At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and improve automation systems in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join a leading manufacturer with a commitment to innovation and safety.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, health benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic team culture focused on trust, openness, and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on cutting-edge technology and automation processes.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in controls engineering and strong problem-solving skills required.
The predicted salary is between 37800 - 46200 £ per year.
- Manufacturing Controls Engineer
- Key Areas of Responsibility, Duties and Deliverables Expected
Responsibilities
- Controls & Automation Support
- Provide technical support for PLC, HMI, servo, motion control, and automation systems.
- Diagnose and resolve controls-related faults.
- Support maintenance teams with electrical and automation issues.
- Maintain software backups and controls documentation.
- Analyse faults and implement corrective actions.
- Continuous Improvement
- Make approved software modifications.
- Support improvements to OEE, quality, reliability, throughput, and waste reduction.
- Identify opportunities to improve automation and equipment performance.
- Commissioning & New Equipment Introduction
- Support installation, commissioning, and validation of new equipment.
- Assist with FAT, SAT, machine optimisation, and start-up activities.
- Ensure systems and documentation are handed over correctly.
- Manufacturing Equipment Support
Provide controls engineering support for equipment including
- Injection moulding machines.
- Conveyor systems.
- Robotic handling equipment.
- Rotary die-cutting equipment.
- Inspection systems.
- Automated material handling and palletising systems.
- Machine safety systems.
- Reliability & Preventative Maintenance
- Support preventative maintenance activities.
- Implement long-term solutions to recurring equipment issues.
- Develop fault-finding guidance and training materials.
- Support risk assessments and machine safety compliance.
- Maintain CMMS records and technical reports.
- Documentation & Standards
- Maintain electrical drawings, PLC documentation, network architecture diagrams and software revision records.
- Follow site change management procedures for all software and controls modifications.
- Support risk assessments, machine safety reviews and engineering governance processes.
- Generate technical reports and present progress on improvement and commissioning activities.
- Maintain and develop the department's CMMS in line with activities.
- General Responsibilities & Duties
- Adhere to company quality awareness.
- Meeting Health and Safety standards, supporting others to do the same.
- Assist other areas of the business when required to carry out the same or similar tasks.
- Any other reasonable duties required.
- Personal Attributes
- Strong problem-solving and fault-finding skills.
- Proactive and self-motivated.
- Calm under pressure.
- Good communicator and team player.
- Hands-on with attention to detail.
- Committed to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
- Required Education, Skills, Training and Experience
Skills
- Strong PLC fault-finding capability and ability to interpret existing PLC programs.
• Knowledge of industrial communication networks such as
- Ethernet/IP
- Profinet
- Profibus
- Modbus
- Experience with HMI and SCADA systems.
- Proven ability to perform structured root cause analysis and problem solving.
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and control system drawings.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to work effectively within a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Experience with robotic systems and automated material handling equipment.
- Familiarity with servo motion control systems.
- Understanding of OEE, TPM and Lean Manufacturing principles.
- Experience of FAT, SAT and equipment commissioning activities.
- Knowledge of machine safety standards, PUWER and CE/UKCA requirements.
Experience
Essential
- Minimum 5 years' experience in a manufacturing automation or controls engineering role.
- Experience of modifying and maintaining automated manufacturing equipment.
Desirable
- Experience within automotive, EV battery, plastics processing or high-volume manufacturing environments.
- Knowledge of injection moulding processes.
- Experience supporting rotary die-cutting or web-handling processes.
Qualifications
- HNC/HND, Degree or equivalent qualification in Electrical Engineering, Automation, Controls Engineering or related discipline.
- Core Values
We pride ourselves on our attitude & culture. It is essential that our Core Values are met irrespective of the job role.
TRUST
Belief and confidence in the reliability of what we do and how we behave.
OPENNESS
Acting with sincerity and transparency.
ACCOUNTABILITY
Taking ownership of our actions and behaviours and delivering our objectives.
RESPECT
Positive behaviours and actions towards others for their abilities, qualities and achievements.
ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT
Applying an enterprising mindset to create new opportunities for change, growth for personal and/or business success.
AGILITY
Operating with a rapid and continuous approach to grow our business and our competitive advantage.
- Health & Safety Responsibilities
- Set a good example of safe behaviour, particularly to new entrants and young persons.
- Work in a safe manner and observe site Health and Safety rules and procedures.
- Do not misuse or interfere with anything provided to ensure the Health and Safety of themselves and others.
- Correctly use the protective clothing and equipment provided.
- Report any safety concerns promptly to their Supervisor and take action to prevent injury if it is safe to do so.
- Report all injuries that occur at work and obtain the necessary first aid treatment.
- Help in the investigation of accidents to prevent recurrence.
- Additional Information
This job description reflects the general nature and level of work assigned to the role.
It does not restrict management's right to reassign duties, responsibilities or location at any time based on business needs if the work is similar, related or a logical reassignment for the position.
The company will, where possible, take into account your personal circumstances.
If you feel you're the right fit for this position, please click 'Apply' to join our team!
Please note: We operate an exclusive recruitment partnership with Owen Daniels and therefore kindly request no agency contact.
For any recruitment-related enquiries, please contact Owen Daniels directly.
WHS Plastics is an equal opportunity employer.
Every employee has the right to work in an environment free from all forms of discrimination.
We recruit, employ, retain, promote, discipline, terminate and otherwise treat all employees and job applicants based on qualifications, performance and competence.
All employees and applicants will be treated in line with current legislation and will not discriminate against any of the protected characteristics.
Controls Engineer in Birmingham employer: WHS plastics
As a leading player in the automotive sector, our company offers an exceptional work environment for NPI Quality Engineers, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. Employees benefit from comprehensive training programs, opportunities for professional growth, and a commitment to continuous improvement, all while working in a dynamic location that prioritises quality and customer satisfaction. Join us to be part of a team that values your contributions and supports your career aspirations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Controls Engineer in Birmingham
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like WHS plastics, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Controls Engineer in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to WHS plastics specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at WHS plastics
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with WHS plastics, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like WHS plastics value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
