Automation Design Manager

ZipRecruiter; Beccles; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering company is seeking an experienced Engineering and Automation Design Manager to lead the design and development of cutting-edge automation solutions. You will manage a multidisciplinary team, ensuring projects are delivered on time and to the highest standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in mechanical design, electrical design, and software development for PLC systems. This role is pivotal in delivering bespoke automation systems and driving continuous improvement across engineering processes.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years' experience in automation or manufacturing engineering.
• At least 5 years in a leadership or management position.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a high-performing team across mechanical, electrical, and software disciplines.
• Oversee mechanical design activities using SolidWorks and PDM.
• Manage electrical design processes using EPlan.

Skills

Leadership

Problem Solving

Communication

Tools

SolidWorks

EPlan

PLC Programming

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job Description

Engineering & Automation Design Manager

A leading engineering company is seeking an experienced Engineering and Automation Design Manager to lead the design and development of cutting-edge automation solutions. This role is central to delivering bespoke and repeat-build automation systems, as well as modernisation and retro-fit projects.

You will be responsible for managing a multidisciplinary team of mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest technical standards. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in mechanical design (SolidWorks, PDM/PLM), electrical design (EPlan), and software development for PLC systems (Allen Bradley, Mitsubishi, Siemens).

Key Responsibilities

1. Leadership & Team Management
2. Lead and develop a high-performing team across mechanical, electrical, and software disciplines.
3. Establish best practices in engineering and automation design.
4. Promote cross-functional collaboration and effective resource planning.
5. Provide hands-on technical support and mentoring to the engineering team.

Mechanical Design

1. Oversee mechanical design activities using SolidWorks and PDM.
2. Ensure designs adhere to industry standards and safety regulations.
3. Champion innovation and continuous improvement in mechanical design.
4. Approve detailed technical drawings and design documentation.

Electrical Design

1. Manage electrical design processes using EPlan.
2. Ensure compliance with safety and functional requirements.
3. Collaborate with software developers to support integrated systems.
4. Approve electrical panel designs and layouts.

Software & Automation

1. Oversee PLC programming and software development for automation systems.
2. Lead development across Allen Bradley, Mitsubishi, and Siemens platforms.
3. Support the design and deployment of HMI and SCADA systems.
4. Manage integration, testing, and commissioning of full automation systems.

Project Delivery

1. Lead projects from concept through to completion.
2. Work closely with clients and stakeholders to capture and refine requirements.
3. Monitor budgets and timelines, ensuring efficient delivery.
4. Conduct risk assessments and drive mitigation strategies.

Compliance & Innovation

1. Ensure compliance with all relevant industry standards.
2. Drive continuous improvement across engineering processes.
3. Keep up to date with emerging trends in automation and design.
4. Develop and implement SOPs for design consistency and quality.

Skills & Experience

• Minimum of 8 years' experience in automation or manufacturing engineering.
• At least 5 years in a leadership or management position.
• Strong problem-solving ability, self-motivated, and capable of working independently.
• Comfortable interpreting complex technical documentation and client specifications.
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems is advantageous.
• Experience with PDM/PLM platforms.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office tools.
• Full UK driving licence is essential.
• Willingness to travel quarterly to manufacturing centres, including potential overseas travel.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, leadership, and stakeholder engagement abilities.

Sound like something you would like to get involved in?

Hit apply or contact Lewis Woollard directly at 01603 415 100.