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

Mid-Senior level

Industry

Oil and Gas
Services for Renewable Energy
Automation Machinery Manufacturing

Employment Type

Contract

Job Functions

Engineering
Project Management

Skills

Resource Planning
Technical Specs
Presentation Skills
Planning & Scheduling
Presentations
Communication
Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)
Supervisory Skills
Distributed Control System (DCS)