At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop control systems for automated machinery in the food processing sector.
- Company: Join a leading company in innovative automation solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, overtime pay, company vehicle, and 25 days annual leave.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for travel and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of exciting projects that shape the future of automation technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in PLC programming and strong problem-solving skills required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 55000 £ per year.
Location: Lincolnshire (ideally based near Gainsborough)
Reports To: Engineering Manager / Controls Manager
Monday to Friday
Role Overview
We are looking for an experienced Automation Controls Engineer for our client in Gainsborough to support the design, development, commissioning, and ongoing support of automated machinery within the food processing and packaging sector. The role will suit a proactive individual with strong PLC and control systems experience, ideally with exposure to VFFS or similar machinery. This is a hands-on role involving mainly office-based project work and a small amount of on-site trouble-shooting/commissioning, requiring occasional travel and overnight stays.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, develop, and implement control systems for automated machinery and production lines.
- Program, test, and commission PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems.
- Support installation and commissioning activities both in-house and at customer sites.
- Fault-find and troubleshoot control systems and automation issues on existing equipment.
- Modify and upgrade existing machine control systems to improve performance and reliability.
- Work closely with mechanical and electrical engineers to deliver integrated automation solutions.
- Produce and maintain technical documentation, including:
- Functional design specifications
- Electrical schematics (in collaboration with electrical design teams)
- Software documentation and version control
- Provide technical support to Field Service Engineers and customers.
- Ensure compliance with relevant safety standards, including machinery safety and CE/UKCA requirements.
Skills & Experience Required
- Strong experience in PLC programming (e.g., Allen Bradley, Siemens, or similar).
- Experience with HMI/SCADA platforms (e.g., WinCC, FactoryTalk, Proface, etc.).
- Solid understanding of industrial automation systems, including:
- Drives and motion control
- Sensors and instrumentation
- Pneumatics and process control
- Experience working with packaging machinery (VFFS highly advantageous) or food process machinery.
- Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings and control system architecture.
- Strong problem-solving skills with a structured approach to fault finding.
- Understanding of industrial communication networks (e.g., Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
- Full UK driving licence.
Personal Attributes
- Self-motivated with the ability to manage workload and deadlines.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to delivering high-quality solutions.
- Good communication skills, both internally and with customers.
- Flexible and willing to travel for commissioning and support work.
- Calm and methodical under pressure during fault-finding scenarios.
Working Conditions & Travel
- Mix of office-based engineering work and occasional on-site commissioning.
- Travel across the UK (and possibly future overseas travel).
- Overnight stays required during commissioning phases.
- Flexibility required around project deadlines and site work.
Desirable (but not essential)
- Experience with VFFS or high-speed packaging machinery.
- Experience with vision systems.
- Functional safety knowledge (e.g., safety PLCs, risk assessments).
- Electrical design experience (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN).
- Relevant qualifications (HNC/HND/Degree in Electrical, Electronic, or Automation Engineering).
What We Offer
- Competitive salary (depending on experience) expected to be at least £55,000
- Overtime / site allowances
- Company vehicle or travel expenses
- Pension scheme
- 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
- Ongoing training and professional development
- Opportunity to work on innovative automation projects within a growing sector
Automation Controls Engineer in Gainsborough employer: Reflect Recruitment Group
Reflect Recruitment Group is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Grantham where safety and compliance are at the forefront of our engineering initiatives. We pride ourselves on fostering a proactive safety culture, providing our employees with ample growth opportunities and a comprehensive benefits package that includes competitive salaries, generous holidays, and a pension scheme. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying the advantages of working in a supportive and thriving team.
