Job Description
?? Ashbourne - Derbyshire
? Engineering ¦ Manufacturing ¦ Pilgrim's Europe
?? Rotating Days & Afternoons
We're looking for an experienced and forward-thinking Lead Electrical Systems & Controls Engineer to join our Engineering team at our Ashbourne site.
Reporting to the Maintenance Manager / Site Engineering Manager, you'll champion the site's electrical systems and controls infrastructure — ensuring reliability, compliance and continuous improvement across production operations.
This is a key technical leadership role, combining hands-on expertise with project delivery, compliance oversight and team development, working on a rotating days and afternoons shift pattern.
The Role
As Lead Electrical Systems & Controls Engineer, you will:
* Lead and deliver electrical system projects that support site Continuous Improvement initiatives
* Design and upgrade control panels and circuit diagrams in line with UK legislation and site standards
* Provide expert-level fault finding and repair support, particularly PLC and automation-related issues
* Support Shift Engineers and provide electrical breakdown cover to production
* Upgrade and maintain site PLC programs and backups (Allen Bradley & Siemens)
* Evaluate and recommend machine modifications and system enhancements
* Ensure compliance with industry standards (including BS7671) and company Electrical Policy
* Conduct testing and inspections to maintain system safety, functionality and reliability
* Identify opportunities to improve energy efficiency and system performance
* Input and analyse data within CMMS to identify trends and recurring issues
* Support the Electrical Duty Holder in maintaining site standards
* Provide training and technical guidance to engineers and apprentices
* Work closely with approved suppliers and third-party engineers to deliver compliant, high-quality solutions
* You'll play a vital role in ensuring production equipment runs efficiently, safely and in line with customer and regulatory requirements.
What We're Looking For
You'll bring:
* NVQ Level 3 (Electrical) or equivalent
* Time-served Electrical Engineer (HNC/HND desirable)
* 18th Edition qualification
* Strong working knowledge of PLC and automation systems (Allen Bradley & Siemens)
* Proven experience within manufacturing and automated production environments
* Strong fault-finding and problem-solving capability
* The ability to work under pressure and prioritise effectively
* Experience using CMMS and IT-based maintenance systems
* Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to support and influence across departments
* You'll be proactive, technically strong, detail-focused and committed to delivering safe and reliable systems.
Why Join Us?
At Pilgrim's Europe, you'll join a business where engineering excellence underpins operational success. We offer:
* Competitive salary
* A senior technical role with real site-wide impact
* Rotating days and afternoons shift pattern offering structured variety
* Opportunities to lead and deliver meaningful Continuous Improvement projects
* Investment in training and professional development
* A collaborative Engineering team environment
* The opportunity to shape and modernise site electrical and automation systems
* A values-led culture focused on safety, ownership and high performance
Ready to Power Our Performance?
If you're an experienced electrical controls engineer who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and enjoys solving complex technical challenges — we'd love to hear from you.
Bring your expertise, ownership and drive, and help us build a safer, smarter and more efficient operation at Ashbourne.
Apply today and take the next step in your engineering career with Pilgrim's Europe
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