Principal Control System Engineer

What Are We Looking For?

Through our successful organic growth, RSE is looking to bring on a Principal Control System Engineer  to lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced control systems for industrial processes, machinery, and automation systems. This role serves as a technical authority, overseeing large-scale projects, mentoring junior engineers, and ensuring compliance with engineering standards, safety, and industry regulations.

Some of Your Key Duties Include:

• Lead the design, specification, and integration of control systems including PLCs, DCS, SCADA, HMIs, and safety systems.
• Develop control system architectures and strategies that meet performance, reliability, and safety requirements.
• Oversee the development of control logic, programming, configuration, and commissioning of control equipment.
• Conduct system risk assessments and ensure compliance with IEC, NFPA, ISA, and other relevant standards (e.g., IEC 61511, ISA-88, ISA-95).
• Interface with multidisciplinary teams (mechanical, electrical, process) to ensure integration and performance.
• Review and approve control system documentation, such as P&IDs, I/O lists, control narratives, loop diagrams, and test protocols.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior and mid-level control engineers.
• Participate in or lead FAT (Factory Acceptance Testing), SAT (Site Acceptance Testing), and commissioning activities.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex control system issues in development, commissioning, and operational stages.
• Support project management activities including budgeting, scheduling, resource planning, and vendor coordination.

What Do You Need?

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• 10+ years of relevant experience in control systems engineering.
• Proficiency in control system platforms (e.g., Allen-Bradley/Rockwell, Siemens, ABB, Honeywell, DeltaV, Schneider).
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP, OPC, etc.).
• Experience in regulated industries (e.g., oil & gas, power, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, or manufacturing).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and documentation skills.
• Strong leadership and communication abilities.
• Full UK Driving Licence

Who Are We?

RSE is a trusted clean water technology company, developing market-leading products and solutions for purifying drinking water, recycling wastewater, and cleaning water in industrial processes. We are disrupting the water sector, delivering water treatment products, technologies, and services to clients across the UK. RSE provides offsite modular build solutions using a low-carbon approach compared to traditional construction methods and our unique offering to the market focuses on innovation, efficiency, and excellence.

Established in 1982, RSE has grown into one of the most prominent MEICA engineering businesses in the UK water industry. We have created a complete in-house and full-service capability from project inception through to design, fabrication, and delivery by means of installation and commissioning. We additionally have one of the largest servicing and maintenance teams in the market, to ensure we’re on hand for all our clients’ needs.

Our service offering presents industry-leading innovative solutions and our dedicated staff play a key role in delivering our sustainability and wider business goals. With over 2000 staff across our group of companies, our strategic ambition will see the business continue to grow as we expand our operations and diversify our products. One of RSE’s key focuses is driving servant leadership and giving our people the opportunity and responsibility to take an entrepreneurial approach in their career development.

What RSE Offer

To build successful teams and drive the level of quality that RSE is renowned for, we know we need the best people in the industry. Not only do we require the relevant skillsets, but we also need people with the right attitude and mentality to thrive and grow in an innovative and fast-paced environment. At RSE, you’ll be given every opportunity to set the path of your own career through our Business Streams and work within dynamic teams that will require you to rise to the challenge of working for a market leader.              

• Industry-leading salary based on your experience.
• Car Allowance
• Private Healthcare (Personal).
• Holiday Allowance of 31 days per year, rising to 33 days per year after 2 years’ service.
• Holiday Buy / Sell Scheme
• Company Pension Scheme
• Cycle to Work
• Discounted National Gym Membership
• Professional Fees Paid
• Employee Discount Platform
• EV/Hybrid Car Lease Scheme
• Access to our network of health professionals including mental health champions and Occupational Health Nurse.

In a flourishing sector where there are vast career opportunities available, we believe by leading transformation in the industry our offering to the market means our people have the space to thrive.

If you’re interested in a career with a company that will harness your skills and provide you with the support to create your own future within the water industry, apply now.