control systems software engineer in Birmingham

We are seeking an experienced and adaptable Control Systems Software Engineer to join our automation team in Birmingham. The successful candidate will design, develop, test and commission control system software for PLCs, HMIs and SCADA platforms, working on multi-discipline projects from concept through to handover and post-commission support. You will collaborate closely with project engineers, electrical designers, and clients to deliver reliable, maintainable and safe automation solutions.

Responsibilities

• Develop and configure PLC control software using relevant platforms (Siemens, Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Schneider, etc.) in accordance with project specifications and industry best practice.
• Design and implement HMI/SCADA applications, operator screens and supervisory logic to meet client operational requirements.
• Produce and maintain technical documentation including functional design specifications (FDS), software design documents, I/O lists, test procedures and commissioning checklists.
• Create and execute FAT/SAT test plans, perform system integration testing, and support factory and site commissioning activities.
• Troubleshoot and resolve control system faults during installation, commissioning and early life support; provide clear root‑cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Work with project teams to ensure software meets safety, quality and regulatory requirements, including adherence to relevant coding and testing standards.
• Support cyber security and industrial networking requirements for control systems, including VLAN, firewalls and secure remote access where required.
• Assist with client training and handover documentation to ensure effective transition to operations and maintenance teams.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, standard libraries and re‑usable software assets to increase delivery efficiency and quality.
• Promote and comply with all Health & Safety, Environmental and Quality requirements on site and in the workshop.

Qualifications

• HNC/HND or degree in Control Systems, Automation, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or similar discipline, or equivalent practical experience.
• Minimum of 3 years' experience developing PLC and SCADA control software from initial design through to implementation in industrial environments.
• Proven experience with at least one major PLC platform (Siemens TIA Portal/Step 7, Rockwell Studio 5000, Schneider Unity etc.) and SCADA/HMI tools (Wonderware, Ignition, WinCC, FactoryTalk or similar).
• Strong understanding of industrial networking, fieldbus protocols (Profinet, EtherNet/IP, Modbus) and PLC‑to‑SCADA integration.
• Competent with testing methodologies, FAT/SAT procedures and commissioning activities.
• Good written and verbal communication skills and experience producing technical documentation.
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel to client sites.

Desirable

• Experience with MES integration, recipe management and batch control systems.
• Knowledge of industrial cyber security standards and secure architecture for control systems.
• Familiarity with safety PLCs and functional safety standards (e.g. IEC 61508 / 61511) and experience implementing safety logic.
• Experience with SCADA historian systems and basic data analytics.
• Relevant vendor certifications (Siemens, Rockwell, Inductive Automation, Schneider).
• Practical, hands‑on approach with strong problem solving and fault‑finding skills.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to producing robust, well‑documented solutions.
• Ability to work independently and as part of multidisciplinary project teams.
• Customer‑focused with professional communication skills and the ability to build strong client relationships.
• Proactive attitude towards continuous learning and keeping up to date with control technology trends.

Why Join Actemium Automation Birmingham

• Competitive salary, BOE + up to 7% matched pension, Health Shield (Cashback plan), Private Healthcare, Cycle to Work scheme, Death in Service, Share Scheme, Annual Discretionary Bonus.
• Work on varied, challenging automation projects for leading UK industrial clients.
• Supportive, collaborative environment with clear development pathways and mentoring.
• Competitive benefits package and commitment to training and professional development.
• Be part of a global engineering network with local autonomy and innovation.
• Commitment to diversity, inclusion and wellbeing across the workplace.