Automation Development Engineer

ZipRecruiter; Manchester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading manufacturer as an Automation Development Engineer in Manchester. You'll enhance automated packaging systems, troubleshoot issues, and implement improvements. This role requires expertise in robotics and PLC programming, offering a chance to drive innovation in automation.

Qualifications

• Experience in automation, FMCG, or injection moulding.
• Proven expertise in fault-finding within 24V control circuits.

Responsibilities

• Diagnose and resolve faults in automated packaging lines.
• Identify opportunities to enhance operational efficiency.
• Perform PLC programming and diagnostics.

Skills

Problem Solving

Analytical Thinking

Collaboration

Education

Apprenticeship in Robotics/Automation

Mechanical Engineering

Electrical Engineering

Tools

PLC Programming

Robotics Programming

Pneumatic Equipment

Job description

Job Description

Company Overview: HellermannTyton is a leading manufacturer and supplier of products for fastening, fixing, installing, connecting, insulating, protecting, and identifying electrical cables and data network infrastructure. We also develop parts for customer-specific industrial applications. Since 1935, our mission has been to provide innovative solutions for all cable management needs – with customer satisfaction as our priority. Our portfolio includes more than 75,000 items, and we operate 15 world-class manufacturing facilities in 38 countries, employing over 6,000 people.

HellermannTyton is owned by APTIV and operates as a standalone business unit within the APTIV Group.

Why Join Us? You will be joining a business with ambitious growth plans, currently undergoing a period of change to enhance our performance and seize every opportunity for greater success. Recognised as a market leader, HellermannTyton delivers innovative solutions for our customers, collaborating with some of the biggest names in industry. We strive to be elite and are looking for individuals who share this vision. HellermannTyton is a great brand, with great people and products.

Role Overview As an Automation Development Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing automated packaging systems at our Manchester facility, ensuring efficiency, reliability, and minimal downtime. Beyond troubleshooting and repairs, you will proactively identify and implement automation improvements, working closely with the Operations Team to optimise performance and support continuous innovation. This role provides an opportunity to apply your technical expertise in robotics, PLC programming, and process optimisation within a fast-paced environment where precision and strategic thinking are essential.

Working Hours

Monday to Thursday – 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM

Friday – 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM

Location

Manchester Site

Reporting to: Automation Manager

Your Key Responsibilities

• Troubleshooting & Maintenance: Rapidly diagnose and resolve faults in automated packaging lines, printers, label applicators, boxing cells, and various robotics—including 6-axis, beam, and sprue pickers.
• Process Improvements: Identify opportunities to enhance operational efficiency, reduce downtime, minimise scrap, and improve machine reliability using data-driven insights.
• Collaboration & Communication: Work closely with the Operations Team, ensuring production requests are addressed, faults are permanently resolved, and improvements are successfully implemented.
• Technical Expertise: Perform PLC programming and diagnostics (Mitsubishi, Siemens, Omron), robot programming/teaching (Sytrama, ATM, Nachi, Kawasaki), and troubleshoot pneumatic equipment, sensors, and vacuum pumps.
• Quality & Safety Compliance: Uphold department and company procedures while maintaining clean and safe workstations.

What We’re Looking For

You bring a recognised apprenticeship in Robotics/Automation, Mechanical Engineering, or Electrical Engineering, alongside significant experience in automation, FMCG, or injection moulding. Your ability to think analytically, solve complex problems under pressure, and collaborate effectively makes you an asset to our team.

Additionally, you have:

Proven expertise in fault-finding within 24V control circuits in high-pressure environments.

Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing principles.

Hands-on experience with pneumatic equipment and automation components.

Ability to work independently while thriving in a team-driven environment.

A proactive mindset—you remain calm under pressure and implement creative solutions swiftly.

A flexible approach to working hours, with a willingness to support other areas as needed.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to drive innovation in automation, working with advanced technology in a fast-paced environment. We value individuals who take ownership, provide solutions, and contribute to a team that takes pride in delivering operational excellence.

Ready to make an impact? Apply now and be part of a team that drives automation forward!