Automation Engineer

Job Title

Automation Engineer

Coventry

Our client, a leading provider of advanced control and automation solutions, is seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to join their growing controls team in Coventry.

Reporting to the Controls Engineering Manager, the Automation Engineer will take responsibility for delivering high‑quality programmable systems (PLCs/Robots) across the full project lifecycle – from concept and design through to virtual commissioning, installation, and aftersales support. The role involves executing a variety of automation projects independently or as part of a team, ensuring the delivery of professional, efficient, and right‑first‑time automation systems.

• Design, install, and integrate automation systems at both company and customer sites in line with internal tools, procedures, and standards.
• Produce Functional Design Specifications (FDS) based on customer requirements and internal specifications.
• Assist or lead hardware design teams (ePLAN and Pneumatics) to select appropriate equipment for each application.
• Develop, test, and validate programmable systems including PLCs, HMIs, Robots, Safety Systems, Drive Systems, Vision Systems, and SCADA.
• Conduct virtual commissioning and demonstrate system performance prior to on‑site commissioning.
• Configure and commission networking and distributed I/O systems (e.g. Profi Net, Ethernet/IP).
• Lead or support FAT & SAT activities and ensure CE compliance through appropriate documentation.
• Train end users during handover and provide technical support for aftersales and warranty activities.
• Actively promote Industry 4.0 technologies and practices in line with the company's digital strategy.
• Support the training and development of junior engineers and colleagues across the controls function.

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience as a multi‑skilled Automation Engineer with strong design and integration capabilities.
• Proficient in a range of control systems and technologies, including Siemens, Rockwell, Beckhoff, ABB, and Cognex.
• Background in manufacturing and assembly automation, ideally from an electrical or controls engineering environment.
• Experience producing technical documentation, leading commissioning activities, and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams.

• PLC/HMI programming (Siemens TIA Portal, WinCC Unified, Rockwell, Beckhoff).
• Programmable safety systems (Siemens TIA Safety, Rockwell, Pilz).
• Robot programming (ABB, Fanuc, Kawasaki).
• Drive and Vision Systems integration (Siemens, SEW, Bosch, Cognex, Keyence).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and automation software tools.
• Preferred: ePLAN P8 Electrical Design, Pneumatics/Fluids design (Festo Fluid Draw or ePLAN Fluid), SCADA programming, and experience with standards such as SICAR, DCP, Trans Line, and PackML.

• Time‑served or formally trained Automation Engineer with a minimum Level 3 Apprenticeship or HNC in Engineering (Degree preferred).
• Electrical qualification or background strongly preferred.
• Recognised vendor training/accreditations (e.g. Siemens, Rockwell, ABB, Beckhoff, Fanuc) are advantageous.