Lead Control Systems Engineer

NRL; Warrington; On-site; GBP 70,000 - GBP 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering recruitment firm is seeking a Lead Control Systems Engineer to join their team in Warrington or Cumbria. You will take technical responsibility for complex control and automation projects, focusing on PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems. Ideal candidates will have significant experience in control systems engineering, strong problem-solving skills, and a degree in Engineering. This senior role offers the opportunity to mentor teams and deliver high-quality engineering solutions in regulated environments.

Benefits

Diversity commitment

Inclusivity as an employer

Qualifications

• 8+ years experience in control systems engineering.
• Expertise in PLC/HMI/SCADA design and programming.
• Experience leading control system projects from design to commissioning.

Responsibilities

• Deliver detailed design and implementation of control systems.
• Take ownership of control system deliverables.
• Support integration with electrical and mechanical disciplines.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI design

SCADA implementation

Control system testing

Problem-solving

Mentoring

Education

Degree in Engineering (Electrical, Control Systems, Automation)

Tools

Rockwell

Siemens

Schneider

Job description

# Lead Control Systems EngineerLocationEgremontNRL is currently recruiting for Lead Control Systems Engineer in Warrington or Cumbria. Role- Lead Control Systems Engineer Location- Warrington/Cumbria Hours of work- 40 hours Role Summary We are seeking an experienced Lead Control Systems Engineer to play a key role in the delivery of complex control and automation projects. Working as part of an integrated, multi-disciplinary team, you will take technical responsibility for the design, implementation, testing, and commissioning of PLC, HMI / SCADA-based control systems across the full project lifecycle. This is a hands-on senior engineering role, ideal for an engineer who enjoys technical ownership, problem-solving, and mentoring others, while supporting Lead Engineers and Project Managers in delivering high-quality solutions in regulated environments. Key Responsibilities Technical Delivery · Deliver detailed design, implementation, testing, and commissioning of control systems in line with project requirements. · Take ownership of assigned control system deliverables, ensuring they are produced to a high technical and quality standard. · Configure and develop PLC software, control philosophies, and system configurations using industry-standard platforms. · Develop and deploy simulator applications to support the testing and verification of PLC software. · Support integration of control systems with electrical, mechanical, and wider engineering disciplines. Requirements & Qualifications * Degree in Engineering (Electrical, Control Systems, Automation) or equivalent experience.* Significant experience (typically 8 years) in control systems engineering in a technical lead or Senior Engineer role.* Expertise with PLC/HMI/SCADA design, programming, and implementation.* Demonstrable experience in configuring and utilising simulation tools to support system testing, validation and verification activities.* Proficient in producing high‑quality technical documentation with clarity, accuracy, and consistency.* Proven track record leading medium to large control system projects from design through commissioning.* Excellent stakeholder communication and collaboration skills.* Demonstrable experience mentoring and leading engineering teams.* Strong problem-solving, documentation, and risk management skills.* Knowledge of safety and compliance standards (eg IEC, ISO, industry-specific).Desirable * Experience with multiple control platforms (e.g. Rockwell, Siemens, Schneider).* Experience in regulated or complex technical environments (e.g., Energy, Nuclear etc).* Knowledge of Sellafield Engineering Standards.* Knowledge of functional safety and cybersecurity standards.* Professional registration (CEng, IEng) or equivalent. The NRL Group connect global companies with the right people to bring engineering projects to life. Supporting contracting companies with energy transition plans and working with our clients to create a cleaner, greener future. We welcome applications from every walk of life and are committed to diversity within the industries we support, as a certified Inclusive Recruiter and Armed Forces friendly employer. You can ensure you stay safe when job searching online by visiting the JobsAware website.