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Controls Engineer - Lead Automation (No Visa Sponsorship)
Burton on Trent
Location: Midlands-based, UK travel | Salary: 55,000-60,000 | Type: Permanent, Days
Stop patching legacy systems. Start building the future of industrial automation.
We are a forward-thinking Agri-Tech innovator preparing to launch one of the UK's most advanced indoor production facilities. This is not incremental change. Our systems are hundreds of times more productive than conventional methods, use a fraction of the water, and rely on proprietary automation that sets a new benchmark for the industry.
We need a Controls Engineer to take ownership of our automation roadmap and deliver the PLC/SCADA architecture that will make this scale possible.
What you will do
Design and Develop: Lead the full-stack development of PLC, HMI, and Drive software (Omron Sysmac, Siemens S7, Rockwell/A-B).
Define Strategy: Shape the control architecture and standardisation strategy for modular, deployable facilities.
Collaborate: Work closely with technology teams, suppliers, and contractors to deliver high-performance automation solutions across climate, nutrient, and robotics systems.
Digitalisation: Drive integration of smart systems, industrial protocols (Profinet, EtherCAT, etc.), and IT networking for data-driven optimisation.
Safety and Quality: Ensure systems consistently meet high safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
What we are looking for
5+ years' experience in complex, automated environments such as manufacturing, food, pharma, or process systems.
Hands-on expertise with PLC platforms (Omron Sysmac preferred, Siemens S7 TIA Portal, or Rockwell), with solid HMI/SCADA design experience.
Proficiency in industrial protocols (Modbus, Profinet, EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT) and IT networking.
Proactive, problem-solving mindset with a passion for sustainability and real-world impact.
Why this role matters
This is more than a job. You will shape proprietary technology that could define the future of high-density, controlled-environment production. You will see your designs come to life at scale, contributing to sustainable, locally sourced food production across the UK.
If you are ready to take the lead on automation that could change an industry, apply now.
