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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
67
Salary range
£30k – £85k
Hiring companies
45
View 67 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

67 live roles

See all 67 roles →

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

Senior Control Systems Engineer

Design and implement end-to-end automation solutions using PLC, HMI, and SCADA technologies across diverse industrial sectors including food, beverage, and chemicals. Work within a multidisciplinary team to deliver turnkey projects from concept through commissioning, with responsibilities spanning technical design, client liaison, and on-site support. The role involves significant client interaction and requires strong problem-solving skills in industrial control systems.

Nelson Permanent Placements Kings Norton, West Midlands (county), B38 8SD, United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent

Software Control Teleoperation Engineer

This role involves developing immersive VR control experiences for humanoid robots, including real-time communication, video streaming, and motion tracking. The engineer will work on optimizing low-latency systems, integrating stereo video and depth data, and designing intuitive user experiences for teleoperation.

Humanoid London, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent

Lead Control Systems Engineer

Lead the design and development of industrial control systems using Siemens PLC platforms, overseeing projects from requirements capture through to commissioning. Provide technical leadership to engineering teams and engage directly with clients on complex automation and energy infrastructure projects. Involved in both new-build and upgrade programmes with a focus on safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance.

Meritus Talent Manchester, United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent

Lead Control Systems Engineer

The Lead Control Systems Software Engineer will oversee the design, development, and delivery of industrial control system software solutions using Siemens PLC platforms. Responsibilities include leading project lifecycles, mentoring engineers, interfacing with clients, and supporting commissioning and testing activities for complex energy and automation projects.

Meritus Talent Glasgow, Alba / Scotland, G2 1AL, United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent

Lead Electrical Lift Engineer - Control Panel Design

This role involves leading a small engineering team while remaining hands-on with the design and development of custom electrical control panels for lifting and access systems. The engineer will ensure compliance with UK safety standards, support production and commissioning, and drive process improvements. It's a technical leadership position within a manufacturing environment focused on engineered-to-order solutions.

ACS Recruitment Solutions Ltd Welton, United Kingdom £60,000 – £70,000 pa
On-site Permanent
Automation Experts Ltd logo

Control Systems Design Engineer

This role involves designing and developing PLC software for automated machinery, producing technical documentation, managing projects, and supporting machine innovation. You will work on cutting-edge automation systems for the pharmaceutical industry, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and introducing new technologies.

Automation Experts Ltd United Kingdom £35,000 – £55,000 pa
On-site Permanent
See all 67 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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