Senior PLC Software Engineer

Overview

We’re looking for a proactive and detail-oriented PLC Software Engineer to join our engineering team at Mallaghan Engineering. In this role, you’ll design and implement control software for bespoke industrial systems, driving performance, reliability, and innovation across our automation platforms. Reporting to the Electrical Engineering Manager, you’ll collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate PLCs into complex control architectures, including Telematics and HMI interfaces.

You’ll take ownership of system programming, testing, and optimization—ensuring our Ground Support Equipment (GSE) meets the highest standards of safety and efficiency. This is a fantastic opportunity to apply your technical expertise, contribute to high-impact engineering projects, and help deliver the next generation of smart, high-performance industrial solutions.

• Understand and transform the desired vehicle functionality into functional software specifications and create software architecture using tools like CoDeSYS or Danfoss Plus 1.
• Define electronic systems and select hardware platforms to deliver the technical solution, considering environmental and cost targets.
• Ensure robust and reliable ECU communication using protocols such as SAE J1939.
• Read and interpret electronic schematic, wiring diagrams and component data sheets.
• Ensure compliance with global safety regulations and standards in electronics system design.
• Ensure design for manufacture/repair is considered, both relating to build of the programming and parameter configuration of selected solution.
• Integrate system diagnostics and remote monitoring capabilities (onboard/over-the-air).
• Apply model-based design and rapid prototyping.
• Follow industry-standard software development processes (e.g., V-Model, Functional Safety and security).
• Adhere to rigorous coding and documentation standards for traceability and maintenance.
• Maintain complete documentation of all designs, revisions, and related updates.
• Supporting multiple projects and provide software project time plans.
• Development of technical specifications, Group Electrical Standards, and instructions.
• Promote reuse of software components and standardization across the vehicle range.
• Perform vehicle-level testing, including HIL and SIL testing, fault insertion, and functional validation.
• Use vehicle interface tools such as Vector CANalyzer, CANfox, etc.

• Degree qualified in electronic engineering, software engineering or related discipline – or equivalent experience.
• A minimum of 5 years’ experience within Tier 1 or OE sectors (on highway or off highway) within system engineering or software development.
• Experience of system integration testing at a vehicle level, taking electronic systems from concept through to delivery.
• Experience of project delivery.
• Proficient with Co De Sys , MATLAB, Simulink, and State flow in embedded systems.
• Understanding of functional safety.
• Knowledge of different communication protocols (CAN/Ethernet/CAN Open).
• Working knowledge of software development techniques (V Model and functional safety).
• Ability to adhere to company processes relating to internal and external procedures and sign-off requirements.
• Strong desire to learn from working on differing system architectures and coding techniques.
• Experience of hardware in the loop (HIL) testing and software in loop (SIL) – functional test, fault insertion testing.
• A good understanding of design verification processes.
• Comfortable working in the workshop and field on prototype vehicle development and testing.
• Comfortable supporting and completing cause and effect analysis – Risk Assessments, FMEA, 8D.
• Experience using vehicle interface toolkits - Vector, CANalyzer, CANfox.