Responsible Instrument Engineer – Upper Tier COMAH Site | North East England
* Salary:
up to £85,000 pa
* Hybrid working:
3 days per week onsite in Greatham, 2 days WFH
* Location
: This role offers financial relocation support to candidates looking to relocate closer to site.
* Benefits
: Support with Chartership fees and Training & Development
* This role can be offered on a contract basis, until a permanent candidate is appointed.
Seeking a Responsible Instrument Engineer (RIE) to join our Engineering Leadership Team at a high-hazard, Upper Tier COMAH facility based in Greatham.
This is a critical role overseeing the strategy, compliance, and performance of instrumentation and automation systems across a complex, safety-focused manufacturing site. You will ensure that assets are designed, installed, maintained, and operated in line with UK legislation, internal engineering standards, and industry best practices.
Key Responsibilities:
* Develop and lead the site-wide strategy for instrumentation and automation engineering excellence.
* Own the competency framework and appointment process for all instrument engineering personnel and contractors.
* Act as the technical authority for all instrument and automation compliance, standards, and deviations.
* Provide leadership in the management of asset integrity, regulatory interface (e.g. UK HSE), and inspection regimes.
* Oversee PSM/COMAH compliance for instrument-related systems and assets.
* Approve critical equipment modifications and repairs to ensure safety and operational continuity.
* Represent instrument engineering within the wider engineering leadership team, contributing to strategy, capital planning, and site improvement.
Ideal Candidate Profile:
* Degree-qualified in Instrumentation, Electrical or relevant engineering discipline.
* Working to or hold Chartered Status
* 10+ years of experience in instrumentation leadership roles within Chemical COMAH high-hazard industries
* Understanding of IEC 61508 and 61511 functional safety standards.
* Strong background in asset lifecycle, control systems, instrumentation design, and compliance.
* Proven leadership skills – able to engage, inspire, and enforce engineering best practices.
* Experience working with regulators and external engineering services.
Why Apply?
* Join a globally respected business with strong values and a commitment to continuous improvement.
* Lead a site-critical function with autonomy and influence.
* Attractive salary, benefits, and professional development opportunities available.
If you're an experienced instrumentation leader looking for your next challenge in a highly regulated, impactful environment – we'd love to hear from you.
For more information on this role, please contact Ashleigh North on or
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