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Controls Engineer

We are seeking an experienced Controls Engineer to join our controls department. Our client provides specialist control system design, software development, electrical design and manufacturing services for industrial machinery. We deliver practical, high-quality control solutions across a wide range of sectors. This includes Automotive, Aerospace & Defence, Logistics & Material Handling, Food & Beverage and General Manufacturing. We are looking for an engineer who can work closely with customers from concept through to build, installation and commissioning.

The role

The role involves designing, developing, testing and commissioning PLC, HMI and safety software for industrial machinery and automation projects. You will work on projects from software design through to commissioning and customer handover.

Key Responsibilities:

-Design and develop control software for Siemens TIA Portal/S7 and/or Rockwell Studio 5000-based systems.

- Support legacy systems where required, including Siemens S7 Classic and STL/IL code.

- Write PLC software from first principles for industrial machinery and automation projects.

- Develop and test safety software, and validate it against the safety matrix and project requirements.

- Configure and commission VFDs, servo drives, motion systems, fieldbus networks and remote I/O.

- Work with industrial communication networks such as ProfiNet, Profibus, EtherNet/IP or similar protocols.

- Read and interpret electrical drawings, I/O schedules and functional design specifications.

- Carry out electrical and control-system fault finding, including basic checks using a multimeter.

- Create and maintain project documentation such as FDS, test documentation, commissioning notes and O&M information.

- Work closely with project managers, electrical designers, panel build, installation and commissioning teams.

- Commission systems on customer sites, including occasional weekend work and overnight stays where required by the project.

Essential Requirements

- Approximately 5+ years' experience writing PLC software from first principles within an industrial automation or machinery environment.

- Strong experience with Siemens TIA Portal/S7 and/or Rockwell Studio 5000.

- Experience writing, testing and commissioning safety-related control software.

- Experience configuring and commissioning VFDs, fieldbus networks and industrial control hardware.

- Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings and translate them into working control software.

- Competence in practical fault-finding during build, test and site commissioning.

- Experience producing clear technical documentation, including FDS and O&M information.

- Proficient with Microsoft Office for documentation and communication.

- Clear written and verbal communication skills in English, as the role involves regular communication with UK-based customers and project teams.

- Full valid driving licence for use in the UK, as customer-site travel will be required.

- Existing right to work in the UK.

Desirable Exeprience

- Experience with Siemens S7 Classic, STL and/or IL for legacy support work.

- Design and commissioning experience with robots, particularly KUKA, ABB or FANUC.

- Experience with motion control systems, including Siemens, Rockwell, Bosch Rexroth or similar platforms.

- CNC experience, particularly Siemens, Bosch or FANUC.

- Machine safety training or formal functional-safety experience.

- Familiarity with HMI, SCADA or vision systems.

- Experience with EPLAN Electric P8 from a controls or commissioning perspective

- A background in Automotive, Food & Beverage, Aerospace, Pharmaceutical, Printing, Logistics

Benefits

-Competitive salary, dependent on skills and experience

- 23 days holiday plus bank holidays

- 37.5-hour working week

- Workplace pension scheme

- Paid overtime for approved additional hours worked, or time off in lieu where agreed

- Training and development opportunities, including in-house and supplier-led training

- Exposure to a wide range of projects, industries and technologies

- Collaborative and supportive working environment

- Opportunity to work with a respected and established control systems engineering company

- Flexible or hybrid working may be available during suitable software design phase

Proactive Global is committed to equality in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer.
Proactive Global is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

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Controls Commissioning Engineer

We are looking for a Controls Commissioning Engineer who will form part of a dedicated team whose primary focus is to transition our automated equipment from completion of build through to customer inspection and sign-off. The commissioning phase can often present a variety of challenges that are especially prevalent when building bespoke equipment to satisfy our diverse customer base. To overcome these often unique challenges, our commissioning team is well-versed in a variety of skills, and they work collaboratively to find the solutions necessary to bring about the successful completion of the project.

Responsibilities

-Programme and modify control systems using PLC's, Servo drives, Robots, and other specialised controllers specific to customer requirements.

-Troubleshoot & adjust mechanical, electrical, pneumatic and controls equipment.

-Fault finding and operational assessment of mechanisms, both in isolation and in complex form.

-Modifying systems through electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, or software means to enhance performance.

-Identify opportunities to improve a system with a view to presenting these to other team members.

