Software Controls Engineer – PLC & HMI Hybrid – 3 days office (Basildon Essex) / 2 days WFH (Flexible) Salary: £40-60k Paid Overtime Are you passionate about automation and control systems? Do you enjoy turning complex requirements into reliable PLC and HMI solutions? We’re looking for a Software Controls Engineer to join our growing team and work on exciting special-purpose machinery projects for leading clients, primarily in the automotive sector. About the Role In this role, you’ll develop, test, and commission software using Siemens TIA Portal (S7-1200 / S7-1500). You’ll work across the full project lifecycle — from design and simulation to on-site commissioning — ensuring software solutions are robust, compliant, and meet customer expectations. You’ll collaborate closely with electrical, mechanical, and commissioning teams, and play a key role in integrating functional safety systems and adhering to industry standards. Key Responsibilities * Develop PLC and HMI software using Siemens TIA Portal (S7-1200 / S7-1500) * Work from customer specifications, URS, FDS, and internal control philosophies * Integrate safety systems and diagnostics using Siemens Safety Integrated or equivalent * Configure industrial networks (Profinet / Profibus) and interface with drives, HMIs, robots, and third-party devices * Support FAT, SAT, and commissioning activities on-site and at customer locations * Troubleshoot and resolve software issues during build and commissioning phases * Maintain software documentation, backups, versioning, and technical notes * Ensure compliance with safety standards (ISO 13849, IEC 62061, IEC 61508) Skills & Experience * HNC / HND / BEng in Electrical Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, or related discipline * Proven experience with Siemens TIA Portal and S7-1200 / S7-1500 PLCs * Experience in the automotive or special-purpose machinery sector * Strong understanding of functional safety standards (ISO 13849, IEC 61508) * Experience with structured programming, version control, and troubleshooting live systems * Familiarity with drives (e.g., Siemens G120), sensors, and I/O modules * Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and system layouts * Willingness to travel for commissioning (domestic & international) * Excellent organisational, communication, and teamwork skills Desirable: * CSME or TÜV Functional Safety Certification What We Offer ✨ Competitive, negotiable salary based on experience ✨ Paid overtime ✨ Hybrid working – 3 days in the office / 2 days WFH (full-time on-site during commissioning) ✨ Opportunities to work on high-profile automation projects with leading automotive clients If you’re ready to design and commission cutting-edge automation systems and see your software in action on real machinery, we’d love to hear from you! Apply now with your CV or contact us for a confidential discussion