Automation Engineer

Established in 1994, OCU Group is one of the fastest growing utility engineering contractors in the UK, with a long successful track record in delivering customer-focused civil engineering solutions. Working directly with many of the country’s leading blue-chip power, water, telecoms and rail clients, we are looking for the very best talent to join our growing team. We pride ourselves on empowering our employees and offering opportunities for them to take control of their own personal development and career progression in a supportive environment. We believe that being successful is a choice. We choose to be successful. We are OCU, ‘One Company United’.

OCU Hornbill (Part of the OCU Group) currently have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Automation Engineer. As we continue to grow through 2024, this has provided us with an opportunity to grow and develop our design department based in our Neath depot. The role comprises the specification, and programming of PLC based control systems for a wide range of industrial applications for various clients. Systems Projects are predominately based in the UK although occasionally foreign travel may be required.

1. The candidate will be required to advise and assist the design department when specifying PLC based control systems, including communication networks.
2. Produce project estimations, quotations, and tenders.
3. Organise & manage personnel and resource (materials) requirements for projects.
4. Ongoing engineering management.
5. Generation and coordination of project documentation.
6. Increase the employee and client understanding in important systems design and development.
7. Cost conscious, ensuring costs are measured and documented to support the project manager with budgeting and bids.
8. Client liaison both existing and new via site visits and meetings etc.
9. Manage relationships with assigned customer accounts.
10. Ensure adherence to company and industry regulations.
11. Ensure the highest levels of quality are met.

Proficient software programmer with extensive knowledge of multiple platforms for PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems (Ideally Siemens and Rockwell platforms). Experience of Electrical control system project lifecycle from initial concept through to commissioning and customer support. Experience of industrial network protocols and an understanding of Variable Speed Drive systems are essential, along with a thorough understanding of hardware-based safety control systems. Familiar with the surrounding electrical control and safety systems, the ability to produce electrical schematic designs will be a distinct advantage. The ability to project manage and undertake site commissioning of PLC based control systems and acceptance. Experience with setting up managed network switches. Design, deploy, and manage network solutions tailored to meet the client requirements. Knowledge and experience with the programming and setup of safety PLCs from a variety of manufacturers. Experience with setup, implementation, and modification of DCS systems.

Established in 1994, OCU Group is one of the fastest growing utility engineering contractors in the UK, with a long successful track record in delivering customer-focused civil engineering solutions. Working directly with many of the country’s leading blue-chip power, water, telecoms, and rail clients, we are looking for the very best talent to join our growing team. We pride ourselves on empowering our employees and offering opportunities for them to take control of their own personal development and career progression in a supportive environment. We believe that being successful is a choice. We choose to be successful. We are OCU, ‘One Company United’. We celebrate difference and appreciate diverse backgrounds. We encourage everyone who join us to be themselves at work and create inclusive teams in our workplace.