At a Glance
- Tasks: Support production with controls and instrumentation, driving innovation and improvements.
- Company: Join Safran Nacelles, a leader in sustainable aerospace solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 37-hour week, 25 days holiday, and private medical insurance.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive culture with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make an impact in aerospace while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: 5 years in manufacturing support, PLC programming, and strong problem-solving skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
About Safran Nacelles
Safran Nacelles is a global leader in aircraft engine nacelles, delivering high-performance solutions across all aircraft types – from regional and business jets to commercial airlines. With almost 700 people, the Burnley site is one of the area's largest private‑sector employers. At Safran, inclusion, innovation, and the ambition to craft sustainable aerospace excellence are at the heart of everything we do.
Your Role
As a key part of our Reliability Engineering team, you will have daily involvement in both proactive and reactive maintenance activities, with a particular focus on controls and instrumentation. By leveraging your PLC expertise, you will support site equipment improvements, obsolescence management, and new technologies initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver controls and instrumentation support for production, working across three units.
- Propose and support NPI (New Product Introduction) control projects.
- Manage contractors and ensure Site Health, Safety, and Environmental compliance.
- Lead annual machine backup and archive control.
- Engage with the digitalisation team and drive machine connectivity innovation.
- Provide mentorship, facilitate internal training, and contribute to our centre of excellence for control support.
- Anticipate and fulfil internal customer needs, representing Facilities at key meetings.
- Apply lean methodologies (6S, DMAIC, 5S) to drive continuous improvement.
- Support compliance audits and operational excellence initiatives.
What You’ll Bring – Essential
- Safety mindset with comprehensive knowledge of Machinery Directive 2006/42 and related standards.
- Electrical apprenticeship and HNC in Control Engineering.
- At least 5 years’ experience in a manufacturing/maintenance support role.
- Experience in control system design, PLC programming, and project archiving (Siemens and machine tools).
- Excellent analytical/problem‑solving skills.
- Strong customer focus and communication skills (written and verbal).
- High proficiency in MS Office.
- Ability to innovate, lead, and mentor.
- Team player with self‑driven motivation and excellent time management.
What You’ll Bring – Desirable
- Beng in Control Systems or related discipline.
- Experience in composites/sheet metal materials.
- Lean methodology qualifications (Six Sigma green belt).
- Formal Health & Safety training.
- Experience with contractor control and chairing meetings.
Why Join Us?
- Work‑life balance: 37‑hour week over 4.5 days, early finish Fridays.
- Leave: 25 days holiday + bank holidays, options to purchase extra.
- Financial benefits: 10% employer pension (option to increase), 4× life insurance, share purchase plans with free shares.
- Wellbeing: Private medical insurance (BUPA), mental health support, employee assistance programme.
- Development: Excellent training and education, career mobility, personal development plans.
- Other benefits: Subsidised meals, discounted fitness/spa membership, cycle‑to‑work, flexible benefits menu.
- Inclusive culture: Active support networks (Women at Safran, Diversity & Wellbeing groups, STEM ambassadors).
At Safran, we know that applying for a job can be daunting if you don’t meet every requirement – but if you have relevant skills and ambition, we encourage you to apply. Please let us know if you need reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process.
Safran – Here, we craft excellence together. Join us and be part of the team shaping the future of flight.
Controls & Instrumentation Engineer employer: Safran companies
At Safran Nacelles, we pride ourselves on being a leading employer in the aerospace sector, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment that fosters innovation and personal growth. Our Burnley site not only provides competitive benefits such as a 37-hour work week, generous holiday allowance, and comprehensive wellbeing support, but also encourages career development through excellent training opportunities and active employee networks. Join us to be part of a team dedicated to crafting sustainable aerospace excellence while enjoying a balanced and fulfilling work life.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Controls & Instrumentation Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. 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 researching the company and role thoroughly. Understand Safran Nacelles' values and how your skills in controls and instrumentation can contribute to their mission. Tailor your responses to show you're a perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or use online resources to refine your answers. Focus on showcasing your problem-solving skills and experience in PLC programming – that's what will set you apart.
✨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 the Safran team and contributing to their innovative projects.
We think you need these skills to ace Controls & Instrumentation Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Controls & Instrumentation Engineer role. Highlight your PLC expertise and any relevant projects you've worked on, as this will show us you're a great fit for our team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you’re passionate about working at Safran Nacelles. Share specific examples of how your background aligns with our focus on innovation and sustainability in aerospace.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, don’t shy away from discussing challenges you've faced in previous roles. We love to see how you’ve used your analytical skills to overcome obstacles, especially in controls and instrumentation.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Safran companies
✨Know Your PLCs Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your PLC programming skills before the interview. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've implemented control systems, as this will show your hands-on experience and expertise in the field.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled complex issues in previous roles. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, highlighting your analytical skills and ability to innovate under pressure.
✨Understand Lean Methodologies
Familiarise yourself with lean methodologies like 6S and DMAIC. Be prepared to discuss how you've applied these principles in past projects to drive continuous improvement, as this aligns perfectly with what Safran is looking for.
✨Engage with Their Culture
Research Safran's commitment to inclusion and innovation. During the interview, express your enthusiasm for their values and how you can contribute to their culture, especially in mentoring and supporting internal training initiatives.
