The control systems job market is currently experiencing rapid growth, mainly due to advances in technology and the rise of smart manufacturing (Industry 4.0). As the job market continues to evolve, what are the current trends in control systems recruitment and what are the key industries employing control system professionals?
Current trends in control systems recruitment
Several trends are helping shape and transform the control systems job market. The most prevalent of these trends include:
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Not only does artificial intelligence help revolutionise control systems jobs, but it’s also having an impact on recruitment.
As artificial intelligence is utilised more frequently in the day to day running of businesses, there is a growing need for control system engineers with specific skills and experience. Those seeking a control systems job should now have familiarity with artificial intelligence systems.
Companies will seek engineers with experience and expertise in developing AI algorithms, predictive analysis systems, and machine learning models. Such experience helps companies to improve processes and improve system efficiency.
Internet of Things (IoT)
Another current trend that is helping transform control systems recruitment is the Internet of Things (IoT). IoT consists of a network of connected devices, appliances, or other physical objects that collect and share data.
IoT is helping to shape both control systems jobs and recruitment for such roles. Connecting devices and systems into a singular network helps improve automation and control. Due to the technical nature of IoT networks, specialist skills and technical expertise is required.
For companies to benefit from the game-changing properties of IoT, there is increasing demand for system engineers who can utilise and implement such systems. By doing so, businesses can benefit from more efficient processes, usage of predictive analysis, and maintenance strategies.
Industry 4.0
With the rapid industry changes and technological advances, we are now experiencing the fourth industrial revolution (or industry 4.0). This significant transformation in manufacturing is being driven by AI, machine learning, automation, human-machine interaction, improved robotics, and advanced engineering.
As a result, there is growing demand for control system engineers who are proficient in these new skillsets.
Growing importance of soft skills
With the implementation of new control systems technologies and automated processes, there is a growing demand for skilled engineers to design, create, implement, and monitor control systems.
However, a big challenge in the recruitment sector for control system engineers is a lack of soft skills. While many candidates may possess relevant qualifications or technical knowledge, there is a significant lack of soft skills in the job market.
A wide variety of soft skills is necessary for a control system engineering role. Companies are on the lookout for candidates who possess the following skills:
- Communication, including verbal and written.
- Problem-solving.
- Attention-to-detail.
- Creativity and design.
- Leadership and teamwork.
- Adaptability and flexibility.
Candidates with a variety of soft skills and strong technical knowledge are highly sought after within the control systems job market.
Job growth and demand for control systems professionals
Over the next decade, there is expected to be 6% growth in the demand for qualified control engineers. As a result, the opportunity and demand for control systems professionals will continue to rise. If you want to enter this growing market, what’s the best way to build a career as a control systems engineer?
Certification
Control systems engineering will require certain certifications and qualifications. At the very least, a degree in a relevant engineering discipline is required, and you’ll need a strong understanding of electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and computer science. More senior positions may require a postgraduate degree, such as a Master’s in an engineering discipline.
There is also a wide range of certifications and accreditations that can help. Gaining a relevant engineering certificate or accreditation from a professional body, such as the IET, can provide many benefits to a control systems engineer seeking to grow their career.
Some of the benefits a certification or accreditation can provide include:
- Showcases your expertise.
- Enhances your job prospects and career advancement opportunities.
- Ensures compliance working in certain specialist industries.
- Grows your professional network.
The range of certifications and accreditations a control system engineer can gain include:
- Institute of Engineering and Technology accredited certifications.
- Institute of Measurement and Control accredited certifications.
- Certified Controls Engineer certification.
- International Council on Systems Engineering professional registration.
- Associated Systems Engineering Professional certification.
- Certified Systems Engineering Professional certification.
- Expert Systems Engineering Professional certification.
Showcasing any relevant qualifications, certifications, and accreditations on your CV is one tip for improving your CV.
Technical skills
Control systems engineers will require a range of technical skills that are essential to the job. While soft skills are important, a candidate’s technical skills ensure they can fulfil the duties of their role.
Some of the technical skills necessary for advancing in a control systems engineering career include:
- Programming and understanding of coding languages.
- Experience using specialist software, such as MATLAB.
- Industrial and industry knowledge.
- Specialist systems knowledge, such as SCADA and PLC.
- Data analysis and troubleshooting skills.
Growing your professional network
Growing your professional network is another method for advancing a career in control systems. This can be done via online platforms, events, and conferences, and can have many benefits including:
- Opening new job opportunities.
- Grows your business connections.
- Provides career advice and support.
- Gives you new ideas and perspectives.
- Develop long-term professional relationships.
Key industries employing control systems engineers
Given the large scope in control systems engineering, many industries now require engineers to enhance and automate business processes. As control systems technology continues to evolve businesses are increasingly looking to benefit from the adoption of such systems.
As more key industries adopt control systems technology, there is a greater opportunity for professionals to find a role in an industry that matches their knowledge, experience, or interest. Some of the key industries employing control systems engineers include:
Industrial
With the rise of Industry 4.0, industrial automation is one of the growing industries seeking control systems engineers. As automation continues to be adopted by businesses, the demand for such professionals continues to grow.
Energy and utilities
The energy and utilities industry has a significant reliance on control systems, which means professionals in this industry are highly sought after. As many energy and utility companies switch towards greener and more eco-friendly processes, there is a greater need for control systems engineers who can design, implement, and maintain advanced control systems to drive this industry switch.
Pharmaceuticals
Pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and biotechnology also have a demand for control systems engineers. These sectors implement control systems for a wide variety of reasons, including lab equipment, medical devices, and bioprocessing. The growing need for professionals in this industry is driven by fast-changing technological advancements, alongside the need for accuracy and precision.
Automotive
The automotive and transport industry continues to adopt and implement automation systems into manufacturing processes to streamline operations and improve efficiency. As a result, the automotive industry requires control systems engineers to implement and maintain automation control systems.
Aerospace
The aerospace and defence industries rely heavily on control systems engineers. Control systems are vital for successful navigation, flight control, and mission systems. As with other industries, the rapid growth and advances in technology keep this industry a strong contender for control systems professionals.
Petrochemicals
Petrochemicals is another key industry employing control systems professionals. This industry relies heavily on specialist and technical control systems that control complex and potentially dangerous processes. This industry places high emphasis on efficiency, safety, and compliance with regulations.
Water
The water industry is one more key industry that employs control systems professionals. Water and wastewater treatment rely on control systems to manage processes. Sustainable water management, alongside environmental regulations, requires control system professionals with industry knowledge to design the systems vital for efficient and reliable water and wastewater treatment processes.
The control systems job market is rapidly growing, and this looks set to continue for the foreseeable future. The advances in technology and the growing need for a range of vital technical skills, combined with the variety of key industries employing control systems professionals, provide many opportunities for advancing a career in the sector.
Further Reading
- Control Systems Recruitment – The Ultimate Guide
- Industry Specific Control Systems Roles
- Advanced Control Systems Technologies
- Professional Development for Control Systems Careers
- Control Systems Engineer Jobs
- Control Systems Engineering Jobs North West
- Control Systems Engineering Jobs North East
- Control Systems Engineering Jobs Midlands