-Perform tests, using structured processes, to build a defined understanding of a mechanism's limitations.

-Record test results in a suitable manner such that they can be used to support the necessity/direction of further work.

-Ensure records of all modifications are documented correctly.

-Provide proactive feedback to the project team to enable the project progress to be determined.

-Participate in internal design reviews on existing or potential projects.

-You may be required to attend and work at customer premises throughout the UK and overseas.

Requirements

-Relevant vocational training or completion of a recognised apprenticeship in electrical and or mechanical discipline.

-Experience programming Programmable Logic controllers (PLC), and Human Machine Interfaces (HMI) using software such as Allen Bradley, Mitsubishi, Festo, Codesys, Siemens.

-Knowledge of setting up Servos, VFD's, Remote I/O, Ethernet and Profibus networks.

-Proven electrical, pneumatic, or mechanical experience within the automation industry.

-Ability to follow electrical and pneumatic schematic diagrams and drawings.

-Knowledge of 6 Axis Robot systems is preferred.

-Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving ability.

-The ability to work on your own initiative from an outline brief.

-Ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines.

-Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

-Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office tools

General Requirements

-Identify and understand the internal customer's requirements.

-All-round proficiency in communication.

-Maintaining a clean paper-free working environment.

-Keeping up to date with company procedures and news.

-Understanding and working with the company's core values.

-Compliance with security procedures and health & safety.

Proactive Global is committed to equality in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer.
Proactive Global is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

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PLC Software Engineer (CodeSys Specialist)
Location: Seattle area (Hybrid role: 50% on-site, 50% remote)

This role will support controls development, work with vendors, understand architecture/function blocks, and a suitable engineer will comfortably work within a global controls team. They will support project delivery, software/control logic discussions, and programming. The role combines duties to be carried out remotely, such as programming support and development, and onsite/travel duties including SATs, machine testing and vendor coordination.

Key Requirements:

Minimum 3 years' experience with CodeSys or Beckhoff programmingStrong background in PLC programming and software developmentProven track record in industrial automation systemsProficiency in Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)Strong understanding of automation components and industrial hardwareExperience in HMI design and WebVisu visualizationPython programming skills beneficial (not essential) for scripting, automation, AI-related tasks, and software problem solving

What You'll Bring:

Expertise in developing and implementing PLC-based control solutions (ST Programming)Capability to design and implement user-friendly HMI interfacesExperience integrating various automation components and systemsKnowledge of industrial communication protocols and field devicesStrong Python programming abilities for automation applicationsProblem-solving mindset and analytical approachAbility to work independently and as part of a team

For more information you can reach out to [email protected]

Proactive Global is committed to equality in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer.
Proactive Global is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

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Position Description:

Generate accurate and detailed electrical documentation for our systems and subsystems, including dedicated electrical enclosures, using EPLANCollaborate closely with suppliers to ensure the manufacturing of electrical cabinets adheres to NEC (NFPA70), UL508/UL508A, and other applicable industry standardsExecute the setup and configuration of various components, including industrial robots, demo cells, end effectors, cameras, lighting, compressed air systems, robot controllers, and vision systemsDesign and program Safety PLCs, HMIs, and/or motion control systems utilizing best practicesCommission the controller and associated equipment at customer sites, ensuring seamless integration with existing systemsCollaborate with cross-functional teams to develop control system architectures for material handling equipment and robotic applicationsProvide expert remote and on-site support for deployed systems, ensuring high uptime and technical performanceParticipate in functional safety risk assessments and validations, ensuring compliance with relevant safety standardsMaintain high standards in documentation and troubleshooting for both development and customer supportStay up to date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in industrial automation

Position Requirements:

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or related discipline.3+ years of experience in industrial automation, system integration, or electrical controls engineeringIndustrial electrical design experience with the ability to generate and interpret electrical schematicsExperience designing with EPLANPLC programming experience (Allen-Bradley/Rockwell Automation and/or Siemens)Hands-on experience with safety PLCs, safety relays, and functional safety design for robotic applicationsKnowledge of functional safety standards including ISO 13849Proficiency with industrial communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP, PROFINET, TCP/IP, MODBUS, IO-LinkStrong understanding of electrical cabinet design, layout, and compliance (UL508A)Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills

Preferred:

