Control & Automation Engineer
Role Purpose
Join Bluemethane in tackling climate change by capturing and preventing methane emissions. We’re seeking an experienced Control & Automation Engineer to design and deliver innovative solutions for methane measurement and prevention technology.
This is a hands-on role where you’ll own the control system lifecycle, from concept through commissioning. You’ll collaborate with a mission-driven team, enjoy training allowances, and contribute to sustainability technology that makes a real impact.
Key Outcomes
* Develop and maintain control philosophies, functional specifications, and loop architectures for pilot plants and skids.
* Deliver operational P\&IDs, electrical schematics, and wiring diagrams ready for fabrication.
* Ensure accurate field data integration into PLC/SCADA for safe and efficient operations.
* Commission plants with fully functional VSDs, instruments, and interlocks, ensuring compliance and reliability.
* Provide operating and maintenance documentation for delivered systems.
Responsibilities
* Control Systems Design: Create and maintain control philosophies, functional specs, and loop documentation for pilot plants and modular skids.
* Instrumentation & Drives: Select, configure, and commission sensors, transmitters, and VSDs for pumps and vacuum systems.
* PLC/SCADA Integration: Program and integrate PLCs, configure telemetry, and develop IIoT dashboards for remote monitoring.
* Safety & Compliance: Participate in HAZOP reviews, maintain safety registers, and ensure adherence to UK water industry standards.
* Commissioning & Support: Lead site commissioning, troubleshoot systems, and enable remote access for diagnostics.
* Collaboration: Work closely with mechanical design engineers, OEMs, and water companies to ensure seamless integration.
* Quality Oversight: Supervise wiring and assembly performed by technicians; validate installations against design specifications.
Essential Skills & Experience
* 5+ years in control engineering for pilot plants, process skids, or modular systems (wastewater, oil & gas, or similar).
* Proven hands-on experience building and commissioning control systems (not just design).
* Strong knowledge of PLC/SCADA programming, PID tuning, and industrial communication protocols (Modbus RTU/TCP, MQTT).
* Expertise in instrumentation selection and VSD commissioning.
* Ability to produce high-quality engineering drawings (AutoCAD, MS Visio).
* Familiarity with vacuum systems and integration of pumps and sensors.
* Understanding of UK water industry standards, ATEX/IS compliance, and safety practices.
Nice-to-Have
* Experience with methane/biogas measurement systems.
* Knowledge of IIoT platforms, data governance, and cybersecurity standards.
* Exposure to HART communication and National Instruments DAQ systems.
Working Mode
* Based at Bluemethane’s Cranfield office.
* Frequent site visits for commissioning and vendor meetings.
* Remote monitoring and configuration supported.
Salary & Benefits
* Salary: £43,700 – £50,500 (depending on experience)
* Share options package
* 28 days holiday
* Generous training allowance
* On-site parking
Education
* Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Control, or Automation Engineering (or equivalent experience).
Experience
* Control engineering: 5 years (required)
* Wastewater or oil & gas: 1 year (preferred)
* Demonstrated portfolio of control system projects.
Work Authorisation
* United Kingdom (required)
Willingness to Travel
* Up to 50% for commissioning and site support.