Automation Engineer

Automation Experts; Coalville; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

BUPA

Annual bonus 5%

Matched pension 7%

Job summary

Automation Experts are recruiting an experienced Automation Engineer for a high-speed FMCG site in Leicestershire. You will lead site-wide automation initiatives, improve reliability, reduce downtime and develop the engineering team, with a strong focus on Siemens PLC systems.

The role requires hands-on problem solving, CAPEX delivery from concept to handover, and the ability to work cross-functionally across contractors and internal teams in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• HNC/HND in Electrical/Automation Engineering or equivalent.
• Strong electrical and PLC experience, especially Siemens platforms.
• Experience in FMCG/manufacturing environments and CAPEX delivery.

Responsibilities

• Ensure reliability, safety and performance of automation systems.
• Deliver CAPEX projects from concept to handover, on time and within budget.
• Manage automation upgrades, installations and obsolescence programs.
• Collaborate with contractors, suppliers and internal teams on project delivery.
• Maintain automation standards, documentation and system compliance.
• Support training and development of site teams in automation systems.
• Ensure all work meets Health & Safety and environmental requirements.
• Provide out-of-hours support when required.

Skills

PLC programming

Siemens Step 7

Siemens TIA Portal

Electrical engineering

Fault finding

Cross-functional work

Education

HNC/HND in Electrical/Automation Engineering

Tools

Siemens Step 7

TIA Portal

MES

Networking

Job description

Our client is a leading UK-based FMCG manufacturer and part of a well-established international food group, operating across multiple global markets. With a strong portfolio of recognised consumer brands, the business holds a significant position within the UK snacking category and continues to invest in innovation, automation and sustainable growth.

One of its key manufacturing sites, based in Leicestershire is a high-volume, technologically advanced facility with a long-standing heritage in food production. The site plays a critical role within the wider UK operation, supplying major retailers and supporting ongoing expansion.

The organisation is known for its collaborative culture, commitment to quality and continuous improvement and its focus on developing talent within a fast-paced, performance-driven environment.

Automation Engineer

£55-60k + BUPA, 5% Annual Bonus, Matched Pension (7%)

Leicestershire. Ref: 25265

The Opportunity

This role offers the chance to take a site-wide technical lead position, combining hands‑on problem solving with longer-term capability building. You'll play a key role in improving reliability, reducing downtime and developing the engineering team. A strong background in manufacturing engineering / maintenance with proven experience of Siemens PLC systems (essential). Experience of working within a high speed, automated production environment ideal.

Automation Engineer - The Role:

• Ensure reliability, safety and performance of automation systems.
• Deliver CAPEX projects from concept to handover, on time and within budget.
• Manage automation upgrades, installations, and obsolescence programs.
• Work with contractors, suppliers and internal teams on project delivery.
• Maintain automation standards, documentation and system compliance.
• Support training and development of site teams in automation systems.
• Ensure all work meets Health & Safety, environmental and statutory requirements.
• Provide out-of-hours support when required.

Automation Engineer - The Person:

• HNC/HND (or equivalent) in Electrical/Automation Engineering.
• Strong electrical and PLC experience (Siemens Step 7 / TIA preferred).
• Background in FMCG, manufacturing, or production environments.
• Experience in project engineering and CAPEX delivery.
• Knowledge of MES, networks and automation systems.
• Strong fault‑finding, problem‑solving and organisational skills.
• Good communication and ability to work cross‑functionally.
• Self‑motivated, flexible, and safety‑focused.
• Willing to travel and provide occasional out‑of‑hours support.
• Located in Leicestershire, this role would be commutable from Burton Upon Trent, Derby, Coalville, Tamworth and other surrounding areas.