Step into a high-impact contract role where your PLC programming expertise directly drives uptime, safety, and productivity in a fast-paced industrial environment. You’ll work with cutting-edge automation technologies, integrating PLCs, robots, vision systems, and SCADA/HMI solutions to deliver robust, compliant control systems.

About the Role:
As a Contract PLC Programmer, you will design, develop, and commission control software for complex automated systems, with a focus on Allen Bradley platforms. You’ll collaborate closely with engineering, maintenance, and production teams to implement reliable, safe, and scalable solutions that support continuous improvement. This role is hands-on and project-focused, requiring you to take ownership from concept through to on-site deployment and optimisation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, test, and implement PLC programs on Allen Bradley platforms for new and existing automation systems.
• Configure, program, and integrate KUKA robots into automated production cells, including motion and sequence control.
• Integrate Cognex vision systems for inspection, guidance, and verification, ensuring reliable communication with PLCs and robots.
• Design and configure industrial networks and fieldbus protocols (e.g. Ethernet/IP, Profibus, Profinet) for robust, secure connectivity.
• Interpret and work from electrical schematics to configure PLC hardware, I/O modules, and field devices.
• Develop and integrate SCADA and HMI applications for monitoring, control, diagnostics, and operator interfaces.
• Conduct on-site commissioning, troubleshooting, and optimisation of control systems to meet performance and safety targets.
• Ensure all control solutions comply with relevant industrial safety standards and documentation requirements.

Key Requirements:

• Proven experience as a PLC Programmer with strong hands-on expertise in Allen Bradley PLCs (ControlLogix, CompactLogix, or similar).
• Demonstrable experience integrating industrial robots, preferably KUKA, into automated systems.
• Practical experience configuring and integrating Cognex camera/vision systems in an industrial environment.
• Strong understanding of industrial networking and fieldbus protocols for automation systems.
• Ability to read, interpret, and work from electrical schematics and panel layouts.
• Experience with SCADA systems integration and HMI development for industrial applications.
• Solid knowledge of industrial safety standards and compliance (machine safety, interlocks, safety PLCs, etc.).
• Strong troubleshooting skills and the ability to work independently on-site under time and production constraints.

Desirable Skills:

• Experience with other PLC platforms and automation vendors.
• Familiarity with safety PLC programming and functional safety design.
• Exposure to MES/ERP integration or higher-level data systems.
• Experience in high-volume manufacturing or process industries.
• Ability to document code, configurations, and changes using structured methodologies.

Qualifications:

• Degree or diploma in Electrical Engineering, Automation, Control Systems, Mechatronics, or a related discipline.
• Recognised training or certification in PLC programming (Allen Bradley/Rockwell) preferred.
• Additional certifications in industrial safety or functional safety (e.g. TÜV) advantageous.
• Relevant vendor-specific training for KUKA robots or Cognex vision systems beneficial.

If you’re a contract PLC professional ready to tackle complex automation projects and deliver reliable, compliant solutions, we’d like to hear from you. Apply now to bring your expertise to a challenging and rewarding assignment.