Job Title: Controls Engineer – Special Purpose Machinery / Automation
Location: Bedford, Bedfordshire
Salary: £28,000 – £40,000 + Benefits
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Are you a Controls Engineer looking to work on cutting-edge automation and bespoke machinery projects?
We’re recruiting on behalf of a leading engineering company based near Bedford that designs and manufactures special purpose machinery and automation equipment. They are expanding their team and looking for a talented Controls Engineer to support the development of innovative, custom-built automation systems.
The Role:
As a Controls Engineer, you’ll be involved in the full controls lifecycle – from initial specification and software design through to commissioning and final handover. This is a hands-on role offering variety and the chance to work on technically challenging projects tailored to individual customer needs.
Key Responsibilities:
*
Design and develop PLC and HMI software for custom automation systems
*
Integrate sensors, actuators, motion control systems, and safety devices
*
Create electrical schematics using CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical)
*
Assist in the commissioning and testing of machinery, both in-house and on-site
*
Collaborate with mechanical and electrical engineers throughout the project lifecycle
*
Ensure designs meet safety regulations and industry standards
About You:
*
Experience in controls/software engineering for automated machinery
*
Knowledge of PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Mitsubishi, etc.)
*
Comfortable reading electrical schematics and working closely with electrical hardware
*
Ideally experienced in HMI/SCADA development
*
Based near Bedford or able to commute
*
Able to work both independently and as part of a project team
What’s on Offer:
*
Work on bespoke automation projects from concept to completion
*
Be part of a respected and growing engineering business
*
Competitive salary between £28,000 – £40,000 (depending on experience)
*
Great team culture, ongoing development, and real career progression
Interested?
We’d love to hear from local Controls Engineers who are passionate about automation and want to be involved in unique and innovative projects