Automation Engineer

Manufacturing Automation Engineer

Location: Barnsley (Primary Site)
Hours: Monday to Thursday: 8:30am – 5:00pm | Friday: 8:30am – 4:00pm

Manufacturing Automation Engineer – Robotics | PLCs | Process Improvement | Capital Projects

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Manufacturing Automation Engineer to join our Manufacturing Engineering team based primarily at our Barnsley site.

As we continue to invest in new technology, robotics and advanced manufacturing, this is a fantastic opportunity to play a leading role in shaping the future of our production operations. You will be responsible for identifying and implementing automation solutions that improve productivity, quality, efficiency and safety across our manufacturing facility.

This role is ideal for an experienced Automation or Manufacturing Engineer with a strong background in robotics, PLC-controlled systems and continuous improvement, who enjoys taking projects from concept through to implementation.

What you'll be doing

As our Manufacturing Automation Engineer, you will:

* Identify, evaluate and implement automation opportunities across manufacturing operations.

* Lead automation projects from initial concept, design and specification through to installation, commissioning and final handover.

* Integrate robotic systems, automated equipment and PLC-controlled machinery into existing production processes.

* Develop, modify and optimise robot programming and PLC-controlled manufacturing processes.

* Work closely with Production, Maintenance, Quality and Engineering teams to improve manufacturing performance.

* Conduct feasibility studies and cost-benefit analysis to support capital investment and automation business cases.

* Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma and data-driven problem-solving techniques.

* Improve Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), cycle times, process capability and production efficiency.

* Support New Product Introduction (NPI) activities by developing robust and efficient manufacturing processes.

* Ensure all automation projects comply with health & safety, quality and engineering standards.

* Produce and maintain technical documentation, operating procedures and engineering records.

What we're looking for

To be successful in this role you will have:

* A minimum of two years' experience within a Manufacturing Engineering, Automation Engineering or Production Engineering role.

* Previous experience within an Automotive Tier 1, FMCG or other high-volume manufacturing environment.

* Proven experience delivering automation or manufacturing improvement projects.

* Experience supporting New Product Introduction (NPI) projects.

* Strong knowledge of robotics, industrial automation and PLC-controlled manufacturing systems.

* Good understanding of manufacturing process design, production cell layout and material flow principles.

* Experience using Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement and waste reduction techniques.

* Knowledge of APQP, PFMEA, Statistical Process Control (SPC) and Six Sigma methodologies.

* Experience managing multiple engineering projects simultaneously.

* CAD experience, ideally using AutoCAD or similar software.

* A Degree (or equivalent qualification) in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Automation Engineering or a related engineering discipline.

Personal qualities

We're looking for someone who is:

* A proactive and innovative engineer with a passion for automation and emerging manufacturing technologies.

* An excellent analytical thinker with strong fault-finding and problem-solving skills.

* Highly organised with strong project management capabilities.

* Able to communicate effectively with colleagues at all levels across the business.

* Comfortable influencing stakeholders and working collaboratively within cross-functional teams.

* Results-driven with a focus on delivering measurable improvements in safety, quality, cost and productivity.

* Adaptable and enthusiastic about learning new technologies and manufacturing processes.

This is an excellent opportunity to become part of a forward-thinking manufacturing business that continues to invest heavily in automation, robotics and advanced manufacturing technology.

You'll have the opportunity to:

Lead exciting automation and capital investment projects.

Work with modern robotics and manufacturing technologies.

Make a genuine impact on manufacturing performance.

Develop your technical skills and career within a growing engineering team.

Be part of a culture focused on innovation, continuous improvement and operational excellence.

If you're an Automation Engineer looking to take ownership of exciting engineering projects and help shape the future of manufacturing, we'd love to hear from you
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed