Principal Instrument Controls and Automation (ICA) Engineer

Principal Instrument Controls and Automation (ICA) Engineer

Full-Time 60000 - 80000 € / year (est.) No home office possible
Thames Water

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead ICA design and ensure compliance with regulations while mentoring junior staff.
  • Company: Thames Water, a leader in sustainable water management.
  • Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Join a supportive environment focused on innovation and career development.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on water quality and sustainability in a dynamic team.
  • Qualifications: Recognised Control and Instrumentation Engineer with strong technical skills.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.

In this important role you will have the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the Control and Instrument (ICA) team in Thames Water Above Ground Engineering to achieve Thames Water’s Asset Management Period AMP8 ambitions and beyond.

What you’ll be doing as a Principal Instrument Controls and Automation (ICA) Engineer:

  • Undertake ICA design work, including scope narratives, system architecture drawings, process narratives, and instrument and I/O lists.
  • Ensure engineering works comply with regulatory requirements and internal asset standards.
  • Provide technical support to Operations and Projects in resolving complex ICA issues.
  • Lead technical sign‑off and assurance throughout project delivery, including handover stages.
  • Mentor and support the development of junior staff.
  • Provide technical input into Project Definition Briefs.
  • Manage and review engineering design partner deliverables.
  • Provide ICA support to the process team and others in responding to waiver requests against Thames Water standards.
  • Contribute ICA expertise to incident investigations and follow‑up remediation activities.
  • Lead ICA‑related Hazard Reviews (HazRev) to assess process safety at major sites and identify remediation measures to improve water quality.

Base location: Hybrid - Clearwater Court - RG1 8DB, weekly attendance in the office required.

Working pattern or hours: 36 hours per week, Mon‑Fri.

What you should bring to the role: Be a recognised Control

Principal Instrument Controls and Automation (ICA) Engineer employer: Thames Water

Thames Water is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and collaboration thrive. As a Principal Instrument Controls and Automation Engineer, you will not only contribute to vital projects that enhance water quality but also enjoy opportunities for professional growth through mentorship and technical leadership. With a hybrid working model based in the vibrant Clearwater Court, you will benefit from a supportive culture that values employee development and work-life balance.

Thames Water

Contact Detail:

Thames Water Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Principal Instrument Controls and Automation (ICA) Engineer

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to industry professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Principal Instrument Controls and Automation role.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and soft skills. We recommend practising common ICA-related questions and scenarios. Show them you’re not just a great engineer, but also a fantastic team player!

Tip Number 3

Don’t forget to showcase your mentoring experience! As a Principal Engineer, you’ll be expected to guide junior staff. We suggest sharing specific examples of how you’ve supported others in your previous roles during interviews.

Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!

We think you need these skills to ace Principal Instrument Controls and Automation (ICA) Engineer

ICA Design Work
System Architecture Drawings
Process Narratives
Instrument and I/O Lists
Regulatory Compliance
Technical Support
Project Delivery Assurance

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Instrument Controls and Automation (ICA) Engineer role. Highlight relevant experience in ICA design work, regulatory compliance, and technical support. We want to see how your skills align with our ambitions at Thames Water!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how you can contribute to our team. Mention specific projects or experiences that relate to the job description, and don’t forget to show your enthusiasm for working with us.

Showcase Your Technical Skills:In your application, be sure to showcase your technical skills and experience with ICA systems. Include examples of past projects where you've led technical sign-off or provided support during complex issues. We love seeing how you’ve made an impact in previous roles!

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of it. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company culture there!

How to prepare for a job interview at Thames Water

Know Your ICA Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Instrument Controls and Automation. Be ready to discuss specific design work you've done, like scope narratives and system architecture drawings. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.

Understand Regulatory Requirements

Familiarise yourself with the regulatory requirements and internal asset standards relevant to Thames Water. Being able to articulate how you’ve ensured compliance in past projects will demonstrate your attention to detail and commitment to quality.

Showcase Your Mentoring Skills

Since mentoring junior staff is part of the role, think of examples where you’ve supported others in their development. Share specific instances where your guidance made a difference, as this will highlight your leadership abilities.

Prepare for Technical Challenges

Be ready to tackle complex ICA issues during the interview. Think about past challenges you’ve faced and how you resolved them. This will not only showcase your problem-solving skills but also your ability to provide technical support effectively.