Senior System Engineer (Automation) reference: 1193285701

Unlocking Opportunity: A Deep Dive into the Senior System Engineer (Automation) Role at Bilfinger UK

Bilfinger UK, a prominent leader in engineering and maintenance, presents an exciting opportunity for a seasoned professional to join their team as a Senior System Engineer (Automation). This role is not just a job; it's a strategic move for those looking to expand their influence, deepen their technical expertise, and guide the future of automation across a multitude of critical industries.

Operating across 14 strategic hubs and supported by over 4,500 employees, Bilfinger UK boasts a vast footprint in sectors ranging from nuclear and oil & gas to renewables, pharmaceuticals, and food & beverage. Their commitment to enhancing asset efficiency, ensuring high availability, and reducing maintenance costs, all while upholding the highest standards of safety and quality, sets a strong foundation for innovative engineering.

Let's explore the advantages and key considerations for potential candidates.

Advantages for Your Career Path:

• Diverse Industry Exposure: This role offers unparalleled exposure to a wide array of high-impact industries including Nuclear, Oil & Gas, Food & Beverage, Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals, Energy/Renewables, Data Centres, and Utilities. This diversity ensures a constantly evolving learning environment and a broad portfolio of experience.
• Cutting-Edge Technology & Solutions: You will work with leading automation platforms such as Rockwell, Siemens, Schneider, AVEVA, and Ignition. The scope of solutions spans PLC, HMI, SCADA, MES, Batch, Functional Safety, OT Cyber Security, and Industry 4.0, positioning you at the forefront of industrial automation innovation.
• Leadership & Mentorship Opportunities: As a Senior System Engineer, you will take full technical ownership of projects, allocating tasks, supervising team members, and providing crucial technical guidance. The emphasis on 'Mentoring of Engineers' highlights a commitment to developing talent, offering a clear path to leadership and influence.
• Comprehensive Project Lifecycle Involvement: From initial sales handover, outline design, and detailed development (FDS, DDS) to integrated testing (CFAT, SAT) and on-site commissioning, you will be deeply involved in every phase of the project lifecycle. This holistic experience is invaluable for career growth and becoming a well-rounded engineer.
• Impactful Contributions: Your work will directly contribute to enhancing the efficiency, safety, and reliability of critical assets, making a tangible difference in essential industries.
• Pathway to Professional Registration: The requirement for a Degree or HND/HNC and being a 'Chartered Engineer or working towards professional registration' indicates a supportive environment for achieving recognized professional milestones, underscoring Bilfinger's investment in its engineers' long-term development.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Location Clarification: The job description mentions 'Location: Fareham' but later states 'join our team in Chesterfield.' Candidates should clarify the primary base location and any expectations for travel or relocation during the application process.
• High Responsibility & Accountability: This is a senior role demanding full technical responsibility for successful project delivery, including meeting budgetary and timescale targets. Candidates should be prepared for a challenging yet rewarding level of accountability.
• Dual Focus: Technical Expertise & Leadership: The role requires a strong balance between hands-on technical delivery (PLC/SCADA, design documentation, testing) and soft skills such as team supervision, mentoring, and collaborative project management.
• Continuous Learning Mindset: The desirable experience list is extensive, covering areas like MQTT, IoT, Historians, Virtualised platforms, and OT Cyber Security. While not all are essential, it signals a fast-paced environment where continuous learning and adaptability to new technologies are highly valued.
• Site Work & Travel: Involvement in 'site surveys,' 'site installation & commissioning,' and 'undertake observations, variation and reworks' implies a requirement for on-site presence and potential travel, which should be factored into your expectations.

Who Should Apply?

This role is ideal for a proactive and committed Senior System Engineer with a robust background in the full automation project lifecycle. If you thrive in dynamic, multi-industry environments, possess a blend of deep technical expertise and emerging leadership skills, and are eager to contribute to critical infrastructure while advancing your professional registration, Bilfinger UK offers a compelling platform for your next career move.

Embark on a journey where your skills in automation engineering will directly shape the future of diverse industrial landscapes, supported by a company dedicated to excellence and innovation.