As the control systems job market continues to grow, the demand for experienced and skilled control system engineers is on the rise across a wide range of industries.
Understanding Industry-Specific Control Systems
Control systems use control loops to manage, command, direct, and regulate devices or systems, and are used in many different industries and disciplines. The benefits and improvements that control systems provide help improve business productivity and operational efficiency. They also help to reduce human error while eliminating redundant and expensive manual controls.
Businesses operating from multiple sites can also benefit from the remote monitoring and management that control systems provide. Implementing effective control systems ensures each site operates unilaterally.
Many different industries use control systems for their processes, including:
- Automotive engineering to automate and improve the efficiency of engineering processes.
- Aerospace engineering to help control aerospace systems for navigation and trajectories.
- Manufacturing to aid assembly lines for improved productivity and focussed processes.
- Chemical processing to achieve a desired output while ensuring efficient and stable plant operations.
- Robotics for programming robotic and automation systems to perform specific tasks for greater accuracy and precision.
- Energy for controlling power flow and maintaining stable, but efficient operational systems.
As the requirements and specifications for each industry will differ, tailored approaches to control systems are required. Various industrial control system types have different features and specifications, each suited to certain industry-specific demands.
Roles in Manufacturing Control Systems
Automation engineer
An automation engineer works within the manufacturing sector. They are responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining automation systems in manufacturing plants.
Process control engineer
Process control engineers are responsible for optimising manufacturing processes using control systems, which helps to enhance their reliability and efficiency.
PLC programmer
PLC programmers specialise in programming and troubleshooting logic controllers (or PLCs), necessary components in manufacturing industries.
Roles in Energy Control Systems
SCADA engineer
A SCADA engineer specialises in supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, which monitor and control energy infrastructures.
Power systems engineer
Power systems engineers design and maintain control systems used in the power industry, including those for power generation, transmission, and distribution.
Renewable energy engineer
A renewable energy engineer (or renewable energy systems analyst) analyses and optimises control systems for renewable energy, such as wind and solar power.
Roles in Aerospace Control Systems
Flight controls
Flight control engineers develop and maintain control systems used in aircraft. This is essential for stability and manoeuvrability.
Avionics engineer
Avionics engineers focus on integrating control systems and aircraft electronics, which are necessary for navigation, communication, and aircraft safety.
Guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) engineer
Guidance, navigation, and control engineers help design algorithms and control systems to guide spacecraft and missiles.
Common Skills and Responsibilities
While control systems are used in various industries and disciplines, some common skills and responsibilities are vital in control systems recruitment. These include:
- Programming language proficiency, such as Python, ladder logic, C, and C++.
- Industry-specific regulations and standards knowledge, including ISO 9001 and IEC 61508.
- Analytical and problem-solving skills for optimising and troubleshooting control systems.
- Strong teamwork and communication skills to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.
- Understanding network protocols, such as IP, TCP, FTP, and UDP, and how to install and manage networks.
Being familiar with industry-specific control system roles is vital for professionals seeking to advance their careers. Whatever the industry, control system professionals are vital for operational efficiency, safety, and innovation.
Also, understanding the diverse responsibilities and skills needed for these roles allows control system professionals to expand their careers. This ensures career development that is effective and meaningful to their specific industry.
Further Reading
- Control Systems Recruitment – The Ultimate Guide
- Control Systems Job Market
- 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