Automation Engineer

First Base; Bridgwater; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in Bridgwater is looking for an Automation Engineer to lead automation initiatives across their manufacturing site. The role involves optimising production processes and delivering technology projects. Ideal candidates should have a degree in engineering and considerable experience in PLC programming and industrial control systems. Strong problem-solving skills and a focus on safety are essential for success in this position.

Qualifications

• Degree-qualified in engineering or equivalent experience.
• Experience delivering automation in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong PLC programming and industrial control systems knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Act as site expert for automation and industrial control systems.
• Support and develop the site's automation strategy.
• Troubleshoot and improve PLC‑based and automated equipment.
• Lead automation and operational technology projects end to end.
• Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards.

Skills

PLC programming

Industrial control systems knowledge

Problem-solving

Stakeholder management

Analytical skills

Safety standards knowledge

Education

Degree in engineering or equivalent experience

Job description

Automation Engineer

Location: Bridgwater, Somerset
Hours: Full Time | Permanent
Salary: Competitive Salary

Our client is seeking a hands‑on Automation Engineer to lead and support automation initiatives across a manufacturing site. This role focuses on improving automated systems, optimising production processes and delivering automation and technology projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as site expert for automation and industrial control systems.
• Support and develop the site's automation strategy.
• Troubleshoot and improve PLC‑based and automated equipment.
• Integrate control system hardware and software with production equipment.
• Lead automation and operational technology projects end to end.
• Manage automation partners and system suppliers.
• Produce and maintain technical, validation, and project documentation.
• Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
• Analyse and improve manufacturing processes.
• Support continuous improvement and lean initiatives.
• Develop SOPs, training materials, and technical documentation.

Key Skills

• Degree‑qualified in engineering or equivalent experience.
• Experience delivering automation in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong PLC programming and industrial control systems knowledge.
• Experience integrating robotics and automated systems.
• Knowledge of data acquisition and OEE monitoring systems.
• Experience working with safety standards for machinery.
• Proven project delivery and improvement capability.
• Strong problem‑solving and analytical skills.
• Confident communicator with good stakeholder management.
• Able to work independently and collaboratively.
• Detail‑focused with a strong safety‑first mindset.