Controls Engineer

Contract Automation Engineer – Food & Beverage (Outside IR35)Location: Crawley (Hybrid/On-site as required)Contract Length: Initial 6 monthsRate: Negotiable (DOE)

OverviewWe are seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to support a key project within the food & beverage manufacturing sector. This role will involve working on complex process systems, with a focus on delivering high-quality automation solutions within a regulated production environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement automation solutions for process systems
• Modify and optimise existing PLC/HMI/SCADA systems
• Support installation, commissioning, and validation activities
• Work closely with cross-functional engineering and production teams
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and best practices
• Troubleshoot and resolve automation and control system issues

Key Requirements

• Strong background in automation engineering within food & beverage manufacturing
• Proven experience with PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley or similar)
• Experience with SCADA/HMI systems
• Demonstrated experience working on process-driven environments (e.g., liquid processing, batching, or filling systems)
• Ability to support installation and commissioning activities on-site
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills

Desirable Experience

• Previous experience within dairy or liquid food processing environments
• Exposure to large-scale production systems and hygienic design standards
• Experience working on projects with major food manufacturers or OEM equipment suppliers
• Familiarity with process skids, CIP systems, or similar technologies