R&D Control System Engineer

🔧 Control Systems R&D Engineer

📍 Adlington, UK | JBT Marel (Proseal)

About the Role

This is a hands-on, project-based engineering role working on bespoke packaging machinery. You’ll take ownership from concept to completion — delivering cutting-edge control systems and ensuring outstanding customer experiences.

Key Responsibilites

• Develop PLC, HMI, motion control & safety software
• Create electrical schematics and technical documentation
• Lead projects through full lifecycle: design ➝ coding ➝ testing ➝ commissioning ➝ training
• Collaborate with customers, suppliers, and cross-functional teams
• Perform fault-finding, upgrades, and on-site commissioning (UK & international travel)
• Provide remote and telephone support to customers and teams
• Explore and integrate new technologies and innovations

Required Qualifications & Experience

Essential

• Strong PLC programming experience
• Multi-axis servo motion control expertise
• HMI development experience
• Solid understanding of electrical & mechanical engineering principles
• Knowledge of functional safety regulations
• Degree / HNC / HND in a relevant field

Desirable (but not essential)

• Mitsubishi control systems experience
• IoT skills (HTML, databases, high-level coding, cybersecurity)
• Familiarity with TCP/IP, Modbus, OPC UA
• Project management experience
• Knowledge of CE, UL, Machinery Directive, ISO/EN 13849-1
• Experience within the food industry

Personal Attributes

• Positive, proactive mindset
• Strong problem-solver who thrives on technical challenges
• Comfortable working under pressure and to deadlines
• Excellent communicator with a customer-first approach

Why Join JBT Marel?

This isn’t just another engineering role — it’s your chance to:

• Work on innovative, real-world machinery
• Contribute to a more sustainable, efficient food industry
• Be part of a supportive, down-to-earth team
• See the impact of your work across the UK and beyond
• Grow your skills in a fast-paced, forward-thinking environment

Shape the Future of Food

At JBT Marel, we’re not just supporting the food industry — we’re helping to transform it. As a global leader in food technology, we design and deliver innovative solutions that enable food producers worldwide to operate more efficiently, maintain the highest quality standards, and move towards a more sustainable future.

Our Adlington site is a key part of that global impact. Here, you’ll be part of a collaborative, forward-thinking team where ideas are valued, ownership is encouraged, and contributions truly matter. We combine technical excellence with a practical, hands-on approach, creating an environment where people can thrive and make a real difference.

Everything we do is guided by our core values:

Create with Collaboration. Serve with Integrity. Grow with Excellence. Advance with Innovation.

These principles shape not only how we work — but how we succeed, together.