Lead OT SCADA/MES Engineer

About Frontline Automation

Frontline Automation is a rapidly growing, locally owned and operated engineering consultancy based in Port Hedland WA and focused on providing engineering services directly to the 'frontline' of our clients operations in the North West and Pilbara regions. We value safety, simplicity and our people above all else, and pride ourselves on our 'can-do' attitude and going above and beyond for our clients.

About The Opportunity

Frontline Automation are seeking a skilled SCADA/MES Specialist Engineer to design, implement, and support supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) and manufacturing execution system (MES) solutions for industrial operations. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in automation systems, data integration, and real-time monitoring, with a focus on delivering reliable and scalable solutions aligned with operational and business objectives.

Perth-based and/or Port Hedland residential options available.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, configure, and maintain SCADA and MES systems to support production, monitoring, and reporting functions.
• Develop custom dashboards, HMI screens, and reports using SCADA and MES platforms (e.g. Ignition, AVEVA Plant/Citect SCADA, Wonderware, Simplicity, etc.).
• Integrate SCADA/MES with PLCs, DCS, historians, databases, and ERP systems to enable seamless data flow and system functionality.
• Lead system upgrades, expansions, and patch management in coordination with IT and operational stakeholders.
• Implement and maintain data acquisition and analysis tools to support performance monitoring, quality control, and traceability.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, and IT teams to deliver robust and secure industrial automation solutions.
• Ensure compliance with cybersecurity best practices and applicable standards.
• Provide technical documentation, training, and support to end users and maintenance teams.
• Troubleshoot and resolve SCADA/MES-related issues in a timely and effective manner.
• Support system validation, factory acceptance testing (FAT), site acceptance testing (SAT), and commissioning activities.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechatronics, Computer Systems, or Software Engineering (or equivalent).
• Minimum 5 years' experience in SCADA/MES engineering in industrial environments (e.g. mining, oil & gas, manufacturing, or utilities).
• Proficiency in at least one major SCADA platform and experience with MES implementation and integration.
• Solid understanding of industrial networking protocols (e.g. OPC UA/DA, Modbus, Ethernet/IP).
• Experience with SQL databases, scripting, and system architecture design.
• Familiarity with ISA-95 and ISA-88 standards and data modelling practices.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to interface with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Current Australian driver's licence.
• Australian citizenship or valid Australian work visa.

Desirable Experience & Skills:

• Strong proficiencies and certifications in Ignition, AVEVA Plant/Citect SCADA, and/or other relevant SCADA/MES systems or programming languages.
• Experience with cloud-based industrial platforms, data lakes, or IIoT technologies.
• Exposure to cybersecurity frameworks (e.g. IEC and OT/IT integration.
• Previous involvement in digital transformation or Industry 4.0 initiatives.

Why Join Us?

• Join a rapidly growing Company at the ground floor and take advantage of an excellent opportunity to grow your career with the business.
• Be part of an experienced, close-knit team with a flexible, supportive and inclusive culture.
• Gain hands on, 'frontline' experience working with world class industrial facilities and equipment, and industry leading organisations.
• Freedom and opportunity to work on a wide range of engaging and diverse projects across multiple industries, or to specialise in your particular area of interest.
• Continuous learning and development through a variety of challenging work experiences and career pathways.

What We Offer

At Frontline Automation, we recognise that people are our most invaluable asset. We foster a workplace culture built on integrity, trust and support and put people and work-life balance first. We offer a competitive remuneration and benefits package that recognises your talent and rewards your loyalty and contribution. You'll share in the company's success and be rewarded for your own. We'll invest in your professional development and provide an inclusive environment in which for you to succeed.

• A competitive remuneration package.
• Employee bonus and reward schemes.
• Exclusive employee discounts and offers.
• Flexible, open work policy.
• Ongoing mentoring and training for professional development and career progression.
• Employee assistance program for employees and their families.
• Regular team building and social events.

Additional incentives offered for Port Hedland-based residential roles.

If you're ready to take your career to the next level and think you'd be a great fit for the role and for Frontline Automation then please apply by submitting your resume and application cover letter. Alternatively, feel free to reach out to us at for further information about the position.

Diversity Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer that recognises the value of a diverse workforce. All suitably qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective criteria and without regard to the following (which is a non-exhaustive list): race, colour, age, religion, gender, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other characteristics in accordance with the relevant governing laws.

We will not be accepting candidates from recruitment agencies at this time.