Senior PLC Safety Engineer

Senior PLC Safety Engineer | PLC Controls | Hybrid | Athens

Introduction:

Ocado Technology is changing the way the world shops using advanced Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Robotics, Big Data, Cloud and IoT. We develop the innovative software and hardware systems that power Ocado.com, as well as the unique ‘Ocado Smart Platform’ which is being implemented by ambitious retailers across the world from Europe to America, Asia and beyond.

Ocado Technology - Greece (acquisition): https://www.myrmex-inc.com/blog/19

Our R&D department is based in Athens, Greece, where a team of brilliant engineers are developing disruptive material handling systems for the online grocery industry and other retail verticals. We pioneer innovative order fulfilment solutions and last-mile delivery business models tailored for retailers and supply chain-intensive sectors. Our mission is to assist them in overcoming the challenges inherent in modernising their systems and processes to effectively address complex industry issues. Some of the most innovative retailers globally have already partnered with us, and we are delivering products and services for them.

If you are excited about the cross-section where machines meet humans, about the future of work, retail and supply chains, and want to help transform the European logistics industry via Greek technologies, we are interested in getting to know you.

About the Role

Based in our Athens development centre, you will drive the development of Siemens and Beckhoff functional safety architectures for our Peripheral & Mobile Robotics department. Working within a collaborative team, you will ensure complex automated machinery meets international safety standards while maintaining peak operational performance.

Your role spans the project lifecycle, from designing safety-critical logic to supporting global commissioning. You will create robust safety functions for complex sub-systems, ensuring our material handling technologies remain compliant and reliable.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and program safety-related PLC control systems using Siemens TIA Portal and Beckhoff TwinCAT.
• Develop safety PLC logic in accordance with functional safety standards including IEC 61508, ISO 13849, and IEC 62061.
• Create, verify, and validate safety functions such as light curtains, guard interlocks, and emergency stops.
• Conduct and review risk assessments and hazard analyses to ensure compliance with the Machinery Directive.
• Document and maintain Safety Requirement Specifications (SRS) and comprehensive validation test plans.
• Support factory and site acceptance testing (FAT/SAT) for new safety systems worldwide.
• Troubleshoot and optimise control and safety logic during the commissioning phase.
• Support the integration of safety systems with SCADA, HMI, and other automation platforms.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including electrical and mechanical engineers, to ensure cohesive system design.
• Prepare detailed technical documentation, including safety block diagrams and architectures.

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• 3-5+ years of experience in PLC programming with high competence in safety systems engineering.
• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering or science discipline (e.g., Automation, Electronics, or Mechanical Engineering).
• Strong proficiency in Siemens TIA Portal and Beckhoff TwinCAT.
• Practical knowledge of safety standards such as ISO 13849-1, IEC 62061, and IEC 61508.
• Experience with Safety PLCs, Safety Relays, and various Safety Field Devices.
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols including Profibus, Profinet, and EtherNet/IP.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects concurrently.
• Flexibility to travel to various UK and international sites as required by specific projects.

Nice to Haves

• TÜV Functional Safety Engineer certification or equivalent.
• Previous experience with CE or SIL certification processes.

Benefits

Our employee benefits are designed for you. We care about people and we've ensured we have a wealth of benefits that focus on your well-being. We regularly review our benefits to ensure we are supporting our employees appropriately. Currently, we offer technically stretching work, a competitive salary and:

• A hybrid working policy that sees you in the office typically 40% of your time.
• 30 days 'working from anywhere' policy
• Private Medical Insurance
• Meal tickets
• Home office equipment
• Opportunity to participate in share schemes
• Regular divisional socials, sports clubs and access to the Ocado Technology Academy for a packed schedule of courses, conferences and events.

If you think you have what it takes to make a difference, please submit your application below.

Be bold, be unique, be brilliant, be you. We are looking for individuality and we value diversity. We are an equal opportunities employer and we are committed to treating all applicants and employees fairly and equally. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments to provide a positive, barrier-free recruitment process and supportive work environment. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application.

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