Job Description - Automation / Electrical Controls Engineer (Contract)

📍 Location

Portsmouth, UK (on-site)

📅 Contract Type & Duration

• Contract role (outside IR35 / SoW-based)
• Approx. 18-19 month engagement (through to end of 2027)
• Start date: ASAP

🚀 Overview

We are seeking an experienced Automation / Electrical Controls Engineer to support the development of advanced engineering systems within a highly regulated manufacturing environment.

This is a hands-on role combining design, build, and test responsibilities, with a strong focus on automation hardware and instrumentation.

🧠 Key Responsibilities

• Select and specify electrical and automation components, including:
  • Sensors, transmitters, motors, pumps
• Review technical specifications and ensure component suitability
• Develop system architecture and interconnections
• Produce electrical designs and wiring diagrams (EPLAN preferred)
• Build and assemble prototype systems
• Conduct testing, troubleshooting, and iterative improvements (alpha/beta phases)
• Create and maintain technical documentation
• Support transfer of designs into manufacturing

🔧 Key Requirements

• Strong background in automation, controls, or electrical engineering
• Proven experience in:
  • Component selection and system integration
  • Electrical design and wiring diagrams
• Experience with EPLAN (or similar design tools)
• Ability to interpret technical specifications and produce documentation
• Hands-on engineering experience (assembly, testing, prototyping)
• Certification/qualification to work on live electrical cabinets (UK compliant)

🌍 Working Environment

• Primarily on-site role (with limited flexibility for remote work)
• Collaborative international environment with global engineering teams
• Exposure to cross-functional teams including software and manufacturing

💡 Key Competencies

• Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking
• Ability to challenge ideas constructively with data-driven reasoning
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving project environment
• Effective communication across global teams and stakeholders

🎯 Ideal Profile

• Automation / Controls Engineer with instrumentation exposure
• Experience working on complex engineered systems or equipment
• Comfortable balancing hands-on work with design and documentation
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills