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- Tasks: Develop and modify PLC & HMI software for custom machinery.
- Company: Join a well-established manufacturer in East Lancashire with a strong team culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid work, 25 days holiday, and a 7% matched pension contribution.
- Why this job: Work on exciting bespoke projects with industry-leading technology and great work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Some knowledge of PLC programming is required; eagerness to learn is essential.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for career development and training.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 30000 £ per year.
Samuel Frank is recruiting for a Graduate Controls Engineer with PLC programming experience to join a well-established, growing manufacturer in East Lancashire. The successful Graduate Controls Engineer will have some knowledge of programming PLCs and be keen to learn and develop into a seasoned Controls Engineer. This is a fantastic opportunity for the successful Graduate Controls Engineer to work on one-off, custom-built machines while benefiting from a collaborative team environment and career development opportunities.
Graduate Controls Engineers - Why Apply?
- Exciting Projects – Work on a wide variety of bespoke, one-off machinery
- Industry-Leading Tech – Programming Allen Bradley PLCs – training on Allen Bradley PLCs will be provided
- Great Work-Life Balance – 40-hour week, Friday lunchtime finish & overtime available, plus up to 2 days a week working from home when possible (i.e. when you’re not testing or commissioning!)
- Career Stability – Join a well-established, supportive company with a strong team culture.
The Role – Graduate Controls Engineer
- Develop and modify PLC & HMI software to optimise machine performance.
- Carry out workshop testing & onsite commissioning (UK-based, 95% domestic travel).
- Work 70% office/home based, 30% customer site visits (1-2 weeks per trip).
- Collaborate with Control Engineers, Electrical Design Engineers & a supportive Team Manager.
- Create technical documentation using MS Office.
Location & Benefits
- Based in East Lancashire, commutable from Blackburn, Burnley, Accrington, Colne & Keighley.
- Salary: £25k + overtime.
- 25 days holiday + bank holidays.
- Above auto-enrolment pension contribution – 7% matched contribution.
Graduate Controls Engineer employer: Samuel Frank
Contact Detail:
Samuel Frank Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Controls Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Allen Bradley PLCs, as this is a key technology used in the role. Consider taking online courses or watching tutorials to boost your knowledge and show your enthusiasm for learning.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the controls engineering field. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who can provide insights or even refer you to opportunities at companies like us.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your hands-on experience with PLC programming during interviews. If you've worked on any projects, be ready to explain your role and the outcomes, as practical examples can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your teamwork skills, as collaboration is essential in this role. Think of examples where you've successfully worked in a team setting, and be prepared to share these experiences during your interview.
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Controls Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights any relevant experience with PLC programming and any projects you've worked on that relate to bespoke machinery. Use keywords from the job description to catch the employer's attention.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention specific reasons why you want to work as a Graduate Controls Engineer and how your skills align with their needs, particularly your willingness to learn and develop.
Showcase Relevant Skills: If you have experience with Allen Bradley PLCs or similar technologies, be sure to mention this. Highlight any coursework or projects that demonstrate your technical abilities and problem-solving skills in controls engineering.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in engineering roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Samuel Frank
✨Show Your PLC Knowledge
Make sure to highlight any experience you have with PLC programming, especially with Allen Bradley systems. Even if your experience is limited, demonstrating a keen interest and willingness to learn can set you apart.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
Since the role involves working closely with Control Engineers and Electrical Design Engineers, be prepared to discuss examples of how you've successfully collaborated in team settings. This will show that you're a good fit for their supportive team culture.
✨Ask About Career Development
This position offers great career development opportunities. Prepare thoughtful questions about how the company supports growth and learning, which shows your enthusiasm for long-term commitment and professional advancement.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Be ready to discuss specific challenges you've faced in previous projects and how you overcame them. This will illustrate your analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities, which are crucial for optimising machine performance.
