Control Systems Engineer

Control Systems Engineer

Edinburgh or Orkney (hybrid working)

About Orbital

Orbital Marine Power is a visionary Scottish renewable energy company focused on the global application of its pioneering floating turbine technology that can supply predictable power from tidal streams and ocean currents, every day, regardless of the weather. The technology has already been proven at full scale, with the company operating the world’s most powerful tidal turbine since July 2021. This provides invaluable operational insight while clearly demonstrating the technology’s commercial viability. With global interest in tidal energy accelerating, Orbital is expanding its team to support larger-scale manufacture, multi turbine delivery and the next stage of commercial growth.

The company recently secured an additional £7m investment and won a major new project in Canada that will see at least six turbines deployed in one of the world’s most promising locations for tidal energy generation. Orbital enters this next phase with strong momentum and a clear pathway to larger deployments and long term expansion.

What this role is about

You will join Orbital’s Control & Instrumentation team to support the design, development and implementation of the control systems that underpin safe, remote and highly reliable turbine operation. This role blends software development, instrumentation design and hands on engineering, with involvement across the full lifecycle of control hardware and software delivery. It suits someone who enjoys working at the intersection of automation, real time systems and multidisciplinary engineering.

What you will be doing

• Supporting the design and implementation of turbine control system hardware and software, working closely with the Control & Instrumentation Manager and senior engineers.

• Assisting with installation and commissioning of PLCs, embedded PCs, I/O modules, control cabinets and associated control hardware.

• Specifying instrumentation and communications hardware/software, overseeing onboard installation and integration into the wider control system.

• Designing, implementing and testing control routines along with HMI/SCADA interfaces for safe, remote turbine operation.

• Working with mechanical, electrical, hydraulic and communications engineers to ensure seamless control system interfaces across all subsystems.

• Coordinating with external suppliers and contractors for equipment procurement and specialist services.

What you will bring

• A degree (or higher education) in a control related discipline.

• Experience designing, installing and commissioning control systems (minimum 2 years for Engineer level; 5+ for Senior).

• Strong teamworking and communication skills.

• Experience with object oriented programming languages, Visual Studio and Git based software control.

• Knowledge of industrial communication protocols such as EtherCAT, OPC or Modbus.

Useful but not essential:

• Knowledge of Beckhoff/TwinCAT environments and SCADA systems.

• Experience with control systems in marine renewables or wind energy.

• Familiarity with IEC 61131 3 standards and industrial network design/maintenance.

Why the role matters and why it’s interesting

Orbital is entering an exciting phase of multi turbine deployment and scaling, and the control system lies at the heart of safe and efficient turbine operation. In this role, you will help shape the next generation of turbine control architecture, influence how Orbital’s systems evolve, and contribute to engineering challenges that span automation, real time systems, power generation and environmental constraints.You will work closely with specialists across the organisation, gaining hands on exposure to complex offshore renewable systems while helping deliver technology with global significance.

Interested in taking things further?

If you want more information or would like to discuss your suitability, please apply or contact Eden Scott in confidence at anita.galbraith@edenscott.com. Even if you are not actively looking or do not have an updated CV, you are very welcome to get in touch for an initial conversation.Eden Scott is working exclusively on this appointment. Any direct or 3rd party applications to Orbital Marine Power will be directed to Eden Scott for consideration.

Remuneration Package

Orbital offers a competitive salary based on experience, a robust benefits package designed to support the wellbeing, security and long term growth of Orbital employees, including private medical care and generous holiday allowance, and excellent opportunities for professional growth as the business continues to expand.