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Controls Engineer Jobs

Engineers who design and optimise the systems that make robots move and react. A critical role in the robotics ecosystem, blending mechanical, electrical, and software engineering.

Open roles
23
Salary range
£35k – £1000k
Hiring companies
19
View 23 live roles → Get an alert

Controls Engineers are the architects of robotic movement and responsiveness. They design, develop, and optimise the control systems that enable robots to perform tasks with precision and efficiency. These engineers work across a range of industries, from manufacturing and automotive to healthcare and space exploration. They collaborate with mechanical and software engineers to ensure that robotic systems operate smoothly and reliably.

What the role does

Inside the role of a Controls Engineer

A typical week for a Controls Engineer is a mix of design, testing, and collaboration. They spend time both at the desk and in the lab.

  1. 01
    Design control algorithms and systems
  2. 02
    Conduct simulations and tests
  3. 03
    Collaborate with cross-functional teams
  4. 04
    Analyse data and refine systems
  5. 05
    Document processes and results
  6. 06
    Attend project meetings and provide updates
Salary on the board

£35k – £1000k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 21 priced listings posted in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

By seniority
£k base
Junior
35
40
1 job
Mid
40
65
5 jobs
Senior
65
1000
3 jobs
Lead
65
75
1 job
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 3 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

SCADA
67%
Commissioning
67%
Process Control
67%
Industrial Automation
67%
PLC
33%
HMI
33%
Industrial Networking
33%
Functional Safety
33%
OT Cyber Security
33%
Siemens
33%
Rockwell
33%
Mitsubishi
33%
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

A typical UK progression for controls engineers. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.

  1. Level 1

    Junior Controls Engineer

    0–2 yrs

    Assist in the design and testing of control systems, working under the guidance of more experienced engineers.

  2. Level 2

    Controls Engineer

    2–5 yrs

    Take ownership of specific control system components, leading small projects and contributing to larger ones.

  3. Level 3

    Senior Controls Engineer

    5–10 yrs

    Lead the design and implementation of complex control systems, manage teams, and mentor junior engineers.

  4. Level 4

    Principal Controls Engineer

    10+ yrs

    Oversee the entire control systems development process, drive innovation, and influence company-wide technical strategy.

Pathway

How to become a Controls Engineer

There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.

  1. 1

    Academic Foundation

    Gain a strong foundation in mechanical, electrical, and software engineering through a relevant degree programme.

  2. 2

    Internship or Entry-Level Role

    Secure an internship or entry-level position to gain practical experience and build a portfolio of projects.

  3. 3

    Specialise in Controls

    Focus on control systems and robotics through specialised courses, certifications, and hands-on projects.

  4. 4

    Mid-Level Engineer

    Advance to a mid-level role, taking on more responsibility and leading smaller projects.

  5. 5

    Senior Engineer

    Become a senior engineer, managing teams and leading the development of complex control systems.

  6. 6

    Principal Engineer

    Achieve the principal level, where you influence company strategy and drive innovation in control systems.

Live jobs

23 live roles

See all 23 roles →

PLC, Controls & Robotics Engineer

This role involves programming and commissioning PLC-based automation systems, developing HMI solutions, integrating FANUC robots with CNC machines, and supporting full system builds. You will work on diverse automation projects from concept to completion, with opportunities for travel and hands-on learning.

Cartisian Recruitment Coventry, West Midlands (county), United Kingdom £40,000 – £50,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent

Controls and Automation Engineer

As a Controls and Automation Engineer, you will develop, test, and maintain Mitsubishi PLC programs, design and commission electrical control systems, and troubleshoot faults in PLC systems. You will also provide technical training and support, ensuring compliance with electrical standards and safety regulations. This role is crucial for the company's success in delivering high-quality automation solutions.

Jonathan Lee Recruitment Hindlip, Worcestershire, United Kingdom £45,000 – £59,000 pa
On-site Permanent

Control System Engineer

Our client, a pioneering Robotics and Technology company, is recruiting for a Robotics Control Engineer on a full-time permanent basis. This is a hybrid role with occasional travel.Key duties will include but are not limited to:* Assist with developing control...

Eclectic Recruitment Cambridge, United Kingdom

Control & Automation Engineer

Electrical Engineer (Control Systems / PLC)£60,000 - £60,000 + Training + Progression + Overtime + Excellent Company BenefitsLeeds and Surrounding Areas: Wetherby, York, Harrogate, Selby, Otley, Horsforth, KnaresboroughAre you an Electrical Engineer with experience fault-finding PLCs and are looking to...

Rise Technical Recruitment Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS22 6LN, United Kingdom £60,000 – £65,000 pa

Control Systems Engineer

This role involves designing and developing complex industrial machine control systems, including PLC and HMI programming, system commissioning, and customer support. You will work across the full lifecycle of control system development, from coding and testing to commissioning and training, using cutting-edge automation technologies.

Kuka Systems Birmingham, West Midlands (county), United Kingdom £45,000 – £60,000 pa

Control Systems Engineer

This role involves conducting site surveys, developing functional design specifications, and designing, programming, and configuring PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems. You will lead Factory Acceptance Tests, manage project documentation, and mentor junior engineers. The position requires strong PLC programming skills, experience with control systems, and the ability to work safely on-site.

Vantage Reading, Berkshire, United Kingdom £65,000 pa
On-site Permanent

Control Systems Engineers

This role involves writing PLC software, developing SCADA systems, and producing detailed engineering documentation for process automation projects across various sectors. You will work on full lifecycle control systems engineering, from design to commissioning, and collaborate with experienced engineers on technically diverse projects.

Samuel Frank Meadowhall, South Yorkshire, S9 1BW, United Kingdom £50,000 – £65,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent

Control Panel Design Engineer

We are seeking a Control Panel Design Engineer to join a growing industrial controls and automation team. This is a hands-on role, combining panel design, wiring, and testing for a variety of industrial projects.You will work closely with the engineering...

Ltek Recruitment Ltd Birmingham, United Kingdom
See all 23 roles →
Hiring locations

Where this role is hiring

The locations with the most live listings for this role today.

Birmingham

Location
2 open

Reading

Location
1 open

Cambridge

Location
1 open

Coventry

Location
1 open

Milton Keynes

Location
1 open
FAQs

Common questions

  • Essential skills include a strong background in mathematics, programming, and system dynamics, as well as proficiency in control theory and simulation tools.

  • Industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and robotics research centres frequently hire Controls Engineers.

  • Controls Engineers often work in a mix of office and lab settings, collaborating with cross-functional teams and conducting hands-on testing.

  • Continuing education, gaining practical experience, and specialising in advanced control systems and robotics can help you advance your career.

  • Salary ranges vary based on experience and location. For more detailed information, refer to the salary section on this page.

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