At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead software development for automation systems in cutting-edge data centres.
- Company: Join Vantage Data Centers, a leader in innovative data centre solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, travel opportunities, and a chance to work on impactful projects.
- Other info: Dynamic growth environment with opportunities for career advancement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in mission-critical environments with advanced technology.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in control systems; experience with PLCs is essential.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
Vantage is looking for an ambitious, detail-oriented, hands-on Principal Automation Systems Engineer to head software development for construction of Vantage facilities. You will review sequence of operation documents and instrumentation diagrams to develop logic control software and visualization applications for new builds on a variety of system platforms. You will also be called on to troubleshoot existing automation systems in a live, mission-critical environment, and complete startup, commissioning and validation procedures on new and existing mission critical data center infrastructure. You will be required to create and review design documentation and review submittals from suppliers to ensure compliance with automation build of design standard.
Essential Job Functions
- Develop and deploy new PLC applications for control system projects, with minimal supervision.
- Complete PLC application modifications in an online, critical environment.
- Troubleshoot and resolve PLC, network and other critical control system issues during an incident.
- Support data center operational and commissioning activities to ensure optimal performance of systems with mission critical features.
- Support commissioning activities and work collaboratively with consultants, suppliers and system integrators to ensure all field devices are properly configured with the correct network addressing details.
- Coordinate integration support schedules, allowing for sufficient time to program, test, and commission mission critical control systems.
- Examine project documents, including Sequences of Operation, Bill of Materials, Process and Instrumentation Diagrams, BMS Panel Drawing Schemes and project schedules when developing automation logic and visualization applications.
- Support in technical review of design, construction and supply of building management services (BMS) panels.
- Contractor management and ensuring deliverables are tracked and delivered to schedule.
- Support in the design of Controls Architecture Documents to include Networking Topology & IP Scheme for new data centers.
- Train Data Center Operations personnel how to troubleshoot the PLC platform for Critical Facility system monitoring and incident investigations.
- Support internal automation reviews to align with Vantage and industry standard specifications with considerations to network optimisation and cyber resilience.
- Support the development and implementation of the controls and automation scope for new projects and existing applications.
Qualifications
- Suitable background in Computer Science, Mechatronics or equivalent work experience is desirable but not required.
- 5 years of experience in the design of mission critical programs with Allen-Bradley Compact and Control Logix PLCs is essential, 7 to 9 years is preferred.
- Substantial experience in design and development of mission-critical control systems for HVAC and BAS/BMS.
- Expert knowledge of automation systems (control loops, field IO, etc.) in a mission critical environment.
- Substantial experience with instrumentation and control engineering design for effective process control.
- Knowledge of industrial PLC systems manufactured by leading edge, large-scale vendors.
- Data Center commissioning experience is required.
- Project and technical resource management experience is preferred but not required.
- Travel required is expected to be 25 to 50% but may increase over time as the business evolves.
About Vantage Data Centers
Vantage Data Centers powers, cools, protects and connects the technology of the world's well-known hyperscalers, cloud providers and large enterprises. Developing and operating across several markets in North America and EMEA, Vantage has evolved data center design in innovative ways to deliver dramatic gains in reliability, efficiency and sustainability in flexible environments that can scale as quickly as the market demands. Vantage's business is growing exponentially through a combination of greenfield market expansion and acquisitions across North America and Europe.
Principal Automation Systems Engineer employer: Vantage Data Centers
Vantage Data Centers is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and supportive work culture, where employees are encouraged to grow and innovate. With a comprehensive benefits package that exceeds local expectations and a commitment to employee development, Vantage empowers its team members to thrive in their roles while contributing to meaningful projects in the rapidly evolving data center industry. Located in EMEA, this role offers the unique opportunity to engage with top-tier professionals and make a significant impact in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Automation Systems Engineer
✨Get Involved in Local Automation Meetups
We can’t stress this enough – getting your face out there in the automation and control systems community can really set you apart. Look for local meetups or workshops where you can chat with industry professionals, learn about what’s trending, and even discover hidden job gems. Who knows, you might meet someone from a company like Vantage Data Centers!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Make sure you have a portfolio of your work ready to roll. Whether it’s academic projects, internships or personal experiments, showcase how you’ve tackled automation challenges. When you apply for the Principal Automation Systems Engineer position at Vantage Data Centers, linking your portfolio gives your application that extra oomph and demonstrates your practical knowledge.
✨Leverage Your Uni Career Services
If you’re fresh out of uni, don’t forget about your career services! Many universities have established connections with companies in the automation field. They may know when Vantage Data Centers is looking for fresh talent or even have internships that lead to full-time positions. So, hit them up!
✨Keep an Eye on Industry Certifications
While hunting for roles, consider getting certified in relevant automation technologies. It shows dedication and gives you a leg up in the job market. Plus, many organisations offer job boards or networking events to certified professionals. This might just lead you to that coveted Principal Automation Systems Engineer role at Vantage Data Centers!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Automation Systems Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for an automation-control-systems role, it’s crucial to highlight your technical skills. Whether it's your proficiency in programming languages like Python or understanding control systems, make sure your CV showcases these prominently. Don't forget to mention any specific software or tools you're experienced with – that’s music to the ears of hiring managers!
Tailor Your Projects to Automation:If you've worked on any relevant projects, especially those involving automation or control systems, make them stand out in your CV. Use a dedicated section to highlight these projects, explaining your role and the impact of your contributions. This could be the difference between getting noticed and getting overlooked!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tell us why you’re passionate about automation-control-systems! Discuss specific experiences that sparked your interest in this field. Maybe it's a university project or a previous job that truly got you hooked. We love seeing that spark! Make sure to reference how you can contribute to Vantage Data Centers and its goals.
Quantify Your Achievements:In the world of automation, results matter. When listing your experiences, quantify your achievements wherever possible. Did you improve system efficiency by a percentage? Did you reduce downtime? Putting numbers to your successes not only demonstrates your impact but also lets us see the tangible outcomes of your efforts. It makes your application pop!
How to prepare for a job interview at Vantage Data Centers
✨Master Your Technical Knowledge
In the automation control systems field, you need to brush up on your technical know-how. Be prepared to talk about specific control systems you’ve worked with, such as PLCs or SCADA systems, and expect technical questions or even hands-on problem-solving scenarios during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Whether it's freelance projects or your academic work, come ready to showcase your portfolio of automation projects. Bring along any diagrams, code samples, or automation solutions you’ve implemented—these can really set you apart and demonstrate your applied skills to Vantage Data Centers.
✨Understand Industry Trends
Stay updated on the latest trends in automation technologies and methodologies, like Industry 4.0 or IIoT. We'll want to discuss how these concepts may affect the role and future projects at Vantage Data Centers, so showing that you're knowledgeable about current and emerging technologies can give you an edge.
✨Commit to Continuous Learning
As this is a full-time role, it's essential to express your eagerness for continuous improvement and learning. Share how you plan to enhance your skills and keep pace with the evolution of automation in the workforce – companies love candidates who are committed to growth and adaptability.
