safety and cybersecurity standards.
- Professional registration (CEng, IEng) or equivalent.
Lead Control Systems Engineer in Manchester employer: Morson Edge
Contact Detail:
Morson Edge Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Control Systems Engineer in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at local meetups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and showcasing your technical expertise. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online platforms to get comfortable with articulating your experience and skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply and wait! Follow up on your applications after a week or so. A quick email can show your enthusiasm and keep you on their radar. Plus, it’s a great way to ask if they need any more info from you.
✨Tip Number 4
Check out our website for the latest job openings and apply directly. We’re always looking for talented individuals like you, and applying through us can give you a better chance of standing out!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Control Systems Engineer in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Lead Control Systems Engineer role. Highlight your relevant experience in control systems engineering, especially any leadership roles you've had. 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 the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your past projects and how they relate to the responsibilities listed in the job description. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t forget to highlight your technical expertise with PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems. We’re looking for someone who can take charge of design and implementation, so make sure we see your hands-on experience in your application.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to keep track of your application status. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!
How to prepare for a job interview at Morson Edge
✨Know Your Control Systems Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've led the design and implementation of these technologies. Highlight your experience with different control platforms and how you've ensured compliance with industry standards.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Lead Control Systems Engineer, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to mentor and lead a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed engineering teams, assigned tasks, and promoted best practices. Think about times when you've resolved technical issues collaboratively with other disciplines.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect in-depth technical questions related to control systems engineering. Review key concepts and be ready to explain your approach to design authority and project delivery. You might be asked to solve a problem on the spot, so practice articulating your thought process clearly.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since stakeholder engagement is crucial, prepare to discuss how you've acted as a liaison between clients and your engineering team. Share experiences where you've represented your discipline in design reviews or client meetings, and emphasise your communication skills and ability to build relationships.
