Application Engineer

The Applications Engineer designs and delivers digital solutions for manufacturing environments. This role sits at the intersection of Operational Technology (OT) and Information Technology (IT), developing applications and integrations that connect shop-floor systems to enterprise platforms. You will analyse client requirements, architect scalable solutions, and implement secure, high-performance systems that improve operational efficiency, visibility, and data-driven decision-making. This is a hands-on engineering role requiring strong technical capability, structured thinking, and the ability to operate across multidisciplinary teams. Key Responsibilities 1. Requirements & Solution Design Engage stakeholders to gather business, operational, and technical requirements across OT and IT environments. Develop clear technical specifications and solution designs. Ensure solutions account for networking, cybersecurity, data governance, and operational constraints. 2. Application Development Design, develop, configure, deploy, and maintain industrial software applications. Ensure solutions are scalable, secure, maintainable, and aligned with engineering standards. 3. SCADA & HMI Development Develop HMI screens and SCADA logic. Integrate data from PLCs, historians, databases, and IIoT platforms. Apply sound usability and operational design principles. 4. Database & Data Management Design and maintain database schemas and data models. Develop optimized SQL queries. Ensure data integrity, performance, and reliability across SQL (and relevant NoSQL) environments. 5. System Integration Design and implement APIs and messaging interfaces between: PLC/DCS systems IIoT platforms MOM/MES systems ERP systems Analytics platforms Apply appropriate protocols (e.g., REST, MQTT, OPC UA). Ensure secure, resilient, and interoperable integrations. 6. Architecture & Deployment Support Contribute to OT/IT system architecture and data flow design. Support deployment planning including: Server environments Networking Redundancy and backup strategies Long-term maintainability 7. Cybersecurity & Compliance Apply secure coding and integration practices. Implement appropriate access control and secure communication protocols. Align solutions with relevant cybersecurity standards and guidelines. 8. Testing & Quality Assurance Develop and execute structured test plans across: Application logic SCADA components Databases Integrations Identify and resolve defects. Protect operational continuity during changes and releases. 9. Support & Documentation Provide proactive technical support and troubleshooting. Maintain accurate documentation covering: System configurations Architecture diagrams Integration points Project deliverables 10. Professional Development Continuously build knowledge in: Industrial automation IIoT and smart manufacturing Software engineering practices Industrial networking Cybersecurity standards Performance Metrics Billable Utilisation Customer Satisfaction (CSAT) Delivery Efficiency (Hours Saved vs Estimates) Professional Development Achievement Minimum Qualifications Bachelors degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field. Proficiency in Python, C#, Java, and SQL. Valid drivers license and willingness to travel. Experience Required 2+ years experience in industrial automation or industrial software. Practical experience with at least one industrial platform (PLC, SCADA, DCS, or similar). Exposure to system integration involving databases, APIs, or messaging protocols. Experience working in industrial sectors such as FMCG, Mining, Water, or Manufacturing. Experience collaborating within multidisciplinary engineering teams. Preferred Competencies Exposure to IIoT and cyber-physical systems (edge/cloud concepts). Familiarity with: OPC UA MQTT REST APIs Working knowledge of networking fundamentals (IP addressing, VLANs, secure communication). Awareness of IEC 62443 or industrial cybersecurity principles. Familiarity with ISA-95 or ISO 9001 environments. Interest in DevOps / DevSecOps practices in industrial software. Core Technical Skills Programming & Development Python, C#, or Java SQL and structured development practices SCADA & Industrial Systems HMI development PLC/DCS integration Database Design Relational database modelling Query optimisation Data integrity management Integration & APIs REST, MQTT, OPC UA or equivalent Industrial system interoperability Testing & Debugging Structured validation and troubleshooting across OT and IT layers Documentation Clear and structured technical documentation Industrial Networking IP addressing Secure communication fundamentals Industrial connectivity considerations