Job Overview

The Controls Engineer is responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of manufacturing control systems and automated production equipment. This role supports plant operations by developing and optimising PLC, HMI, SCADA, robotics, and industrial network systems to improve safety, quality, productivity, and equipment reliability.

The Controls Engineer works closely with Production, Maintenance, Safety, Quality, Engineering, and external vendors to troubleshoot issues, implement process improvements, and support capital projects within a manufacturing environment.

Your new role:

Own and manage the Computer Aided Manufacturing System (CAMS) across multiple manufacturing sites and production equipment.

· Administer and maintain manufacturing recipe management systems, ensuring backups, version control, audit trails, and document retention requirements are met, with job reporting aligned to Quality Management System (QMS) standards.

· Develop, modify, maintain, and troubleshoot PLC, HMI, and automation control systems to support safe, reliable, and efficient manufacturing operations.

· Lead system upgrades, enhancements, and expansion projects to improve process robustness, error-proof manufacturing activities, reduce waste, increase efficiency, and support future business requirements.

· Troubleshoot electrical, controls, instrumentation, and automation issues, ensuring timely resolution of breakdowns and providing support for a 24/5 manufacturing operation.

· Develop data analysis and reporting tools to monitor equipment performance, process capability, quality metrics, and investigate operational abnormalities.

· Drive integration and connectivity between CAMS, MES, MRP, and other manufacturing information systems to improve data visibility and process control.

· Prepare and manage capital expenditure (CAPEX) projects, including business case development, cost estimation, justification, approval processes, budget control, and project delivery.

· Support the installation, commissioning, validation, and handover of new manufacturing equipment and automation systems.

· Provide technical support to Production and Maintenance teams to improve equipment reliability, performance, and availability.

· Lead root cause investigations and implement effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) to prevent recurrence of failures.

· Identify and deliver continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, productivity, efficiency, and cost reduction.

· Develop and maintain controls documentation, software backups, technical standards, and engineering records.

· Collaborate with cross-functional teams, equipment suppliers, contractors, and stakeholders to deliver equipment upgrades and manufacturing improvement projects.

· Analyse production, quality, and equipment data to drive operational excellence and support data-driven decision-making.

· Ensure all work is conducted in accordance with company safety policies and procedures, proactively identifying, reporting, and mitigating hazards to maintain a safe working environment.

Your ideal background:

· Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related discipline, or equivalent industry experience.

· Proven experience in controls engineering within a manufacturing, industrial, or automated production environment.

· Strong knowledge of machine processes, measurement systems, and industrial automation principles.

· Hands-on experience programming, commissioning, and troubleshooting PLC systems, including platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, and Schneider Electric.

· Working knowledge of HMI, SCADA, MES, MRP, industrial networking, and integrated control systems.

· Sound understanding of electrical systems, instrumentation, sensors, variable speed drives, motors, and process control equipment.

· Advanced IT proficiency, including Microsoft Office applications and manufacturing systems such as MRP, MES, and SCADA platforms.

· Demonstrated ability to diagnose complex technical issues and implement effective, sustainable solutions in a timely manner.

· Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a logical and methodical approach to troubleshooting.

· Experience managing projects and engineering activities to defined timelines, budgets, and performance objectives.

· Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results effectively in a fast-paced operational environment.

· Highly detail-oriented, with the ability to think strategically and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across Engineering, Operations, Maintenance, and Production teams.

· Proficient in engineering documentation, technical reporting, and maintaining accurate records in accordance with company standards and regulatory requirements.