Background in warehousing/logistics automation, material handling, or robotic applicationsFamiliarity with robotic arm programming, conveyor systems, sensors, and toolingExperience conducting or supporting safety risk assessments and validations

Physical Demands/ Work Environment:

Travel Requirement: Up to 25%, domestically and internationallyProlonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computerRegularly required to move about industrial warehouse and production environments, including climbing stairs, navigating around equipment, and standing or walking for extended periodsFrequent exposure to mechanical and electrical systems, requiring the use of appropriate PPE and adherence to safety protocolsOccasional lifting and transport of equipment or tools weighing up to 25 pounds may be requiredAbility to work extended hours as required

Proactive Global is committed to equality in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer.
Proactive Global is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

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Key responsibilities:

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop control system architectures for Material Handling equipment and robotic applications  Design, program, and troubleshoot PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), HMIs (Human-Machine Interfaces), and motion control systems  Develop and optimize control algorithms for robotic movements, safety features, and precision tasks  Integrate sensors, actuators, and communication protocols to enhance robotic performance  Conduct system testing, validation, and commissioning to ensure reliable and efficient operation  Provide technical support to field service teams during installation and maintenance  Stay up to date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in controls engineering  Complete the commissioning of complex systems that integrate hardware and software  Experience in understanding schematics and control panels, translating conceptual designs into practical engineering solutions  Provide recommendations for productivity improvement, cost reduction, and enhanced customer satisfaction  Utilizes best practices in writing PLC programs   Generate recommendations for productivity improvement, cost reduction, and enhanced customer satisfaction  Guide overly complex technical interchange and knowledge transfer related to system design and product application  Apply advanced skills to resolve complex problems not covered by existing procedures or practices independently, including developing innovative solutions  Display a high level of critical thinking in bringing successful resolution to high-impact, complex, and cross-functional problems 

Requirements:

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, electrical engineering technology, or comparable engineering degree  5+ years of successful experience in related field for controls engineers  Proficiency in PLC programming (Allen Bradley and/or Rockwell)  Experience writing functional safety programming (5+ years) Experience with IO-Link

Physical Demands/ Work Environment:  

Travel Requirement: Up to 25%, domestically and/or internationally Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer Periods of moving about industrial warehouse and production environments Frequent exposure to mechanical and electrical systems, requiring the use of appropriate PPE and adherence to safety protocols Occasional lifting and transport of equipment or tools weighing up to 25 pounds may be required Ability to work extended hours as required

Proactive Global is committed to equality in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer.
Proactive Global is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

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Job Description
Position Title: Electrical Controls Project Engineer, CPE
Department: Electrical Controls Project Engineering
Reports to: Director of Controls Engineering
Category: Exempt
Position summary:
Electrical controls project engineer, CPE, is responsible for directing, checking, and verifying the entire designs of motor control panels, PLC panels, and associated electrical systems required to control conveyor systems and/or related equipment used in the Material Handling Industry (Freight/Parcel, Baggage Handling, Warehouse Distribution, and Manufacturing). This includes power feed calculations, 480 volt power schematics, 120 volt control schematics, I/O drawings, field device layouts, PLC layout/design, panel layout/design, panel commissioning and checkout. Must be knowledgeable and experienced with UL508A standards, SCCR calculations and methods, material handling system architecture, and networking. Must also be knowledgeable and experienced with PLC and HMI programming for material handling systems. Expert level in programming PLC systems for high-speed sortation applications is desired.

Tasks:
* Confer with sales engineers, project managers, project team, customers, and others to discuss and understand project specifications, scope and design requirements.
* Check and approve detailed drawing sets consisting of conveyor controls layouts, power feed calculations, 480 volt power schematics, 120 volt control schematics, I/O drawings, field device layouts, PLC layout/design, panel layout/design, and other drawings required to implement the project scope as per and ensure compliance with specifications, codes, and customer requirements.
* Prepare specifications for purchase of materials and equipment.
* Operate computer-assisted engineering and design software and equipment to perform engineering tasks.
* Inspect, audit and test completed motor control panels for overall sound construction and compliance with all design standards and specifications.
* Create, Develop, and lead the development of PLC programming code and software for the control of assigned projects. The CPE will be the technical controls lead for a given project throughout its life cycle for our customer.

