Senior Functional Safety Engineer

SCX is a UK-based engineering business with a reputation for innovation, precision, and delivery in complex mechanical handling and kinetic architecture systems. With a portfolio spanning world-class projects in Defence, Aerospace, Nuclear, Sports & Entertainment and Infrastructure sectors, SCX continues to invest in its people, processes, and operational capability to meet growing demand and exceed customer expectations.

Purpose of the Role

The Senior Functional Safety Engineer will lead the specification, design, and validation of safety-related control systems, ensuring compliance with international safety standards and project-specific requirements. As a senior member of the EC&I department, this role will act as a technical authority for functional and machinery safety, supporting both project delivery and internal capability development.

You will work closely with clients, project teams, and external partners to ensure that safety requirements are fully understood, documented, and integrated into robust, reliable, and verifiable control system designs.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and delivery of safety-critical control systems in accordance with applicable standards (e.g. BS EN 13849-1, BS EN 62061, BS EN 61508).
• Act as the technical authority on functional and machinery safety across multiple concurrent projects.
• Specify and validate safety functions and safety integrity levels using tools such as SISTEMA and SIL verification methods.
• Produce and approve detailed technical documentation including:
• Functional and Safety Design Specifications (FDS/SDS)
• Basis of Design documents
• Safety Reliability Reports and SIL calculations
• Review and approve safety-related hardware and software designs produced by internal engineers and subcontractors.
• Conduct formal Design Risk Assessments and ensure mitigation measures are implemented throughout the design process.
• Engage directly with clients to define scope, confirm compliance, and lead technical discussions around safety system design.
• Lead and support Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) and Site Acceptance Tests (SAT), with a focus on safety-critical functionality.
• Manage and mentor junior engineers, promoting knowledge transfer and supporting their development toward formal Functional Safety certification.
• Deliver internal training on safety standards, tools, and design best practices to enhance organisational capability.
• Support the preparation and review of bids, providing technical insight on safety design feasibility, scope, and compliance.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of safety legislation, standards, and industry trends, ensuring SCX remains at the forefront of control system safety.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of safety processes, documentation, and quality assurance practices within the EC&I department.

Skills & Experience Required

• Degree-qualified in Electrical, Control, or a related engineering discipline.
• Significant industry experience delivering safety-critical control systems.
• Proven expertise in applying safety standards including BS EN 13849, BS EN 61508, and BS EN 62061.
• Strong working knowledge of PLC/HMI platforms (e.g. Siemens, Rockwell, Schneider) and control system design principles.
• Proficiency with SISTEMA, Amtech, and other safety verification tools.
• Demonstrable experience in leading risk assessments and design assurance activities.
• Ability to manage and mentor engineering teams, and provide clear technical direction.
• Effective communicator with the ability to engage clients, manage expectations, and influence decision-making.
• Full UK driving licence (travel between offices and client sites required).

Desirable Qualifications & Experience

• Chartered Engineer (CEng) or actively working toward professional registration.
• Formal certification in Functional Safety (e.g. TÜV Rheinland, CFSE, or equivalent).
• Experience in high-integrity or regulated sectors such as Defence, Aerospace, or Nuclear.
• Background in the design of Overhead Electrical Travelling Cranes (OHETCs) or similar large-scale machinery.
• Hands-on experience in PLC/HMI programming, commissioning, and fault-finding.

Location: Sheffield

Job Benefits

• Flexible Start and Finish Times: Shape your day with flexible start and finish times around our core working hours.
• Pension Scheme: We operate a salary sacrifice pension scheme, reinvesting our savings directly into your pension.
• Annual Leave: 25 days of holiday plus statutory bank holidays.
• Need a Few More Days? Buy up to 3 extra holidays annually through our purchase scheme.
• Long Service Awards: Receive additional leave at 5 and 10 years of service.
• Employee Referral Scheme: Help us grow our team and get rewarded.