Graduate PLC Engineer

Graduate PLC Engineer

About the Role

We’re seeking a Graduate PLC Control Systems Engineer to assist in design, program, test, and commission industrial control systems across power solutions projects. Including diesel generator controls, switchgear/ATS/AMF panels, load sharing/synchronisation, and associated HMI/SCADA interfaces.

The role spans the full project lifecycle (FDS/DDS, coding, FAT/SAT, on-site commissioning), working closely with the lead electrical design, project managers, and clients to deliver robust, safe, and maintainable systems that meet industry standards.

Key Responsibilities

1. Assist in Design & Development and assist and learn more about all the details below

• Produce and own control system deliverables: User Requirements (URS), FDS, DDS/SDS, I/O lists, Cause & Effect, alarms, and test plans.

• Develop PLC/HMI/SCADA applications to internal coding standards and client specifications.

• Configure and integrate generator controllers (Deep Sea Electronics (DSE), ComAp, Woodward), synchronising and load-sharing schemes, ATS/AMF logic, and black‑start/priority management.

• Interface PLCs with protection relays, meters, breakers, UPS, and BMS/EMS systems.

• Collaborate with electrical design for wiring schematics (e.g., EPLAN/AutoCAD Electrical) and panel build liaison.

1. Testing & Commissioning

• Lead FAT/SAT, I/O checks, loop testing, simulation, and site commissioning.

• Troubleshoot PLC, HMI/SCADA, and comms networks; implement robust fixes and design improvements.

• Produce handover packs, as‑built software, change logs, and training for end users (O&M).

1. Documentation, Quality & Compliance

• Maintain version control, change management, and code libraries (e.g., Git-based workflows).

• Ensure compliance with functional safety and electrical standards where applicable (e.g., IEC 60204‑1, SIL principles/IEC 61511), PUWER, and Machinery Directive/UKCA.

• Contribute to RAMS for site works; uphold ISO 9001 quality procedures and good engineering practice.

1. OT Networking & Cybersecurity

• Design and commission industrial Ethernet networks (managed switches, VLANs, NAT, routing).

• Implement and document secure architectures and segmentation, harden PLC/HMI/SCADA assets, and apply password/backup policies and access controls in line with best practices.

• Configure and troubleshoot common industrial protocols: Modbus TCP/RTU, Profinet, Profibus, EtherNet/IP, OPC UA; (nice to have: IEC 61850, DNP3).

1. Continuous Improvement & Support

• Mentor junior engineers, contribute to coding standards, reusable function blocks, and templates.

• Provide remote and on‑site support, root‑cause analysis, and preventive maintenance

recommendations.

• Suggest design enhancements for reliability, maintainability, and lifecycle cost reduction.

Technical Skills

Plc / Hmi / Scada

• Allen Bradley, Siemens TIA Portal (SCL/ladder), WinCC/Unified; Rockwell Studio 5000

(Ladder/Structured Text), FactoryTalk View.

• Optional: Schneider EcoStruxure, Mitsubishi GX Works, Beckhoff TwinCAT, AVEVA/Wonderware, Ignition.

• Must have written system code from conception / from design.

Generator & Power Integration

• DSE/ComAp/Woodward controller integration, breaker control, load management, protection interfaces.

• Familiarity with UPS systems, power meters, and protection relays.

Networks & Protocols

• Layer‑2/3 concepts, VLANs, NAT, routing, industrial firewalls; Modbus, Profinet, Profibus,

EtherNet/IP, OPC UA.

Electrical & Safety

• Read/mark up schematics, panel layouts, and cable schedules.

• Awareness of IEC 60204‑1, functional safety (SIL concepts), BS 7671 principles, PUWER; RAMS.

Qualifications & Certifications (Desired)

• Degree/HND in Electrical, Electronic, Control/Automation, or Mechatronics Engineering (or

equivalent experience).

• ECS/CSCS or safety passports.

• Full UK driving licence and ability to work on client sites.

• Nice to have: Functional Safety awareness (e.g., TÜV), CompEx/ATEX awareness where applicable.

Personal Attributes

• Methodical, safety‑first, and quality‑driven, strong attention to detail.

• Clear communicator with clients, site teams, and non‑technical stakeholders.

• Proactive problem solver, comfortable under time pressure during commissioning.

• Team player who can also work independently and mentor others.

• Willing to travel to sites across the UK

Benefits

• Competitive salary £30,000-£45,000 depending on your level of experience

• Company pension; 25 days’ holiday & bank holidays.

• Company laptop & mobile phone.

• Training & certification support (APM/PRINCE2/18th Edition/Siemens/Allen‑Bradley).

• Professional membership support (IET/APM).

• Flexible site travel expenses.

• Private health care (post probation)

Working Pattern

70% Office/ 30% site as needed by projects. UK travel to customer sites, factories, and FAT locations.

Equal Opportunities

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals.

Candidates must have the right to work in the UK, have a British passport or settlement status