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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
64
Salary range
£30k – £85k
Hiring companies
45
View 64 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

£30k – £85k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 71 priced listings posted in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

By seniority
£k base
Junior
35
40
2 jobs
Mid
30
85
45 jobs
Senior
65
70
2 jobs
Lead
50
75
2 jobs
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 65 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

PLC Programming
40%
PLC
38%
SCADA
37%
HMI
35%
Siemens
32%
Commissioning
26%
Industrial Automation
25%
Control Systems
22%
Rockwell
18%
Allen Bradley
17%
TIA Portal
15%
Automation
12%
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

64 live roles

See all 64 roles →

Controls & Electrical Design Engineer

This role involves designing and programming control systems for industrial automation, creating electrical schematics in AutoCAD Electrical, and supporting the integration and commissioning of new systems at customer sites. The engineer will work closely with the design and applications engineering team to deliver projects on time and ensure electrical systems meet EU standards.

Ssc Recruitment Solutions Didcot, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent

Controls and Automation Technical Support Engineer

The role involves designing, developing, and validating advanced control and instrumentation systems for sustainable energy solutions, including microgrids, renewable generation, and energy storage systems. Responsibilities include full lifecycle management of control systems, integration of third-party renewables, and continuous improvement of existing energy assets.

Rolls Royce Mid Sussex, United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent

Field Service Engineer – Automation, BMS & Controls

This role involves installing, commissioning, and supporting automation, SCADA, and BMS control systems across data centers, advanced manufacturing, and high-spec environments. You will work on-site, providing technical support, troubleshooting, and system training, while collaborating with in-house software and design teams.

Pearson Whiffin Recruitment Group Ramsgate, United Kingdom £30,000 – £55,000 pa
On-site Permanent

Control Systems Engineer

The role of a Control Systems Engineer in the Manufacturing and Production sector requires expertise in projects, implementing, and maintaining control systems to optimise production processes. Based in Rotherham, this permanent position offers a challenging opportunity to work on innovative...

Michael Page Engineering & Manufacturing Rotherham, United Kingdom £45,000 – £55,000 pa

Control Systems Test + Validation Engineer

This role involves developing and maintaining V&V plans for battery control systems, managing certification requirements, and setting up MiL, SiL, and HiL testing environments. You will also design test benches, execute integration testing, and analyze test results, ensuring robust inter-system communication and compliance with industry standards.

Jonathan Lee Recruitment Ox120Dq, OX12 0DQ, United Kingdom £60,000 – £65,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent

Automation Engineer / Control Engineer - PLC – Midlands

This role involves on-site installation, commissioning, and maintenance of industrial automation systems, with a focus on PLCs, robotics, and control systems. You'll troubleshoot technical faults using electrical schematics and PLC programming, provide client training, and ensure equipment operates efficiently. The position requires frequent regional travel across the Midlands and strong hands-on skills in both electrical and mechanical systems.

MYO Talent West Midlands (region), United Kingdom £25,000 – £55,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent

Electrical Control & Engineering Specialist

This role involves investigating electrical and control systems incidents, assessing risk management and safety controls at industrial sites, and producing technical reports. You will work with a specialist team to improve safety standards and compliance across high-hazard industries.

Electus Recruitment Basingstoke, United Kingdom £55,000 – £66,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent
Automation Experts Ltd logo

Lead Control Systems Engineer

This role involves leading the design and development of PLC, HMI, and SCADA control systems for industrial automation projects, from concept through commissioning. The engineer will take technical ownership, act as the primary technical contact for clients, and mentor junior team members. Work includes programming with Siemens TIA Portal or Rockwell platforms, creating functional specifications, and supporting integration with electrical systems in a hybrid working environment.

Automation Experts Ltd Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom £50,000 – £65,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent
See all 64 roles →
Hiring locations

Where this role is hiring

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

London

Location
3 open

Manchester

Location
2 open

Reading

Location
2 open

Cambridge

Location
2 open

Glasgow

Location
1 open

Bristol

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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