Step into a high-impact contract role where your PLC and commissioning expertise will directly influence the performance, safety, and reliability of complex industrial automation projects. You’ll work with leading technologies and diverse client sites, taking ownership of commissioning activities from initial programming through to final handover.

About the Role:
As a Contract PLC/Commissioning Engineer, you will be responsible for delivering fully integrated, tested, and documented automation solutions across a range of industrial environments. You will lead on PLC programming, SCADA/HMI integration, and on-site commissioning, ensuring systems operate safely, efficiently, and in line with client specifications and industry standards. Your work will be central to successful project delivery, client satisfaction, and ongoing operational reliability.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, modify, and optimise PLC programs using platforms such as Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Schneider, and similar systems to meet project and client requirements.
• Configure, integrate, and test SCADA/HMI systems, ensuring accurate data acquisition, visualisation, and operator interface functionality.
• Plan and execute on-site commissioning activities, including I/O checks, functional testing, fault finding, and system performance tuning.
• Set up, parameterise, and commission variable frequency drives (VFDs) and motion control systems to achieve required speed, torque, and positioning performance.
• Configure and troubleshoot industrial networks (EtherNet/IP, Profibus, Profinet, Modbus, etc.), ensuring robust communication between PLCs, drives, and field devices.
• Apply industrial safety standards, conduct risk assessments, and verify safety-related functions during commissioning and site acceptance testing.
• Produce clear technical documentation, test reports, and commissioning records, and communicate progress and issues effectively to project managers and clients.
• Provide technical support and guidance to client engineering and operations teams during handover, training, and early operational phases.

Key Requirements:

• Proven experience in PLC programming and commissioning within industrial automation or manufacturing environments.
• Hands-on expertise with at least two major PLC platforms (e.g. Siemens S7/TIA Portal, Allen-Bradley ControlLogix/CompactLogix, Schneider).
• Strong capability in SCADA/HMI configuration and integration, including screen development, alarms, trends, and data logging.
• Practical experience setting up and commissioning VFDs and motion control systems in real-world applications.
• Solid understanding of industrial communication protocols and network configuration (EtherNet/IP, Profibus, Profinet, Modbus or similar).
• Demonstrated ability to interpret electrical and control schematics, P&IDs, and technical specifications.
• Experience applying industrial safety standards and performing risk assessments on automated systems.
• Excellent technical reporting and client communication skills, with the ability to explain complex issues clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Willingness to work on client sites and adapt to varying project environments and schedules.

Desirable Skills:

• Experience with safety PLCs and functional safety systems (e.g. SIL-rated applications, safety relays, safety networks).
• Familiarity with MES, historian, or higher-level system integration.
• Exposure to robotics or advanced motion control systems in multi-axis applications.
• Previous involvement in FAT/SAT procedures and structured commissioning methodologies.
• Experience working in regulated industries such as food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, automotive, or energy.

Qualifications:

• Degree or HNC/HND in Electrical Engineering, Control/Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related discipline.
• Formal training or certification on major PLC platforms (e.g. Siemens, Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Schneider) preferred.
• Additional training or certification in industrial networking or communication protocols advantageous.
• Health and safety training or certification relevant to industrial environments (e.g. IOSH, NEBOSH, or equivalent) beneficial.

If you’re a contract PLC/Commissioning Engineer who enjoys delivering robust automation solutions on-site and working closely with clients, this role offers a challenging and rewarding next assignment. Apply now to be considered for upcoming projects.