Principal Control Systems Engineer

Permanent
Engineering
Senior
PLC, Scada, HMI, System Design, Electrical Controls, Allen Bradley, Siemens
South London, London
London
£62000 - £75000 per annum + Bonus Scheme, Healthcare, Hybrid Working

Are you an experienced engineer ready to lead the development of complex control systems within a secure and highly regulated defence environment? Our client, a key player in the UK defence sector, is seeking a Principal Control Systems Engineer with extensive Siemens PLC and SCADA expertise to join their specialist team.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Capture, interpret, and develop complex customer requirements.
  • Lead the design and testing of Siemens-based PLC control systems (S7-300/400).
  • Develop software using block diagrams, flow charts, or pseudo-code.
  • Produce and review high-quality technical documentation.
  • Manage SCADA/PLC interfacing and industrial communications (e.g., Profibus, Profinet, ModBus, TCP/IP).
  • Support system integration and commissioning activities.
  • Provide technical leadership to junior engineers and project teams.
  • Contribute to project planning, risk management, and customer liaison.
  • Assist with proposal development and contract changes.

Ideal Candidate Profile:

  • Minimum 5 years of experience in a PLC engineering environment, ideally in a lead or senior capacity.
  • Deep knowledge of Siemens Step 7 Classic and associated tools.
  • Experience with fault-tolerant and safety-integrated control systems.
  • Strong understanding of industrial protocols and system integration.
  • Proven ability to work across the full software lifecycle.
  • HND, HNC, or Degree in Electrical/Electronic, Control & Instrumentation, or Systems Engineering.
  • Background in Defence, Maritime, Aerospace, or other regulated sectors (e.g., Oil & Gas, Pharma, Petrochem).

Benefits:

  • Competitive salary: £62,000 - £75,000, depending on experience.
  • Flexible and hybrid working options, including compressed working weeks (e.g., every other Friday off).
  • Private healthcare.
  • Career development, professional training, and mentoring opportunities.
  • Performance-based bonus scheme.
  • Relocation support may be available for eligible candidates.

Please note: Due to the nature of this role, UK citizenship is required. Applicants must be eligible to obtain and maintain UK Security Check (SC) clearance.

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