Senior Controls Support engineer

Reports to: Service Manager

Location: UK Remote (Site Visits)

Contract Type: Permanent

Introduction to role

Vanderlande is recognised as one of the market leaders in efficient logistics automation for airports, parcels, and warehouses. Our solutions are designed to streamline operations and enhance efficiency across these crucial sectors. As part of the Mobile Service Team with our Airport domain, you will play a critical role in delivering technical expertise across electro-mechanical systems and system controls for various Baggage Handling Systems (BHS). This includes proactive maintenance and fault-finding activities to ensure optimal system performance and reliability for our customers.

Role Responsibilities

In addition to core service responsibilities, you will also support project work at Heathrow Airport, contributing technical expertise to ensure successful delivery and integration of new systems and upgrades. You will act as a technical lead, providing tele-support and on-site resolution for complex issues, while fostering strong customer relationships and driving continuous improvement in service delivery for our customers across the UK. Your responsibilities and activities will include:

• Provide leading technical response and remote/tele-support for complex electro‑mechanical and control system issues
• Lead and coordinate operational fault correction activities on Baggage Handling Systems (BHS) in close collaboration with site operations and maintenance teams.
• Monitor and review system performance, analysing trends and failures, identifying root causes, and implementing corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Perform complex electro‑mechanical and PLC fault finding, including diagnosis across control panels, field devices, networks, and mechanical interfaces.
• Manage and maintain PLC software on site, including fault investigation, minor modifications, version control, and compliance with control standards.
• Apply strong problem analysis and root cause techniques to equipment and system failures.
• Demonstrate a clear understanding of how controls applications integrate into subsystems, based on Low Level Control (LLC) design and system architecture.
• Write, review, and modify PLC code as required for system optimisation and commissioning activities.
• Execute commissioning activities, including but not limited to: I/O testing, Mechanical run tests, Control cabinet functionality checks.
• Be proficient with SCADA systems, understanding their integration with PLCs, field devices, and higher‑level systems.
• Plan, create, execute, and support in‑house and on‑site tests, including integration and system tests.
• Maintain accurate technical documentation, ensuring all activities comply with site procedures and legislative Health & Safety regulations.
• Champion a safety‑first culture, promoting safe working practices and ensuring a safe working environment across all activities.
• Build and maintain effective working relationships with subcontractors, internal business support functions, and wider stakeholder groups.
• Continuously develop technical expertise, adopting best practices, new technologies, and lessons learned to improve service delivery and operational efficiency.

Role Qualification and Skills

• City & Guilds / NVQ level 3 (or higher) in an engineering discipline.
• Strong technical knowledge of electro-mechanical and control systems, including fault-finding, diagnostics and maintenance.
• Extensive hands‑on experience with PLCs, including fault‑finding, diagnostics, and ongoing system support.
• Ability to analyse complex technical problems and implement effective solutions.
• Well developed organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced and dynamic environment.
• Highly capable of analysing complex technical problems and implementing effective, robust solutions.
• Strong understanding of automation, control architecture, and system integration.
• Commitment to continuous improvement, technical excellence, and ongoing professional development.
• Able to develop LLC code using relevant platforms, such as Siemens S7.
• Experience in the functional safety systems using platforms such as Siemens S7‑F and PILZ.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Full UK driving licence.

Desirable

• HNC or ONC qualification in a relevant engineering or technical discipline.
• Experience using Maximo or other Computerised Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS).
• Working knowledge of SCADA applications, including platforms such as Siemens WinCC and WebFactory.
• Experience or familiarity with Material Handling Equipment (MHE) and/or Baggage Handling Systems (BHS).
• Valid/able to obtain ECS or CSCS card.
• Able to obtain and maintain a DBS disclosure.

What we offer

• 28 days annual leave (excluding public holidays).
• Bupa Medical Cover.
• YuLife – Wellbeing membership with fast access to GP appointments, promotion of health and wellbeing along with daily quests to gain Yucoins that can be swapped for shopping vouchers.
• A challenging work environment with lots of opportunities of career progression.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Yellow Nest is a salary exchange scheme that reduces childcare costs for parents and employers.
• Pension with Aviva.
• Access to Achievers an award-winning recognition platform that inspires to recognise your coworkers where points are awarded that can be exchanged for a range of goods and discounts.

Diversity & Inclusion

Vanderlande is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Qualified applicants will be considered without regards to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age marital status or disability status. If you feel there is a barrier that potentially prevents you from applying, we are always happy to discuss or explore, any reasonable adjustments can be made to support your application.

Aspire. Grow. Achieve. Together

Are you looking to develop your career and satisfy your ambitions at a company where you can aspire to new heights, enjoy personal growth and thrive on achievement? We are the global market leader for future-proof logistic process automation at airports – from London Heathrow to Singapore Changi – and in the parcel market for leading players such as UPS and FedEx. Furthermore, we are also a leading supplier of solutions for warehousing giants, including Walmart, which seamlessly integrate innovative systems, intelligent software, and life-cycle services.

If you aspire to a position of responsibility and want to make a difference by facilitating the delivery of what matters most to consumers, passengers, and businesses, the next step on your path to global opportunities is to join Vanderlande. As part of our network and unique culture of freedom and flexibility, you will be able to express yourself and become connected to our dedicated people, building strong relationships and rising to the challenge of industry-leading projects.

To achieve our collective goals, you will seize the initiative and have a hands-on role working in a positive environment to deliver tangible, state-of-the-art products and improve the competitiveness of our highly visible customers. As an integral part of our team, you will have the enthusiasm and be driven to reach our destination before your next journey with Vanderlande begins… So, if you would like to join a profitable and growing company that will enable you to reach your goals and focus on your future.