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.

• 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.

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