Programmable Logic Controller Programmer (PLC Programmer)

Software Engineer – Industrial Automation (Material Handling & Controls)

Sector: Aviation Security Screening Systems

Location: North West UK (must be based in NW)

Travel: Occasional (approx. 1 trip per month)

Type: Full-time | Permanent / Temp-to-Perm considered

Salary: TBC

Overview

We are seeking an experienced Software Engineer with a strong background in industrial automation and material handling systems to support the development and deployment of advanced conveyor-based solutions used within aviation security environments. This role sits within a specialist engineering environment delivering automated passenger screening lane systems deployed globally. Candidates must have very specific hands-on experience in PLC-based automation, conveyors, and commissioning environments—this is not a process industry role.

Key Focus Areas

Automated material handling systems (conveyors, robotics integration)

PLC-based control systems supporting high-throughput environments

Airport security screening lane automation

System commissioning, support, and on-site troubleshooting

Must-Have Requirements (Critical – please read carefully)

We are only considering candidates who meet all or most of the following:

North West UK based (essential)

Strong experience in material handling systems

Conveyors

Robotics integration

Automated movement systems

❌ Not process industry (no pumps, chemicals, oil & gas, etc.)

Willingness to travel internationally occasionally (approx. once per month)

Strong Siemens PLC experience (primary requirement)

Proven hands-on commissioning and field support experience

Factory acceptance testing (FAT)

Site installation & commissioning (SAT)

Fault-finding in live environments

Additional Requirements

Strong understanding of industrial automation software/control systems

Ability to read and interpret technical electrical/mechanical drawings

Confident troubleshooting skills in live system environments

Comfortable working across engineering and commissioning phases

Strong communication skills for site/customer interaction

Siemens PLC expertise + commissioning background

Real material handling / conveyor automation experience

Willingness to travel internationally

NW UK location requirement

What’s on Offer

Work on cutting-edge aviation security automation systems

International project exposure (airport environments)

High-technology, real-world deployed systems (not R&D only)

Strong long-term project pipeline in a niche sector

Opportunity to work across full system lifecycle (build → test → deploy → support)

ATA is committed to creating a diverse workforce and is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation