Automation Controls Engineer

Job Title: Automation Controls Engineer

Location: Lincolnshire (ideally based near Gainsborough)
Reports To: Engineering Manager / Controls Manager



Monday to Friday



Role Overview

We are looking for an experienced Automation Controls Engineer for our client in Gainsborough to support the design, development, commissioning, and ongoing support of automated machinery within the food processing and packaging sector.

The role will suit a proactive individual with strong PLC and control systems experience, ideally with exposure to VFFS or similar machinery. This is a hands-on role involving mainly office-based project work and a small amount of on-site trouble-shooting/commissioning, requiring occasional travel and overnight stays.

Key Responsibilities

Design, develop, and implement control systems for automated machinery and production lines.

Program, test, and commission PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems.

Support installation and commissioning activities both in-house and at customer sites.

Fault-find and troubleshoot control systems and automation issues on existing equipment.

Modify and upgrade existing machine control systems to improve performance and reliability.

Work closely with mechanical and electrical engineers to deliver integrated automation solutions.

• Produce and maintain technical documentation, including:
  • Functional design specifications
  • Electrical schematics (in collaboration with electrical design teams)
  • Software documentation and version control

Provide technical support to Field Service Engineers and customers.Ensure compliance with relevant safety standards, including machinery safety and CE/UKCA requirements.

Skills & Experience Required

Strong experience in PLC programming (e.g., Allen Bradley, Siemens, or similar).

Experience with HMI/SCADA platforms (e.g., WinCC, FactoryTalk, Proface, etc.).

• Solid understanding of industrial automation systems, including:
  • Drives and motion control
  • Sensors and instrumentation
  • Pneumatics and process control

Experience working with packaging machinery (VFFS highly advantageous) or food process machinery.

Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings and control system architecture.

Strong problem-solving skills with a structured approach to fault finding.

Understanding of industrial communication networks (e.g., Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP).

Full UK driving licence.

Personal Attributes

Self-motivated with the ability to manage workload and deadlines.

Strong attention to detail and commitment to delivering high-quality solutions.

Good communication skills, both internally and with customers.

Flexible and willing to travel for commissioning and support work.

Calm and methodical under pressure during fault-finding scenarios.

Working Conditions & Travel

Mix of office-based engineering work and occasional on-site commissioning.

Travel across the UK (and possibly future overseas travel).

Overnight stays required during commissioning phases.

Flexibility required around project deadlines and site work.

Desirable (but not essential)

Experience with VFFS or high-speed packaging machinery.

Experience with vision systems.

Functional safety knowledge (e.g., safety PLCs, risk assessments).

Electrical design experience (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN).

Relevant qualifications (HNC/HND/Degree in Electrical, Electronic, or Automation Engineering).

What We Offer

Competitive salary (depending on experience) expected to be at least £55,000

Overtime / site allowances

Company vehicle or travel expenses

Pension scheme

25 days annual leave + bank holidays

Ongoing training and professional development

Opportunity to work on innovative automation projects within a growing sector



Reflect Recruitment Group is operating as Employment Agency under the Employment Agencies Act 1973.