Electrical - Senior Electrical Engineer in Reading

We are currently recruiting for a Senior Electrical Engineer / Electrical Maintenance Team Leader to work within a large factory that has undergone significant investment, supporting maintenance of their fast moving production machinery and being the technical matter expert for Electrical works in the factory. Some members of the Engineering Team have been in their roles for 20+ years, and need someone who is a good team player and enjoys turning their hands to both mechanical and electrical duties but holding an electrical bias. The role would suit someone who is electrical trained or biased and looking for responsibility, to work within a great loyal team and company with future opportunities to advance.

The Electrical Specialist is responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of all electrical systems, automation equipment, and power distribution within the site. This includes pneumatic, hydraulic production machinery and services. The role combines hands-on troubleshooting with preventive maintenance, continuous improvement, and support for production teams.

• Electrical Maintenance & Troubleshooting: Diagnose and repair faults in electrical systems, control panels, motors, drives, PLCs, sensors, and automation equipment to minimise downtime.
• Plan and execute planned and predictive maintenance on electrical infrastructure, including power distribution, switchgear, MCCs, and instrumentation.
• Equipment Installation & Commissioning: Install, configure, and commission new machinery, electrical components, and control systems in line with engineering standards.
• PLC & Automation Support: Assist with programming, modifying, and maintaining PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, and industrial networks.
• Compliance & Safety: Ensure all electrical work complies with relevant standards.
• Documentation & Reporting: Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, electrical drawings, schematics, and equipment logs.
• Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities to improve equipment reliability, energy efficiency, and manufacturing performance, undertaking root cause analysis to take corrective actions.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with mechanical engineers, production teams, and engineering staff to resolve issues and support operational goals. Act as the go-to person for all electrical issues and matters for the site.
• Training of team: Identify training needs of Shift engineers and execute training plans, sharing specialist knowledge and expertise.
• Liaison with suppliers and contractors: Oversee and manage onsite contractors and the procurement and ordering of parts and equipment in a cost-efficient manner.

Strong knowledge of industrial electrical systems, including 3-phase power, control circuits and panels, relays and sensors. Proficiency in reading electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation. Experience with PLC systems (Siemens S7, Allen-Bradley, Mitsubishi, etc.) and industrial automation. Skilled in fault-finding with electrical, pneumatic and hydraulic schematics and using diagnostic tools. Understanding of variable frequency drives (VFDs), servo systems, DC drives, and industrial sensors, such as Lenza, Allen Bradley. Familiarity with lean manufacturing, TPM, or reliability-centred maintenance principles. Strong awareness of electrical safety, lockout/tagout, test and risk assessment. Self-motivated, ability to use own initiative and flexible in approach. Physical work including climbing, lifting, and working in confined spaces.

NVQ Level 3 or equivalent in Electrical Engineering, Industrial Maintenance, or related field. Over 7 years experience in an automated processing manufacturing plant, or industrial environment in a similar role. Experience with PLC programming or automation systems is an advantage. Knowledge of CMMS systems for maintenance planning is desirable. Computer literate with experience of Profibus, Asi and Ethernet systems.