Senior Control Systems Engineer

12 Month Contract - Inside IR35

Warrington or Contract

Role Summary

We are seeking an experienced Senior Control Systems Engineer to lead and deliver complex control and automation projects. You will work within a multi-disciplinary team, taking technical ownership for the design, implementation, testing, and commissioning of PLC, HMI, and SCADA-based control systems throughout the full project lifecycle.

This hands-on senior role is ideal for engineers who thrive on problem-solving, technical ownership, and mentoring colleagues, while supporting Lead Engineers and Project Managers to deliver high-quality, safe, and compliant solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Delivery

• Deliver detailed design, implementation, testing, and commissioning of control systems in line with project requirements.
• Configure and develop PLC software, control philosophies, and system configurations using industry-standard platforms.
• Develop simulator applications to support PLC testing and verification.
• Integrate control systems with electrical, mechanical, and wider engineering disciplines.

Design & Documentation

• Produce comprehensive design documentation, including Functional Design Specifications, Detailed Design Specifications, Test Specifications, Operation & Maintenance Manuals, and training materials.
• Interpret and work from engineering drawings, including control enclosures, I/O interfaces, marshalling cubicles, and operator panels.
• Conduct site visits to identify constraints, risks, and design impacts.

Testing, Validation & Commissioning

• Plan and execute formal verification and validation testing, including FAT, CAT, and site acceptance activities.
• Undertake fault-finding and troubleshooting during in-house testing and on-site commissioning.
• Ensure systems meet safety, quality, and performance requirements.

Project & Team Support

• Support Lead Engineers and Project Managers in delivering projects on schedule.
• Provide effort estimates for scope changes and input to project schedules.

What We’re Looking For

Essential Criteria

• HND or Degree in Engineering (Electrical, Control Systems, Automation) or equivalent experience.
• Proven experience in PLC-based control system design and implementation.
• Strong knowledge of IEC 61131 PLC programming languages, PLC hardware, software, and industrial communication protocols.
• Experience delivering projects from design through to commissioning.
• Experience in formal testing, validation, and verification, including simulator tools.
• Strong fault-finding and troubleshooting skills.
• Understanding of electrical and control system drawings.

Company information

At First Recruitment Group we understand just how important it is to secure the right people. That is why our Recruitment Consultants always take the time to understand requirements in detail and offer sound advice to both clients and candidates. We actively recruit at all levels and this is a superb opportunity for a Senior Control Systems Engineer looking for new employment.

As part of putting people first, we strive to be an equal opportunities employer and we are always looking to increase the diversity of our workforce, working closely with our clients to ensure everyone is included.