Senior Control Systems Engineer

  • First Recruitment Group
  • Kenyon, Warrington
  • Aug 14, 2025
Contractor I.T. & Communications

Job Description

PLC Control Systems Engineer Contract Opportunity


Location: Warrington OR Sellfafield OR Stockton
Sector: EC&I / Nuclear / Regulated Industries
Salary: Contract Rate Negotiable (INSIDE IR35)
Start: ASAP

I'm supporting one of our long-standing clients a specialist engineering business operating across regulated industries who are looking to strengthen their Control Systems team with an experienced PLC Engineer.

This role will suit a detail-oriented engineer with proven experience in the design, development, testing, and documentation of PLC-based control systems. While nuclear sector experience is a strong advantage, they re open to talent from other highly regulated environments.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Design, develop, implement and test PLC-based control systems.

  • Produce high-quality engineering documentation, including:

    • User Requirements and Traceability (URS/RTM)

    • Functional and System Design Specs (FDS/SDD)

    • Software Specifications (SSS)

    • Test Documentation (Module/Integration/System/Hardware)

    • I/O Schedules, Alarm Lists, O&M Manuals

  • Develop PLC software (IEC 61131 languages), ideally in Rockwell, Schneider, or Siemens platforms.

  • Collaborate closely with SCADA, HMI, and database engineers to define and deliver control system architecture.

  • Generate network diagrams and interface documentation with cyber security best practices in mind.

  • Support and conduct in-house and on-site acceptance testing (FAT/SAT).

  • Assist with installation, commissioning, and producing operator/maintainer training documentation.

  • Read and interpret engineering drawings related to control panels and enclosures.

  • Work closely with Lead Engineers and Project Managers to meet delivery schedules and flag scope or technical issues.

What They re Looking For:

Essential:

  • Strong track record in PLC control systems design and delivery.

  • Hands-on programming experience with IEC 61131-based systems.

  • Comfortable producing all levels of technical documentation.

  • Deep understanding of industrial control systems, communications protocols, and electrical panel design.

  • Strong fault-finding skills and attention to detail.

  • Experience in regulated environments, ideally EC&I or nuclear.

  • Confident communicator and collaborative team player.

Desirable:

  • Familiarity with Rockwell ControlLogix and/or Schneider M580.

  • Exposure to integrated SCADA/HMI systems.

  • Understanding of cyber-secure control system design.

  • Experience working to BS 61508 / 61511 (Functional Safety).

  • Knowledge of Sellafield Ltd V-Model and engineering standards.

Qualifications:

  • Degree in Engineering (or equivalent experience in EC&I with PLC focus)

  • Professional membership (e.g., IET) and/or vendor certifications (Rockwell/Schneider) preferred