Skills & Attributes:
* Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
* Troubleshooting - Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
* Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
* Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
* Technology Design - Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
* Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
* Flexibility and Adaptability - Able to work within a fast pace environment with multiple priorities, and multi-task on project work.
* Sound and efficient design abilities.
* Great Attitude, Work Ethic and Common Sense are a MUST.

Technical Skills:
* Product Experience - Allen-Bradley discrete products, Rockwell PLCs such as ControlLogix, CompactLogix and operator interface devices, Rockwell and Siemens Variable Frequency Drives. Schneider product experience is a plus. Motion control design, conveyor merging controls, sortation, and product tracking knowledge are a must. Communication bus design experience that includes ControlNet, DeviceNet, Profibus, and Ethernet/IP.
* Computer Aided Drafting Knowledge - Extremely proficient in the use of AutoCAD and AutoCAD Electrical Software. The ability to use and create custom routines within AutoCAD to help automate repetitive work and to decrease design time.
* Computer Skills - Proficient with Microsoft Office products, Word and Excel. Ability to work with and link Excel files within AutoCAD.
* Troubleshooting Skills - The ability to diagnose and solve customer and product related issues. The ability to travel to job-sites, as required, to aid with project installations, and/or troubleshooting.
Required Experience And Education: Bachelor's Degree in electrical engineering with over 5 years similar experience with material handling equipment controls design

Proactive Global is committed to equality in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer.
Proactive Global is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

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Job Description
Position Title: Controls Engineer

What you'll do
* Design, program, and commission PLC-based control systems for automated material handling equipment
* Support onsite commissioning, troubleshooting, and system startups in fast-paced customer environments
* Collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, and project teams to deliver reliable, on-time solutions
* Ensure customer satisfaction through strong communication and technical execution
* Follow industry safety standards and contribute to a zero-incident culture
* (Senior Levels) Lead technical efforts, mentor junior engineers, and help elevate the controls team Embrace and promote by incorporating into your work the core values

Requirements
* Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, or a related field
* Experience in controls engineering (level aligned to experience):
* Level III: 7+ years
* PLC programming experience (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Beckhoff, or similar)
* Willingness and ability to travel up to 80% to customer sites
* Strong communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally Preferred Qualifications
* Experience in material handling, automation, or industrial systems
* Proven success with onsite commissioning and troubleshooting
* OSHA-30 or relevant PLC certifications
* (Senior level) Experience mentoring engineers or leading technical teams

Proactive Global is committed to equality in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer.
Proactive Global is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

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Position Title: Controls Engineer

What you'll do
* Design, program, and commission PLC-based control systems for automated material handling equipment
* Support onsite commissioning, troubleshooting, and system startups in fast-paced customer environments
* Collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, and project teams to deliver reliable, on-time solutions
* Ensure customer satisfaction through strong communication and technical execution
* Follow industry safety standards and contribute to a zero-incident culture
* (Senior Levels) Lead technical efforts, mentor junior engineers, and help elevate the controls team Embrace and promote by incorporating into your work the core values.

Requirements
* Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, or a related field
* Experience in controls engineering (level aligned to experience):
* Level III: 7+ years
* PLC programming experience (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Beckhoff, or similar)
* Willingness and ability to travel up to 80% to customer sites
* Strong communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally Preferred Qualifications
* Experience in material handling, automation, or industrial systems
* Proven success with onsite commissioning and troubleshooting
* OSHA-30 or relevant PLC certifications
* (Senior level) Experience mentoring engineers or leading technical teams

Proactive Global is committed to equality in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer.
Proactive Global is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

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* $130 000
* Port Clinton, Ohio (25% travel required, with one week per month spent in the office alongside the engineering team).

The employer specialises in the warehouse automation and material handling industry, supporting the development of advanced automation solutions for leading logistics and parcel operations. The company is investing heavily in the growth of its controls engineering capability and offers engineers the opportunity to influence technical standards, software architecture and the future direction of a growing business. They have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Controls Engineer to join their team. This position is well-suited to a technically driven and innovative engineer who is looking to take ownership of controls software development and help build best-in-class automation solutions from the ground up.

Responsibilities:
* Develop PLC software from scratch using Rockwell Studio 5000 and/or Siemens TIA Portal.
* Design reusable function blocks, AOIs and structured PLC software architectures.
* Create and maintain programming standards, engineering documentation and training materials.
* Support controls software development from initial design through testing, FAT and commissioning.
* Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver high-quality automation systems.
* Help develop and improve the company's controls engineering processes and capabilities.

