John Charles Search has been retained on an exclusive basis by a global leader in warehouse automation and material-handling technologies to identify a Controls Manager who will lead controls strategy and project delivery across UK automation operations.
Package:
Base Salary: £80,000 – £90,000
Bonus: 10% (performance-based)
Benefits: Car / Car Allowance, Pension, Healthcare, Phone & Laptop provided
The Role:
As the Controls Manager, you will lead all aspects of controls engineering across multiple automation projects, from concept development through commissioning.
You’ll oversee a growing team of controls engineers, ensuring robust system design, safety compliance, and seamless integration of PLC, SCADA, and motion systems within complex automated environments.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead, develop, and mentor the controls engineering team across multiple UK projects.
* Oversee system architecture, PLC programming standards, safety compliance, and commissioning processes.
* Ensure high-quality delivery of control systems for conveyors, sortation, AS/RS, and robotic automation solutions.
* Collaborate cross-functionally with mechanical, electrical, and software teams to support seamless project execution.
* Drive continuous improvement in controls strategy, standardisation, and system optimisation.
* Act as a technical authority during customer meetings, design reviews, and onsite commissioning activities.
About You:
* Proven background in controls engineering within warehouse automation, conveyor systems, robotics, or material handling.
* Strong experience with PLC/SCADA platforms (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Beckhoff, Mitsubishi).
* Hands-on commissioning experience with automated warehouse or logistics systems.
* Demonstrated leadership ability—team management or project lead experience is strongly preferred.
* Excellent problem-solving and communication skills, with the capability to engage confidently with customers and internal stakeholders.
* Structured, proactive, and able to drive projects to completion within a fast-paced engineering environment.