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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
50
Salary range
£40k – £69k
Hiring companies
37
View 50 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

£40k – £69k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 104 priced listings posted in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

Salary visibility
30% of listings advertise a salary — up from 0% the year before.
By seniority
£k base
Mid
40
67
59 jobs
Senior
53
71
10 jobs
Lead
55
75
5 jobs
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 98 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

PLC Programming
50%
SCADA
38%
HMI
38%
Commissioning
34%
PLC
34%
Siemens
28%
Industrial Automation
27%
Control Systems
18%
Allen Bradley
17%
Functional Safety
16%
TIA Portal
14%
Ladder Logic
14%
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

50 live roles

See all 50 roles →

Actemium Automation Warrington - Software Controls Engineer

This role involves hands-on development, testing, and commissioning of PLC and HMI/SCADA systems for industrial automation projects across manufacturing and process sectors. The engineer will integrate control systems, support site commissioning, and provide technical troubleshooting, working closely with project teams and clients. Key responsibilities include software design, system integration, and adherence to safety and quality standards.

Actemium UK Cheshire, United Kingdom

Actemium Automation Hampshire - Senior Software Controls Engineer

This role involves leading the design, development, and commissioning of PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems for industrial automation projects in regulated sectors such as water, energy, and process industries. The engineer will produce functional design specifications, support factory and site testing, troubleshoot control systems, and mentor junior team members. The position offers technical ownership and collaboration with cross-functional engineering teams in a supportive, safety-focused environment.

Actemium UK Waterlooville, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Automation Experts Ltd logo

Controls & Automation Engineer

Design, program, test, and commission PLC and SCADA systems for industrial automation projects across global sites. Work on full lifecycle control system integration using modern platforms like Ignition and WinCC, with opportunities for on-site commissioning and system optimization. Support installation and troubleshooting while collaborating with engineering teams and clients.

Automation Experts Ltd Oxfordshire, United Kingdom £40,000 – £65,000 pa
On-site Permanent

Electrical Controls & Instrumentation Engineer

This role involves maintaining and improving industrial automation systems, including PLCs, DCS, and SCADA, across heavy manufacturing processes such as furnaces. The engineer will ensure system reliability, perform fault diagnosis, support capital projects, and uphold safety and compliance standards in a high-risk industrial environment. Key responsibilities include calibration of field instruments, control logic maintenance, and technical leadership for technicians.

Reed S47Ur, S4 7UR, United Kingdom £49,000 – £52,000 pa
On-site Permanent

Controls & Automation Engineer

As a Controls & Automation Engineer, you will play a key role in maintaining and improving automated production systems, fault-finding, and supporting production-critical machinery. You will work closely with maintenance and production teams, participate in on-call rota, and mentor other engineers and apprentices.

Yolk Recruitment Weston-super-Mare, United Kingdom £55,000 – £60,000 pa
On-site Permanent Flexible

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
Amazon logo

System Development Engineer, WW AMZL In House Controls, In-House Controls, World-Wide Central Engineering

Design and implement PLC-based automation software, lead global deployments, and drive continuous improvement in control systems. Focus on standardised solutions, system optimisation, and mentoring engineering teams across international sites. Work spans software development, commissioning, and operational support for large-scale automated facilities.

Amazon London, United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent

Control Systems Engineer

The Control Systems Engineer will design and develop electrical control systems for advanced machine tooling equipment, producing technical documentation and leading system optimisation and integration projects. This role involves close collaboration with OEMs and cross-functional teams to ensure regulatory compliance and performance across UK and EU markets. The engineer will also support troubleshooting efforts and lead commissioning activities for new and upgraded machinery systems.

Meridian Business Support Tiverton, Devon, United Kingdom £45,000 pa
On-site Permanent
See all 50 roles →
Top hirers

Companies hiring controls engineers

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Hiring locations

Where this role is hiring

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

London

Location
4 open

Leicester

Location
3 open

Cambridge

Location
2 open

Coventry

Location
2 open

Birmingham

Location
1 open

Manchester

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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