Requirements:
* 5+ years' experience within Controls Engineering.
* Previous experience working with a Tier 1 warehouse automation integrator.
* Strong background in parcel automation systems.
* Proven experience developing PLC software from the ground up.
* Expert knowledge of Rockwell Studio 5000 and/or Siemens TIA Portal.
* Experience creating reusable function blocks, AOIs and structured PLC programming architectures.
* Full project lifecycle experience, from controls design through commissioning.
* Experience producing engineering documentation and programming standards.

Reasons why you should apply:
* Opportunity to play a key role in shaping controls engineering standards and software architecture within a growing automation business.
* A development-focused engineering position rather than a traditional commissioning or support role.
* Work with an experienced controls team on next-generation warehouse automation solutions.
* Opportunity to influence best practices and help build a world-class controls engineering capability.
* Excellent opportunity for an experienced automation engineer looking for technical ownership and long-term career growth.

How to Apply:
For more information on the role, or an informal discussion regarding opportunities we have available, please contact Tara - [email protected]

Why work with Proactive?
Proactive Global is an industry leading, specialist engineering recruitment agency focused on the automation, manufacturing and advanced technology sectors. We offer specialist recruitment services to a niche customer base, vetting that our clients offer the best opportunities for your career. Proactive encourages and promotes equality and diversity within the workforce. We act with honesty, integrity and impartiality, ensuring your application is considered on its own merits and without bias.
When registering with Proactive you will have the opportunity to apply for some of the most interesting, specialist opportunities in the marketplace, with the biggest companies in the sector. Follow us on Linkedin and Facebook for industry news and download our app for live notifications about newly listed vacancies. We look forward to helping you find your next role!

Proactive Global is committed to equality in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer.
Proactive Global is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

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Controls Engineer

Location: Franklin, TN or Remote

About the Opportunity

We're looking for a Controls Engineer to support the design, development, and implementation of automation systems for material handling projects. In this role, you'll lead the electrical design aspects of projects from concept through implementation, helping deliver reliable, scalable, and innovative solutions for a wide range of customers.

This is an excellent opportunity for an engineer who enjoys combining electrical design with hands-on field work while contributing to engineering standards, continuous improvement, and the growth of a collaborative controls team.

What You'll DoLead the electrical design and support implementation of controls systems for material handling projects.Design electrical systems, including field device layouts, control panel designs, and electrical schematics using AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN.Select electrical components, design control networks, develop Bills of Materials (BOMs), and validate equipment selections.Program PLCs and support system commissioning, startup, debugging, and validation.Provide technical support and troubleshooting during equipment installation and commissioning.Deliver projects on time, within scope, and to customer expectations.Develop and maintain electrical design standards, controls documentation, and installation best practices.Collaborate with equipment vendors to evaluate and implement new automation technologies.Identify value engineering opportunities that improve cost efficiency without sacrificing performance.Work closely with project managers, mechanical engineers, field personnel, and customers throughout project execution.Mentor junior engineers and contribute to knowledge sharing across the controls team.Participate in engineering process improvements, internal initiatives, and tool development.Support recruiting efforts and provide technical feedback on engineering software and technologies.Communicate proactively with project teams and leadership to ensure successful project execution.Represent the engineering team professionally during customer meetings, supplier interactions, and site visits.QualificationsBachelor's degree in Engineering or equivalent experience.1+ years of relevant controls engineering experience (or 3+ years of related experience without a degree), preferably in material handling or industrial automation.Experience with AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN, or similar electrical design software.Knowledge of electrical schematics, control panel design, and material handling system layouts.Experience programming PLCs and supporting commissioning activities is preferred.Strong mechanical aptitude and the ability to work in both office and field environments.Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.Self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple priorities and projects.Strong written and verbal communication skills.Team-oriented mindset with a passion for continuous improvement.Willingness to travel up to 50% based on project needs.Why Join Us?Work on innovative industrial automation and material handling projects.Be part of a collaborative engineering team that values ownership, creativity, and continuous learning.Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package.401(k) with generous employer matching.Profit-sharing opportunities.Flexible work environment with autonomy and career growth potential.Ongoing professional development, mentorship, and training opportunities.A positive culture that encourages teamwork, community involvement, and employee engagement.

Proactive Global is committed to equality in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer.
Proactive Global is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

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