Principal Software Engineer; PLCs

Location: Tadcaster, England, United Kingdom

Company: Bit recruit

Client /

Employer:

Occupop

Purpose of the Role:
To lead the software delivery for complex bespoke automation projects. The Principal Software Engineer ensures that software is implemented to the highest standards, guides engineers through the development and commissioning process, delegates technical tasks, and ensures compliance with Software Design Specifications (SDS) and company procedures.

• Lead and oversee software implementation for major automation projects.
• Create, review and validate SDS documents for accuracy and functional completeness.
• Delegate development tasks, monitor progress, and ensure standards are maintained across the project team.
• Conduct and lead SCRs for all major modules, ensuring clarity, quality, and traceability.
• Deliver software successfully through the commissioning phase for large or complex systems, coordinating software integration into the commissioning process.
• Act as the senior technical authority on projects, resolving issues, mentoring engineers, and supporting performance improvements.
• Work collaboratively, effectively, and efficiently across disciplines to ensure project success.
• Promote adherence to established development, documentation, and commissioning practices.

• Project-compliant software systems delivered to specification, standards and project time frames.
• Validated SCRs and approved documentation across team members.
• Fully commissioned systems with fully documented outcomes as per Mpac process.
• Delegated task tracking and technical mentoring.
• Travel to customer sites on occasion for Software support and solutions.

• Expert experience in control software development, including leading commissioning activities.
• Demonstrated experience leading software teams and projects from start to finish.
• Deep understanding of applying and validating SDS across project stages.
• Technical expertise in system‑level diagnostics, and safety compliance and integration.

• Experience coordinating with multi‑discipline teams during large system deliveries.
• Technical expertise in vision, robotics, or motion tuning.

• Expert‑level PLC and HMI development across multiple platforms.
• Skilled in overseeing commissioning and managing technical escalations.
• Proficient in SCR practices and SDS interpretation.
• Experience with advanced automation technologies (robotics, vision, data).

• Familiarity with functional safety, standards compliance, and software lifecycle management.
• Degree in Engineering, Software, or related discipline.

• Working relationships with:
  Mechanical & Electrical Engineering, Production and Build, Commissioning, Project Managers and Service (aftercare) team.