System Controls Engineer

Role: System Controls Engineer
Location: Birmingham
Salary: £50,000 – £60,000 + benefits

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced Senior Controls Engineer to join a growing automation business based in Birmingham. This role offers the chance to lead on high-value automation projects, working across AGVs, conveyors, robotics, and large-scale material handling systems. You’ll be involved in the full project lifecycle – from initial concept design through to commissioning and CE certification – while also mentoring junior engineers and engaging with stakeholders at all levels.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, programming, and commissioning of automation and control systems (PLC/HMI/Drives/Networks).

• Deliver AGV, conveyor, and sortation system solutions from concept through to deployment.

• Write PLC and Safety PLC code (Siemens TIA Portal, SEW Movisuite, Allen Bradley, Beckhoff, Schneider, Mitsubishi, Omron).

• Ensure CE certification and Technical Construction File delivery for major projects.

• Drive stakeholder engagement across engineering, operations, and board-level functions.

• Mentor and manage controls engineers, embedding best practice in design and commissioning.

• Support value engineering, procurement, and delivery within budget and timeframes.

• Ensure compliance with safety standards (ISO 13849, IEC 61131-3, BS 7671, etc.).

About You

• Degree or equivalent in Electrical, Electronic, or Controls Engineering.

• Strong background in automation, robotics, and controls (postal, food, logistics, or related industries).

• Proven expertise in PLC programming (Siemens TIA Portal V19 Certified, plus exposure to other platforms such as Allen Bradley, Beckhoff, and Schneider).

• Experience in delivering multi-million-pound automation projects (AGVs, conveyors, sorters).

• Skilled in Safety PLC programming to PLe standard.

• Hands-on knowledge across electrical, electronic, mechanical, and fluid power disciplines.

• Excellent communicator, with the ability to manage stakeholders and coach engineering teams.

What’s on Offer

• Salary in the range of £50,000 – £60,000, depending on experience.

• The chance to work on cutting-edge, large-scale automation projects.

• A supportive and technically strong team environment.

• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.

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WR is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.