Senior Automation Engineer DCS (M/F/D)
Our client is a globally active manufacturer of specialty ingredients operating across industries such as food, fermentation, nutrition, and life sciences. The company is part of a large international group, while operating with a high degree of local autonomy at site level.
This decentralised structure gives employees significant freedom and ownership, combined with the stability, investment power and long‑term perspective of a global organisation. The environment is professional, technically strong and impact‑driven - individuals are encouraged to take responsibility and actively shape systems and standards.
As a DCS Engineer, you will play a key interface role between Automation, OT, IT and Security. You will be part of the process control / DCS team, responsible for operating, maintaining and further developing a plant‑wide Distributed Control System, while contributing to the expansion of a secure and future‑ready OT infrastructure.
Key Responsibilities
Process Control Systems & OT
Administration, configuration and continuous development of the Distributed Control System (DCS) - Yokogawa CENTUM VP
Support of remote I/O architectures and production data acquisition systems
Installation, configuration and integration of data acquisition systems into the office IT environment
Acting as the technical point of contact for all DCS / PLS‑related topics on site
IT & OT Infrastructure
Administration of Windows Server and Active Directory environments within OT (Windows Server 2016-2025)
Operation of virtualised environments (Hyper‑V, optionally VMware)
1st and 2nd level support for DCS and OT‑related IT systems
Further development of OT security concepts, IIoT approaches and Industry 4.0 solutions
Collaboration & Coordination
Technical leadership and coordination of DCS engineers and external service providers
Participation in automation and investment projects as the lead contact for DCS and OT infrastructure
Close cooperation with production, engineering, HSE, and external partners
Additional Responsibilities
Involvement in strategic automation and investment projects
Active contribution to the OT security strategy
Participation in an on‑call rota for remote fault resolution
Your Profile
Background & Experience
Degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, IT, Applied Computer Science or similar
Several years' experience in process automation
Strong hands‑on experience with DCS / PLS systems, ideally Yokogawa CENTUM VP
Fluent German and good English skills are an advantage
Technical Skills
Industrial Ethernet protocols (e.g. Modbus TCP/IP, Ethernet/IP)
OPC data communication and production data acquisition
Solid understanding of the ISO/OSI model (Layers 1-3)
Programming according to DIN EN 61131
IT & Infrastructure Know‑how
Windows Server 2016-2025
Virtualisation (Hyper‑V, VMware)
Failover clustering and network infrastructure
Personal Qualities
Structured, independent and solution‑oriented working style
Experience in project work and coordinating external contractors
Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset
High level of responsibility, safety awareness and curiosity to learn
What Our Client Offers
Stable, long‑term role in a process‑driven industrial environment
Competitive compensation package
Flexible working hours
Opportunities for further training and professional development
Partial remote working options
Modern site with good transport connections
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your resume and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organizations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.
That's why we recommend registering your CV so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.
Yes, we help with CV and interview preparation. From customised support on how to optimise your resume to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.