Controls Engineer

Location: LeicesterDuration: 3 Months (initial)Engagement: Outside IR35Rate: £45 hour (Ltd company)Working Arrangement: On-siteStart Date: ASAPWe are seeking an experienced Controls Engineer to support a busy manufacturing facility in Leicester on a short-term project basis. The role focuses on Allen-Bradley PLC systems and IO-Link device integration, supporting both upgrade and maintenance work on various automation projects.The successful candidate will be confident working on-site, hands-on with PLCs, sensors, and industrial networks, providing fault finding, commissioning, and controls improvements.Key Responsibilities

• Support ongoing automation and control system upgrades across production machinery.

• Program, test, and modify Allen-Bradley (Rockwell) PLCs using Studio 5000 / RSLogix 5000.

• Configure and integrate IO-Link devices, hubs, and master modules.

• Perform on-site commissioning, troubleshooting, and optimisation of control systems.

• Read, interpret, and update electrical schematics and control documentation.

• Collaborate with electrical engineers, maintenance teams, and production supervisors to minimise downtime.

• Ensure system safety and compliance with site standards and best practices.

Essential Experience

• Proven track record as a Controls / Automation Engineer in an industrial or manufacturing setting.

• Hands-on experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs (ControlLogix / CompactLogix) and Rockwell Automation platforms.

• Working knowledge of IO-Link technology and communication networks.

• Strong understanding of industrial control systems, including sensors, actuators, and field wiring.

• Capable of independent problem solving and fast-paced fault resolution.

• Ability to document work clearly and communicate effectively with technical and non-technical colleagues.

Desirable Skills

• Experience with HMI configuration (FactoryTalk View).

• Familiarity with EtherNet/IP and related network architectures.

• Knowledge of control panel wiring or electrical assembly.

• Prior contracting experience working under Outside IR35 arrangements.

Engagement DetailsRate: £45 per hour (outside IR35, Ltd company engagement).Duration: 12 weeks, likely to extend based on project workload.Hours: 40 hours per week (on-site in Leicester).