At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead automation systems in paint and sealant manufacturing, ensuring reliability and minimising downtime.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at a leading manufacturing company in Sheffield.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a focus on continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Be the technical expert driving innovation and optimising production processes.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering or significant experience in automation and controls required.
- Other info: Internal candidates only; apply by 5th January 2026.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced Automation and Control Engineer to oversee all automation and control systems that regulate our paint and sealant manufacturing operations at Sheffield. This critical role ensures equipment reliability, minimizes downtime, and drives continuous improvement across our production processes.
As the site technical expert, you will manage programming, servicing, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis for PLCs, SCADA systems, HMIs, electrical controls, and related infrastructure. You will also lead vendor management, develop documentation, and implement strategies to optimize system performance and future-proof our operations.
Responsibilities- Site lead overseeing all industrial control systems (ICS), ensuring that all equipment and machinery is in good working order and keeping production downtime to a minimum.
- Oversee programming, servicing, fault-finding, root cause analysis and troubleshooting activities across the range of programmable logic controller (PLC), automated and other systems, software, Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs), electrical controls and installations, switchgear and distribution systems.
- Provide operational support and impart knowledge to other Engineering / Maintenance colleagues and provide training to raise competency levels.
- Manage the service contract with the preferred IC-vendor, monitoring performance and implementing a plan to become more self-sufficient.
- Create and manage control system documentation and reference material for site operations and technical support personnel.
- Work alongside the Reliability Engineering team as the lead for the site IC-obsolescence program, identifying critical pieces of plant and areas for investment.
- Create and implement a plan to modify current programs and configurations to optimise capability and performance.
- Specify IC equipment, obtain cost estimates, generate bills of materials and expedite purchasing and fabrication of electrical controls equipment.
- Support the development and implementation of projects that drive continuous improvement, through enhancements to existing control software and hardware systems.
- Complete job records in the Computerised Maintenance Management System (CMMS) so that data/trends can be compiled.
- Manage the site electrical schematics, including specifications and program backups.
- Monitor machine efficiencies to promote performance at optimum levels.
- Provide out of hours call-out support remotely by means of a company mobile phone.
- Ensure all safety rules and safe working procedures are adhered to.
- Either degree in a relevant Engineering discipline or significant technical / professional experience in the area of automation and controls.
- Significant (suggested minimum 5 years) relevant engineering/maintenance experience.
- Exposure to industrial control systems and methodologies, including PLC and SCADA systems.
- Team player with effective interpersonal skills, able to work well in multi-disciplinary teams to solve problems and deliver improvements.
- Knowledge and experience of continuous improvement techniques.
- Knowledge, effective use and development of Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) systems.
- ATEX/DSEAR knowledge/Experience would be an advantage.
- Proven experience with Rockwell Automation and Siemens platforms.
- Experience in PLC programming (Allen-Bradley and Siemens).
- Experience with SCADA development using Ignition and InTouch.
- Strong understanding of industrial networks including DeviceNet, Ethernet/IP and Profibus.
- Ability to interpret electrical schematics and P&IDs.
- Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Experience in commissioning and site support.
- Certified with Continuous Improvement tools; 6 Sigma, Lean, and Root Cause Analysis.
- Knowledge of industry RAGAGEP for industrial automation (ISA, IEC, PIP).
- Knowledge of Process Safety Management relating to control & automation.
- An understanding of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement techniques.
- Awareness of SEVESO/COMAH.
- Keen and conscientious approach to Health and Safety is essential.
Automation and Control Engineer in Sheffield employer: The Sherwin-Williams Company
Contact Detail:
The Sherwin-Williams Company Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Automation and Control Engineer in Sheffield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who work at companies you're interested in. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to job opportunities that aren't even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its products. Knowing their automation and control systems inside out will impress them and show you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your technical skills! Brush up on PLC programming and SCADA systems, as these are crucial for the Automation and Control Engineer role. Being able to demonstrate your expertise can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Automation and Control Engineer in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with automation and control systems. Use keywords from the job description to show that you’re a perfect fit for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share specific examples of your past work in PLC programming or SCADA systems, and explain how you can contribute to our team at Sheffield.
Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, mention instances where you've tackled challenges in automation or control systems. We love candidates who can think on their feet and drive continuous improvement!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Sherwin-Williams Company
✨Know Your Systems Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of PLCs, SCADA systems, and HMIs. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on, including any troubleshooting or programming challenges you've faced. This will show that you're not just familiar with the systems but have hands-on experience.
✨Showcase Your Continuous Improvement Mindset
Prepare examples of how you've implemented continuous improvement techniques in past roles. Whether it's through Lean, Six Sigma, or other methodologies, be ready to explain how your contributions led to measurable improvements in efficiency or reliability.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that dive deep into your understanding of industrial control systems. Brush up on your knowledge of electrical schematics, P&IDs, and network protocols like DeviceNet and Ethernet/IP. Being able to articulate your thought process during problem-solving scenarios will impress the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration Skills
As a team player, you'll need to show how well you work with others. Prepare to discuss instances where you've collaborated with multi-disciplinary teams to solve problems or improve processes. Highlight your interpersonal skills and how they contribute to a positive working environment.