Controls / Automation Manager (PLC) – Hybrid (Gatwick) – £50,000–£80,000
Location: Gatwick (Hybrid working)
Salary: £60,000–£90,000 + package (DOE)
Type: Permanent
Overview
We’re recruiting a Controls / Automation Manager to lead the design and delivery of control systems for industrial engineering applications. This role suits a hands-on controls professional with strong PLC experience and proven capability managing automation projects end-to-end.
A key requirement is experience working with controls that interface with piping systems and/or hydraulic or pneumatic systems. The successful candidate will understand how controls interact with fluid/air power systems and be confident collaborating with mechanical/process engineering stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
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Lead controls/automation delivery across projects from concept through commissioning
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Develop and support PLC-based control systems (platform agnostic – any PLC background considered)
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Produce/own control documentation including control philosophy, functional specs and testing plans
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Oversee integration of instrumentation, valves/actuators, panels and field devices
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Lead commissioning, troubleshooting, optimisation and continuous improvement
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Manage stakeholders (internal teams, suppliers, contractors) and ensure delivery to time/cost/quality
Essential Experience / Skills
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Strong hands-on PLC controls experience (any platform considered)
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Proven experience leading automation/control projects (technical lead / manager / project owner level)
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Experience with at least one of the following is essential:
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Piping systems (e.g., valves, actuators, flow/pressure control, instrumentation, pipework packages), and/or
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Hydraulic systems (e.g., pumps, manifolds, cylinders, pressure control, proportional valves), and/or
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Pneumatic systems (e.g., compressors, FRLs, pneumatic valves, actuators, air systems)
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Strong fault-finding skills and commissioning exposure
Desirable (nice to have)
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HMI/SCADA experience
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Experience managing small teams / vendors / subcontractors
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Electrical controls design exposure (panel design input, I/O, schematics)
What’s on Offer
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£60,000–£90,000 salary depending on experience
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Hybrid working, office base in Gatwick
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Varied projects and a leadership role with genuine ownership