SCADA/MES/IoT

What does a SCADA engineer do?

A SCADA engineer focuses on designing, configuring, and deploying supervisory control and data acquisition systems. These systems help manufacturing and industrial businesses better monitor and control their operations.

What should I do to start a career in the PLC SCADA industry?

To begin a career in the PLC SCADA industry, you will require a relevant degree in either computer science, electrical engineering, or a related manufacturing discipline. Undertaking a placement or internship in an appropriate role will also enable you to gain experience to begin a career in the industry.

Is it good to specialise in SCADA systems for future jobs?

Manufacturing and industrial businesses widely use SCADA systems. Specialising in SCADA systems for future jobs can be both beneficial and risky. Specialising in SCADA systems allows you to gain more experience utilising and overcoming problems.

However, focusing purely on SCADA systems limits the scope of systems you can work with. Other systems alongside SCADA, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), are rapidly becoming popular. A future job may require experience/knowledge in additional systems besides SCADA.

How can a PLC SCADA internship work get you a job?

Undertaking an internship or work placement provides you with relevant experience for a role as a SCADA engineer. Additionally, internships help you develop and learn skills essential for working in SCADA, such as data acquisition and logic building.

What is it like to be a SCADA engineer?

A SCADA engineer has several duties and responsibilities as part of their role. These include:

• Monitoring databases.
• Designing control systems.
• Installation and configuration of servers and equipment.
• PLC troubleshooting.
• Setting up and monitoring the security of SCADA systems.
• Data communication monitoring.

How much does a PLC/SCADA programmer earn?

A PLC/SCADA programmer can earn around £24 per hour, with a salary of £47,000 per year.

Will PLC/SCADA courses help me in getting a good job?

Yes, undertaking PLC/SCADA courses gives you a good understanding of these systems. Good knowledge of such systems is essential for becoming a SCADA technician. Having a relevant degree is also necessary.

What is the average salary for a SCADA engineer?

The average salary for a PLC/SCADA programmer in the UK is around £47,000 per year. Depending on the job, company, and experience, this can increase to over £60,000 per year for senior director roles. An entry-level position in SCADA typically starts at around £40,000 per year.

What is an MES application?

A Manufacturing Execution System (or MES) is software used during the manufacturing process to ensure quality and efficiency. MES is systematically and proactively enforced to improve the manufacturing process through monitoring, documenting, tracking, and controlling.

What is the demand for SCADA engineers?

With the automation industry growing rapidly, there is much demand and opportunity for SCADA engineers. A shift towards smart manufacturing and digital transformation will also likely increase demand.

What software skills are required for SCADA automation engineers?

SCADA automation engineers use various software as part of their job roles. The most widely used software includes Matlab, Labview, Arduino, AutoCAD, and programming software such as Visual Studio.

What are the main challenges faced by SCADA engineers?

SCADA engineers will face many challenges, hence the need for problem-solving skills. Some of the most widely experienced challenges faced by SCADA engineers include the following:

• Network issues
• Software issues
• Security
• Reliability
• Data management
• Application redundancy

What roles provide the best salaries in PLC/SCADA?

SCADA/PLC roles that require experience in programming, system integration, and troubleshooting, tend to provide higher salaries. The roles that command more competitive salaries include positions such as Automation Engineer, PLC Programmer, SCADA Engineer, and Control Systems Integrator.

What is the best career in SCADA and PLC?

SCADA/PLC has many career opportunities and roles that allow flexibility depending on skills, experience, and interests. Some of the best careers you could obtain in SCADA/PLC include:

• Software development
• AutoCAD design engineer
• Testing engineer
• PLC programmer
• Plant commissioning engineer
• SCADA programming engineer

Can ECE students get a job by learning PLC or SCADA?

Yes, there is the potential for Electrical and Communication Engineering students to obtain a job through learning PLC or SCADA. Learning such control systems improves your job prospects across many different industries.

Will PLC/SCADA courses help me obtain good job?

Investing in PLC/SCADA courses can be a game-changer for your job prospects. With industries across the board relying heavily on automation, there’s a growing demand for skilled professionals who can design, program, and maintain these systems. This specialization gives you a significant edge in the job market, making you a highly sought-after candidate. As a result, you can expect not only a competitive edge when applying for jobs but also potentially lucrative salaries due to the critical role PLC/SCADA plays in keeping industrial operations running smoothly.

How can a PLC/SCADA internship be used to obtain a full time job?

A PLC/SCADA internship might not be a golden ticket to a permanent position, but it’s a springboard to launch your career. The hands-on experience and industry knowledge you gain are invaluable assets when applying for real-world jobs in automation and control.