PLC Engineer
Location: Stanford-le-Hope, Essex
Salary: £62,659.55 (including shift allowance) + up to 10% quarterly bonus (worth c.£6,000 per year)
Hours: Panama shift pattern (2 days, 2 off, 3 nights, 2 off, 2 days, 3 off – 6am to 6pm)
Employment Type: Permanent, Full-Time
About the Role
A leading international engineering and logistics organisation is seeking an experienced PLC Engineer to join their advanced automated port operations team in Essex. This position offers a unique opportunity to work with large-scale automated machinery and complex control systems in a highly technical environment.
You'll take responsibility for maintaining and optimising the PLC, drives, and automation infrastructure across site – ensuring reliability, safety, and maximum operational uptime.
Key Responsibilities
* Maintain, troubleshoot, and optimise PLC, inverter drive, and control systems across large automated machinery.
* Diagnose and resolve faults at both software and hardware level on PLCs, drives, PCs, and automation networks.
* Support commissioning, upgrades, and implementation of new automation projects and equipment.
* Manage and maintain software version control, backups, and documentation for PLC programs.
* Carry out root cause analysis on recurring automation and control issues to improve reliability and performance.
* Provide technical guidance and mentoring to technicians and engineering teams on PLCs and drive systems.
* Liaise with suppliers and OEMs to optimise automation performance and resolve technical issues.
* Ensure full compliance with company Health & Safety policies, including RAMS, LOTO procedures, and safe working practices.
About You
* Time-served Electrical or Automation Engineer with a minimum Level 3 qualification (or equivalent).
* Strong, hands-on experience with PLC fault-finding, modification, and programming (Siemens, Allen Bradley, or similar).
* Skilled in inverter drives, motor controls, sensors, and industrial automation systems.
* Previous experience within heavy industry, automotive, ports, rail, or defence sectors is highly desirable.
* Comfortable working at heights and outdoors as part of an operations-focused maintenance team.
* Hold a valid UK driving licence and able to pass a site medical (under 130kg limit).
What's on Offer
* Competitive salary including shift allowance
* Quarterly performance bonus (up to 10%)
* Excellent pension scheme (4% employee / 6% employer)
* 22 days annual leave
* Ongoing professional development and clear progression opportunities within a global engineering environment
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