Personal profile

Thomas
Thurston.

Senior Control Systems Engineer

Staffordshire, UK

Thomas Thurston

About

Senior Controls System Engineer with 15 years of experience across special-purpose equipment, automotive powertrain machining, and food production (including poultry processing). I specialise in designing, programming, and commissioning complex automated systems using Siemens (S7 and TIA Portal), Allen Bradley (Studio 5000), Omron (Sysmac Studio), Pro-face and Mitsubishi platforms. Skilled in advanced control systems, I integrate robust PLC, HMI, and multi-axis motion control solutions with industrial machine networks such as EtherNet/IP and Profinet to optimise performance, reliability, and compliance with industry standards.

In addition to my technical role, I hold a unique background in sales engineering, having developed costings and proposals for custom-engineered machines to meet complex client requirements in automated assembly and machining operations. My expertise also includes safety compliance, particularly within ISO 13849 and ISO 12100, ensuring that all systems are rigorously risk-assessed and meet essential safety standards. With a proven track record of delivering reliable, scalable systems, I am dedicated to driving productivity and supporting teams from project concept to full system commissioning.

Key Skills

  • PLC Programming: Siemens (S7 and TIA Portal), Allen Bradley (Studio 5000), Omron (Sysmac Studio), Pro-face, Mitsubishi
  • HMI Development & Network Integration (EtherNet/IP, Profinet, Profibus and Modbus)
  • Motion Control & Servo Systems
  • Safety Compliance: ISO 13849, ISO 12100
  • System Commissioning, Troubleshooting & Project Costing
  • Cross-functional Collaboration, Client Support & Sales Engineering

Career

Career History

Jan 2020 - Current

Ishida Europe Ltd

Senior Control Systems Engineer

Oct 2024 - Present

ishidaeurope.com
Company overview

Founded in Kyoto, Japan, in 1893, Ishida is now a global company with a turnover in excess of $1 billion and more than 3500 employees across the globe. Ishida offer a full range of weighing, x-ray inspection, checkweighing, tray sealing, packing and leak detection equipment, plus supporting software, for food applications and non-food applications such as hardware and tablets.

  • Lead the development, programming, and commissioning of advanced control systems for high-speed food packaging lines, with a particular focus on platforms such as Omron (Sysmac Studio), Siemens (TIA Portal), and Allen Bradley (Studio 5000, Kinetix).
  • Manage network integration (EtherNet/IP, Profinet) and motion control systems, ensuring seamless and reliable operations across complex automation setups.
  • Implement ISO 13849 safety standards, conducting risk assessments and designing safety functions to meet compliance and protect both operators and equipment.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance machine diagnostics and support predictive maintenance, reducing downtime and increasing productivity.
  • Mentor junior engineers, providing technical guidance in troubleshooting, motion tuning, system commissioning, and project coordination.

Control Systems Engineer

Jan 2020 - Oct 2024

  • Designed and implemented control systems for food packaging machinery, utilising PLCs, HMI applications, and motion control products (e.g., Omron Sysmac, Siemens S7, and Allen Bradley CompactLogix) to create adaptable automation solutions.
  • Developed HMI interfaces with TIA Portal and FactoryTalk View, enhancing operator usability and system visibility for optimized performance.
  • Commissioned and configured Allen Bradley Kinetix and Siemens SINAMICS drives, fine-tuning motion profiles to meet speed and accuracy requirements.
  • Played a key role in on-site commissioning, troubleshooting issues in real-time and ensuring systems were delivered to meet clients' specific requirements.

Nov 2016 - Jan 2020

Neuteq Europe Ltd

Sales Engineer

Jan 2019 - Jan 2020

impco.com
Company overview

Neuteq Europe Limited offer world leading solutions in Microfinishing, Robotic Automation and Research and Development to automotive manufacturers. Manufacturing a full range of Microfinishing OEM solutions, Neuteq produce machines capable of producing hundreds of components an hour, or smaller more flexible batches.

  • Specialised in selling custom-engineered, special-purpose machines for industrial clients, focusing on complex assembly projects and new product development.
  • Developed detailed costings for each project, accurately estimating labour, materials, and production timelines to create budget-conscious solutions for clients.
  • Engaged closely with clients to understand their production needs, providing tailored automation solutions that optimised assembly line efficiency and ROI.
  • Prepared and delivered technical proposals that showcased machine capabilities, custom specifications, and detailed cost estimates, effectively communicating the value of each solution.
  • Collaborated with engineering teams to ensure designs met client requirements, balancing performance, cost-efficiency, and feasibility.
  • Built strong client relationships by offering ongoing support, addressing technical enquiries, and assisting with project planning and implementation.

Commissioning and Controls Engineer

Nov 2016 - Jan 2019

  • Led the safe commissioning of microfinishing and automation machines for automotive clients, focusing primarily on engine manufacturing lines both domestically and internationally.
  • Designed and implemented electrical and software upgrades to existing plant equipment, enabling support for additional part variations while working systematically to ensure successful installations.
  • Gained extensive experience in adhering to stringent customer specifications, including the integration of approved equipment and required software functionalities, ensuring full compliance with industry standards.
  • Developed expertise in integrating gantry systems and plant monitoring solutions for advanced diagnostics, primarily utilising Siemens architecture to enhance operational efficiency.

Aug 2011 - Nov 2016

Incotech Ltd

Systems Engineer

Aug 2011 - Nov 2016

incotech.co.uk
Company overview

Incotech specialise in the supply of industrial automation equipment to a wide range of industries including the automotive, research and development, military and pharmaceutical industries. They offer completely bespoke systems with all mechanical, electrical and pneumatic design done in house as well as all software written in house. The equipment manufactured varies but typically can be end of line test equipment through to complex assembly.

  • Engaged in turn-key projects, developing a strong foundation in general electrical engineering at both craft and design office levels.
  • Focused on PLC programming and system design, gaining hands-on experience with various control systems and automation technologies.
  • Assisted in the commissioning and troubleshooting of systems both prior to and following delivery, ensuring optimal performance and client satisfaction.
  • Gradually took on additional responsibilities in sales and project leadership, enhancing my ability to manage client relationships and project scopes.

Contact

Get in touch.