We are seeking an experienced Automation and Control Engineer to oversee all automation and control systems that regulate our paint and sealant manufacturing operations at Sheffield. This critical role ensures equipment reliability, minimizes downtime, and drives continuous improvement across our production processes.
As the site technical expert, you will manage programming, servicing, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis for PLCs, SCADA systems, HMIs, electrical controls, and related infrastructure. You will also lead vendor management, develop documentation, and implement strategies to optimize system performance and future‑proof our operations.
Responsibilities
* Site lead overseeing all industrial control systems (ICS), that operate, automate and regulate manufacturing processes, with the aim of ensuring that all equipment and machinery is in good working order and keeping production downtime to a minimum across our paint and sealant manufacturing operations
* Oversee programming, servicing, fault‑finding, root cause analysis and troubleshooting activities across the range of programmable logic controller (PLC), automated and other systems, software, Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs), electrical controls and installations, switchgear and distribution systems
* Site technical expert concerning the IC‑systems used on site, providing operational support and imparting knowledge to other Engineering / Maintenance colleagues and providing training to raise competency levels
* Manage the service contract with the preferred IC‑vendor, monitoring performance and implementing a plan to become more self‑sufficient and less reliant on the contractor
* Create and manage control system documentation and reference material for site operations and technical support personnel
* Work alongside the Reliability Engineering team as the lead for the site IC‑obsolescence program, identifying critical pieces of plant and areas for investment
* Create and implement a plan to modify current programs and configurations to optimise capability and performance, develop improvement recommendations for plant, equipment and working practices
* Specify IC equipment, obtain cost estimates, generate bills of materials and expedite purchasing and fabrication of electrical controls equipment, in line with SW preferred equipment
* Support the development and implementation of projects that drive continuous improvement, through enhancements to existing control software and hardware systems, working from conception through to completion, including installation and commissioning, monitoring and maintaining
* Complete job records in the Computerised Maintenance Management System (CMMS) so that data/trends can be compiled
* Manage the site electrical schematics, including specifications and program back ups
* Monitor machine efficiencies to promote performance at optimum levels
* Provide out of hours call‑out support remotely by means of a company mobile phone
* Ensure all safety rules and safe working procedures are adhered to including but not limited to, working under the site’s Permit To Work, Lock Out Tag Out Test and Risk Assessment systems
* All employees are legally responsible for their own health and safety as well as those who may be affected by their acts or omissions. They are also legally required to co‑operate in health and safety matters as directed by their employer
* Performs other duties as assigned
Qualifications
* Either degree in a relevant Engineering discipline or significant technical / professional experience in the area of automation and controls
* Significant (suggested minimum 5 years) relevant engineering/maintenance experience
* Exposure to industrial control systems and methodologies, including PLC and SCADA systems
* Team player with effective interpersonal skills, about to work well in multi‑disciplinary teams to solve problems and deliver improvements
* Knowledge and experience of continuous improvement techniques.
* Knowledge, effective use and development of Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) systems
* ATEX/DSEAR knowledge/Experience would be an advantage
* Proven experience with Rockwell Automation and Siemens platforms
* Experience in PLC programming (Allen-Bradley and Siemens)
* Experience with SCADA development using Ignition and InTouch
* Strong understanding of industrial networks including DeviceNet, Ethernet/IP and Profibus
* Ability to interpret electrical schematics and P&IDs
* Excellent troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills
* Strong written and verbal communication skills
* Experience in commissioning and site support
Preferred Skills
* Certified with Continuous Improvement tools; 6 Sigma, Lean, and Root Cause Analysis.
* Knowledge of industry RAGAGEP for industrial automation (ISA, IEC, PIP)
* Knowledge of Process Safety Management relating to control & automation
* An understanding of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement techniques
* Awareness of SEVESO/COMAH
* Keen and conscientious approach to Health and Safety is essential
Internal Vacancy Announcement
This vacancy is advertised exclusively for internal candidates, with a closing date of Monday 5th January 2026
Interview dates: Proposed for week commencing 5th Jan. Successful candidates will be notified in advance, allowing time to prepare.
***Please be aware that you can apply for any internal job offer after minimum one year in current role having previously informed your manager.
Please read the guidelines before handing in your application
All internal employees when applying for a role are required to upload their updated and their last 2 appraisals (which can be retrieved from HR Cloud).
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