Automation Engineer

Home Bargains; Amesbury; On-site; GBP 57,000; Full time

Job summary

A UK-based discount retailer is seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to support automated handling systems in their Distribution Centre. Responsibilities include conducting maintenance, responding to faults, and implementing continuous improvements. Proven experience in a similar engineering role and technical qualifications in electrical or mechanical engineering are required. Join a dynamic team making a meaningful impact within the organization.

Benefits

28 days of annual leave (increasing to 33 after 5 years)

Contributable company pension scheme

10% store discount

Death in Service Benefit

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Experience in an automated, FMCG, or high-throughput environment.
• Ability to interpret technical documentation including schematics.

Responsibilities

• Conduct planned preventative maintenance to minimise downtime.
• Respond quickly to system breakdowns and diagnose faults.
• Track system performance and support permanent solutions development.

Skills

Technical troubleshooting

Hands-on fault finding

Strong understanding of automated handling systems

Working knowledge of Siemens PLCs

Education

Recognised Engineering Apprenticeship

Level 3 qualification in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SCADA systems

PLC programming

Job description

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Automation Engineer to support the operation, maintenance, and optimisation of our automated handling systems within a busy Distribution Centre in Amesbury, Wiltshire. This role is essential in ensuring high levels of equipment availability, reliability, and performance to keep our operations running smoothly.

Working as part of the engineering shift team, you will be responsible for responding to faults, conducting planned preventative maintenance, and participating in continuous improvement initiatives. Your focus will be on both proactive and reactive engineering tasks, all while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and operational efficiency.

In addition to your core responsibilities, you will provide vital escalation support in the absence of the Shift Manager, helping to lead and coordinate the engineering response. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled engineer looking to make a tangible impact in a fast-paced, automated environment.

Package

• £56,938.96 per annum
• DAY Shift - 06:00 - 18:00 hrs
• 4 on 4 off - 12 hours shifts

Employee Benefits

• Full-time employees receive 28 days of annual leave (inclusive of bank holidays), increasing to 33 days after 5 years of service. Annual leave is pro-rated for part-time or alternative working arrangements.
• Contributable company pension scheme
• 10% store discount at all our retail stores
• Death in Service Benefit
• Long service recognition scheme
• MyHB colleague benefits platform with access to:
  • Discounts UK wide on retail, leisure, hospitality venues
  • Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 confidential counselling and advice line
  • Low-cost voluntary insured health cash plans and cancer cover

Job Overview

• Maintenance: Carry out regular upkeep of automation and material handling systems to minimise downtime and maximise operational efficiency.
• Fault response: Respond quickly to system breakdowns, performing accurate diagnosis and timely resolution to keep operations running.
• Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM): Complete scheduled maintenance activities to the required standards and within agreed timescales.
• System monitoring: Track and analyse system performance, highlighting recurring faults to support the development of permanent solutions.
• CMMS management: Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all maintenance activities within the Computerised Maintenance Management System.
• Continuous improvement: Identify and elevate engineering improvements and help reduce the volume of reactive maintenance over time.
• Collaboration: Work closely with Shift Managers, fellow Engineers, and third-party contractors to ensure consistent service levels and teamwork.
• Health & Safety compliance: Follow all safety procedures, report hazards or unsafe behaviours, and contribute to a safe, well-maintained working environment.

Minimum Criteria To Apply

• Technical troubleshooting: Use SCADA, PLCs, and engineering schematics to investigate faults and support efficient problem-solving.
• Recognised Engineering Apprenticeship or equivalent formal training in electrical or mechanical engineering.
• Level 3 qualification such as NVQ, BTEC, or City & Guilds in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering.
• Proven experience in a similar Engineering role within an automated, FMCG, or high-throughput environment.
• Hands‑on fault finding and repair experience in both electrical and mechanical systems.
• Strong understanding of automated handling systems such as conveyors or automated cranes.
• Working knowledge of Siemens PLCs, SCADA systems, and industrial communication networks (e.g., Profibus, AS‑i).
• Ability to interpret technical documentation, including electrical/mechanical drawings and maintenance procedures.

About The Company

TJ Morris Limited trading as Home Bargains is a privately owned family run discount retailer selling top brands at the lowest possible price on the UK high street.

Having started 45 years ago in Liverpool our customers continue to be at the heart of everything we do and throughout our 580 stores we have over 5 million customers each week.

With plans to increase our store portfolio to 1,000 stores throughout the UK we are a fast-paced retailer opening 50 stores a year (nearly one every weekend) - and we wouldn't have it any other way!