Automation Project Engineer

Job Description

Job Title: Automation Project Engineer\n\nLocation: Manchester, UK\n\nDuration: 12-month contract\n\nIndustry: Oil & Gas / Petrochemical\n\nThis 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.\n\nOverview:\n\nAn 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.\n\nThis role is a hybrid of Project Engineer and Lead Automation Engineer responsibilities—requiring both project management and technical delivery capabilities.\n\nKey Responsibilities:\n\nLead and be accountable for the delivery, execution, and performance of automation projects including upgrades, migrations, and new installations.\nOversee multiple concurrent projects, such as:\nHoneywell DCS and FSC to Safety Manager migration\nPLC replacements (with various manufacturers)\nMaintain regular client interface, including bi-weekly visits to Phillips66 facilities.\nDetermine project requirements and develop comprehensive estimates (man-hours and materials) with input from Automation and C&I engineers.\nPrioritise activities and projects in line with business needs and available resources.\nDevelop and maintain project schedules and resource planning.\nProvide regular progress reports to portfolio management.\nContribute directly to projects when supervisory duties are reduced, including:\nWriting and checking project deliverables (technical specifications, I/O schedules, drawings)\nConducting site surveys to support estimates\nDeveloping standardised processes and templates for future use\n\nExperience & Requirements:\n\nExperience in automation project delivery within the oil, gas, petrochemical, or similar industries.\nStrong knowledge of DCS systems and Functional Safety (SIS) implementations.\nExperience working with various PLC platforms and their integration.\nProficient in project management methodologies and tools.\nStrong client management and communication skills.\nProven ability to lead and coordinate technical teams.\nAbility to develop accurate technical and commercial estimates.\nSkilled in resource planning and scheduling.\nCapable of writing detailed technical specifications and documentation.\n\nSkills & Attributes:\n\nClient-focused approach to project delivery.\nSelf-motivated and able to work independently or as part of a team.\nExcellent communication and presentation skills.\nDetail-oriented with strong organisational capabilities.\nStrong technical troubleshooting skills.\nAbility to manage and prioritise multiple demands and projects.\nProficient in technical writing and documentation.\n\nSeniority Level\n\nMid-Senior level\n\nIndustry\n\nOil and Gas\nServices for Renewable Energy\nAutomation Machinery Manufacturing\n\nEmployment Type\n\nContract\n\nJob Functions\n\nEngineering\nProject Management\n\nSkills\n\nResource Planning\nTechnical Specs\nPresentation Skills\nPlanning & Scheduling\nPresentations\nCommunication\nProgrammable Logic Controller (PLC)\nSupervisory Skills\nDistributed Control System (DCS)