Automation Support Engineer (SCADA & PLC)

Location: Rotterdam, The Netherlands
Employment Type: Permanent (initial 12-month contracting period, with the intention of direct employment by the client after successful completion)
Project container terminal 

About the Role

We are looking for an Automation Support Engineer to join a dynamic operations team in Rotterdam. This is a long-term opportunity that starts with a 12-month contracting period, after which the company intends to transition the successful candidate into a permanent internal position.

In this role, you will be responsible for supporting, maintaining, and optimizing industrial automation systems, ensuring operational continuity and driving continuous improvement across automated processes. You will work closely with operations, suppliers, and contractors to resolve technical issues and improve system performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Support and maintain industrial automation systems, including SCADA and PLC-based solutions.
• Diagnose and resolve mechanical, electrical, software, and communication-related issues.
• Perform troubleshooting and root cause analysis to minimize downtime.
• Read and interpret technical drawings, electrical schematics, and system documentation.
• Implement continuous improvements to enhance system reliability, efficiency, and performance.
• Monitor automation processes and proactively identify optimization opportunities.
• Train operators on system functionality and best practices.
• Coordinate with suppliers, contractors, and internal stakeholders to resolve technical challenges.
• Provide on-call support during critical operational periods and be available by phone for contractor-related queries.
• Maintain accurate technical documentation and support knowledge sharing within the team.

Candidate Profile

Required Experience

• Minimum 2 years of experience supporting and maintaining industrial automation solutions.
• Hands-on experience with SCADA integration and PLC programming.
• Experience troubleshooting automation systems in an industrial or manufacturing environment.

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of SCADA systems and PLC programming.
• Ability to diagnose mechanical, electrical, software, and network/connectivity issues.
• Proficient in reading and interpreting electrical diagrams, technical drawings, and schematics.
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols is considered an advantage.

Soft Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Hands-on, proactive approach with a continuous improvement mindset.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong communication skills, including the ability to train operators and communicate effectively with suppliers.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and managing priorities under pressure.
• Flexible and willing to provide on-call support when required.
• Motivated, eager to learn, and committed to delivering high-quality work.