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Lead Engineering & Technical Recruiter | 01925 909259 | diane.jones@firstrg.com

Job Title: Automation Project Engineer

Location: Manchester, UK

Duration: 12-month contract

Industry: Oil & Gas / Petrochemical

This position combines responsibilities of a Project Engineer—managing the delivery, execution, and performance of Automation projects focusing on delivering the technical scope of automation work.

Overview:

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Automation Project Engineer to act as the focal point for Automation activities on a long-standing Master Service Agreement. This position is based in Manchester and offers the chance to be a key contributor in the delivery and execution of critical automation projects, ensuring all technical, commercial, and schedule requirements are met.

This role is a hybrid of Project Engineer and Lead Automation Engineer responsibilities—requiring both project management and technical delivery capabilities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and be accountable for the delivery, execution, and performance of automation projects including upgrades, migrations, and new installations.
• Oversee multiple concurrent projects, such as:
• Honeywell DCS and FSC to Safety Manager migration
• PLC replacements (with various manufacturers)
• Maintain regular client interface, including bi-weekly visits to Phillips66 facilities.
• Determine project requirements and develop comprehensive estimates (man-hours and materials) with input from Automation and C&I engineers.
• Prioritise activities and projects in line with business needs and available resources.
• Develop and maintain project schedules and resource planning.
• Provide regular progress reports to portfolio management.
• Contribute directly to projects when supervisory duties are reduced, including:
• Writing and checking project deliverables (technical specifications, I/O schedules, drawings)
• Conducting site surveys to support estimates
• Developing standardised processes and templates for future use

Experience & Requirements:

• Experience in automation project delivery within the oil, gas, petrochemical, or similar industries.
• Strong knowledge of DCS systems and Functional Safety (SIS) implementations.
• Experience working with various PLC platforms and their integration.
• Proficient in project management methodologies and tools.
• Strong client management and communication skills.
• Proven ability to lead and coordinate technical teams.
• Ability to develop accurate technical and commercial estimates.
• Skilled in resource planning and scheduling.
• Capable of writing detailed technical specifications and documentation.

Skills & Attributes:

• Client-focused approach to project delivery.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently or as part of a team.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Detail-oriented with strong organisational capabilities.
• Strong technical troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to manage and prioritise multiple demands and projects.
• Proficient in technical writing and documentation.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Contract

Job function

• Job function

  Engineering and Project Management

• Industries

  Oil and Gas, Services for Renewable Energy, and Automation Machinery Manufacturing

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