Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop PLC-controlled automation systems for advanced inspection solutions.
- Company: Join a leading developer of high-precision inspection and metrology systems in Colchester.
- Benefits: Enjoy private healthcare, a generous pension plan, 25 days leave, and flexible working.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team tackling complex engineering challenges with real-world impact.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering or equivalent experience; 5+ years in automation and control required.
- Other info: Occasional travel for development and installation support; right to work in the UK is essential.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 57600 £ per year.
A leading developer of high-precision inspection and metrology systems is seeking a Senior Automation & PLC Engineer to join their engineering team in Colchester. This is a technically challenging role suited to an experienced engineer with strong expertise in Codesys development and the integration of complex electromechanical systems.
The Role: As Senior Automation & PLC Engineer, you will play a critical role in the design, development, and integration of PLC-controlled automation systems used in advanced X-Ray inspection and material handling solutions. These systems are highly complex, involving tight integration of motion control, sensors, and PC-based software — requiring a deep understanding of automation principles and robust, scalable PLC application development in Codesys 3.5.
- Develop advanced PLC application code using Codesys 3.5, focused on control and automation of high-precision inspection systems
- Maintain, adapt, and expand existing PLC software for enhanced performance and functionality
- Integrate motion systems, sensors, actuators, relays, and safety components
- Debug and test complex electromechanical systems under PLC/software control
- Work collaboratively with multi-disciplinary engineering teams (electrical, mechanical, software) to ensure seamless system integration
- Document and manage electrical bills of materials and specifications
- Provide support for production and continuous product improvement
- Occasional UK and international travel to support development and installation
Skills & Experience Required:
- Degree in a relevant engineering discipline or equivalent industry experience
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in automation and control of industrial electromechanical systems
- Deep understanding of Codesys 3.5 for PLC development, including structured programming and modular design principles
- Strong experience in EtherCAT or similar fieldbus integration
- Practical knowledge of motors, actuators, sensors, and pneumatic systems
- Experience working on complex, multi-component engineering projects
- Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to debugging and system testing
- Effective communicator and collaborative team member
Benefits:
- Private Healthcare Scheme (after 3-month probation)
- Group Personal Pension Plan – 4% employee / 6% employer contributions (post-probation)
- 25 days annual leave + public holidays
- Flexible working culture and opportunities for personal development
Please note: Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. Sponsorship is not available for this position.
To apply or learn more, please get in touch with Daniel Cordy at TEC Partners.
Senior Automation & PLC Engineer employer: TEC Partners - Technical Recruitment Specialists
Contact Detail:
TEC Partners - Technical Recruitment Specialists Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Automation & PLC Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest developments in Codesys 3.5 and ensure you can discuss your experience with it confidently. Highlight any specific projects where you've successfully implemented PLC-controlled automation systems.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your problem-solving skills by preparing examples of complex electromechanical systems you've worked on. Be ready to explain how you approached debugging and testing these systems, as this will demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Emphasise your collaborative experience with multi-disciplinary teams. Prepare anecdotes that illustrate how you effectively communicated and worked alongside electrical, mechanical, and software engineers to achieve project goals.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s products and recent projects related to high-precision inspection systems. Being knowledgeable about their work will not only impress during discussions but also help you tailor your responses to align with their objectives.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Automation & PLC Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with Codesys development and automation systems. Emphasise any relevant projects or roles that showcase your expertise in PLC-controlled automation.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description. Explain how your skills and experiences align with the requirements, particularly your problem-solving abilities and collaborative work style.
Showcase Relevant Projects: Include specific examples of past projects where you developed or integrated complex electromechanical systems. Detail your role, the technologies used, and the outcomes achieved to demonstrate your capability.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for an engineering role.
How to prepare for a job interview at TEC Partners - Technical Recruitment Specialists
✨Showcase Your Codesys Expertise
Make sure to highlight your experience with Codesys 3.5 during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've developed PLC application code, focusing on how you approached challenges and implemented solutions.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of complex electromechanical systems you've worked on, particularly those that required debugging and testing. Discuss your thought process and the steps you took to resolve issues, showcasing your proactive approach.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
Since this role involves working with multi-disciplinary teams, be ready to share experiences where you collaborated with electrical, mechanical, or software engineers. Highlight how effective communication contributed to successful project outcomes.
✨Understand the Company’s Products
Research the company’s high-precision inspection and metrology systems before the interview. Familiarise yourself with their technology and be prepared to discuss how your skills can contribute to their specific automation and control needs.
