Automation Engineer

Salary: £57,600 + Overtime (£1,000–£2,000 on top) + Pension
Shifts: 2 nights on / 2 off / 3 days on / 3 off (40 hours per week)

About the Role
We’re looking for a hands-on Automation Engineer to join one of the UK’s most advanced automated distribution centres. This is a multi-skilled role with a strong focus on PLC, PC, and controls fault management. You’ll act as the go-to technical specialist for the shift team, ensuring operationally critical equipment is maintained, optimised, and continuously improved.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as the technical lead on shift, supporting engineers with PLC/controls issues.

• Take ownership of technical fault management, liaising with wider support networks, contractors, and the customer.

• Carry out root cause analysis and drive continuous improvement to minimise downtime.

• Optimise equipment availability through targeted maintenance activities.

• Manage PLC backup, version control, and change management in line with company standards.

• Deliver on-the-job training and refresher sessions to shift technicians, raising the team’s technical capability.

• Support data analysis, hardware mapping, and technical tooling requirements.

• Ensure safe working practices and contractor management on automation systems.

What We’re Looking For

• A multi-skilled engineer with strong electrical and mechanical knowledge.

• PLC fault-finding and modification skills as a minimum (Siemens, Allen Bradley, or similar).

• Background in a fast-paced factory, distribution, or forces engineering environment.

• Strong problem-solving ability and the confidence to take the lead on technical issues.

• Hands-on, motivated, and keen to drive both personal and team development.

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary of £57,600 + overtime opportunities (£1,000–£2,000 extra per year).

• A varied and technically challenging role in a flagship automated site.

• Standard pension scheme.

• Ongoing technical and professional development with access to a structured training academy.