Electrical Design Engineer - Contract Location: Essex Rate: £40-£50 per hour (Outside IR35) Contract Length: 6 months Working Pattern: 4-5 days per week onsite About the Role We're working with an established automation company based in Essex who are seeking an experienced Electrical Design Engineer to join them on a 6-month contract basis. The successful candidate will be responsible for the design and development of electrical control systems and documentation for bespoke automation and special purpose machinery projects. This position is outside IR35 and offers the opportunity to work within a fast-paced engineering environment delivering high-quality automated solutions. Key Responsibilities Design and develop electrical schematics, control panels, and wiring diagrams for automation systems. Create detailed documentation including BOMs, layouts, and cable schedules. Collaborate closely with mechanical, software, and project teams to ensure integrated system designs. Ensure designs comply with relevant standards (BS EN 60204, Machinery Directive, etc.). Support build, testing, and commissioning phases, providing design input and problem-solving expertise. Manage electrical design change control and ensure designs are delivered to agreed project timelines. Key Skills & Experience Proven background as an Electrical Design Engineer within automation or special purpose machinery industries. Experience using EPLAN, AutoCAD Electrical, or similar CAD packages. Strong understanding of control system design, PLC integration, and panel build principles. Knowledge of industrial standards and safety regulations (CE marking, PUWER, etc.). Prior experience working on automotive automation projects (assembly lines, test rigs, robotic cells, etc.) is highly desirable. Ability to work effectively onsite within a collaborative engineering environment.