Automation Engineer

Integra People Ltd; Bolton; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm in the United Kingdom is seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to design and implement automated production processes aimed at maximizing efficiency, quality, and safety. The ideal candidate will have advanced PLC programming skills, hands-on experience with production automation, and the ability to collaborate effectively with suppliers and teams. A Bachelor's degree in Engineering is required, alongside strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Qualifications

• Advanced PLC programming and fault diagnosis skills.
• Hands-on experience with automated production processes and robotics.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills using formal methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement automated processes for production optimization.
• Analyze and diagnose production systems for automation solutions.
• Collaborate with suppliers to enhance equipment design.

Skills

PLC programming

Fault diagnosis

Production engineering documentation

Problem-solving methodologies

Cross-functional communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Automation Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office

Engineering software tools

Job description

Automation Engineer
Days initially 6 to 12 months then 3 shift.

We are seeking an experienced Automation Engineer with strong expertise in PLC programming, process automation, and production system optimization. This role focuses on designing, implementing, and improving automated production processes to maximize efficiency, quality, and safety. The position requires collaboration with equipment suppliers, production teams, and continuous evaluation of production systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement automated processes to optimize production performance.
• Analyze production systems to determine optimal automation solutions.
• Develop and configure equipment for maximum automation efficiency.
• Collaborate with suppliers to enhance equipment design, emphasizing safety, quality, and efficiency.
• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve faults in automated equipment and production processes.
• Evaluate, manage, and justify capital investments in equipment with clear ROI analysis.
• Support quotations, business cases, and investment planning for new opportunities.
• Oversee project budgets, spare parts, and related expenses.
• Implement automated processes with Production Engineering and Maintenance teams for seamless production integration.
• Continuously develop production systems, processes, and machinery improvements.
• Monitor industry trends and emerging technologies relevant to production automation.
• Develop and maintain engineering documentation including FMEA, control plans, and process flow diagrams.
• Introduce efficiency improvements, Just-In-Time (JIT) practices, and support future process innovations.
• Apply APQP and other quality planning standards to project execution.
• Plan and optimize process flows and operator methods to maximize throughput without compromising quality.
• Track project outcomes, measure KPIs, and drive continuous improvements.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Advanced PLC programming and fault diagnosis (Allen Bradley, Siemens, Keyence, etc.).
• Hands‑on experience with automated production processes, robotics, pneumatics, and mechanical systems.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills; proficient in RCCA, DMAIC, 5 Why, Fishbone, PDCA, and other formal problem‑solving methodologies.
• Experience in production engineering documentation and quality standards (e.g., IATF, control plans, FMEA).
• Knowledge of equipment OEE, preventive maintenance, and spare parts management.
• Proven ability to plan, manage, and deliver projects on schedule.
• Experience in capital equipment investment and justification.
• Strong cross‑functional communication skills.
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Automation Engineering, or equivalent.
• Experience in electronics or manufacturing environments preferred.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and engineering software tools.