Automation Engineer

KP Snacks; Leicester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading snacks manufacturer in Leicester is seeking an Automation Engineer to enhance automation systems. The role involves leading projects, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. Candidates should have a strong background in automation engineering and electrical control systems, along with experience using Siemens TIA Portal and other PLC systems. Competitive benefits include a bonus scheme, healthcare support, and a pension plan.

Benefits

Annual bonus scheme

Comprehensive healthcare support

KP Pension Plan

25 days holiday

Qualifications

• HNC or above in engineering or time-served apprenticeship with practical experience.
• Background in automation engineering is essential.
• Solid foundation in electrical engineering and control systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead automation and PLC support across the Ashby site.
• Collaborate with site teams and suppliers to deliver automation projects.
• Ensure compliance with Health and Safety and Hygiene policies.
• Manage automation documentation, contracts and warranties.

Skills

Automation engineering

Electrical engineering

Control systems

Education

HNC or above in an engineering discipline

Tools

Siemens TIA Portal

GX Works

CX Programmer

Rockwell Automation

Job description

Overview

You'll be responsible for supporting and improving our automation systems, leading site projects and ensuring safe, efficient operations. This is a hands-on role where you'll work closely with colleagues across Engineering, Manufacturing and Technical to deliver automation solutions that make a real difference.

Responsibilities

• Lead automation and PLC support across the Ashby site, building fault-finding capability across all shifts
• Tackle automation challenges with confidence, including obsolescence upgrades and CAPEX project delivery
• Collaborate with site teams, suppliers and contractors to deliver automation projects from concept to completion
• Make a real impact on automation standards, training and coaching - ensuring safe systems and consistent processes
• Learn and grow through cross-functional teamwork, supporting both site-driven and centrally driven engineering projects
• Support 24/7 emergency cover and ensure automation systems are available and safeguarded at all times
• Drive continuous improvement through Intersnack Work Systems and Initiative Management principles
• Ensure compliance with Health and Safety, Environment and Hygiene policies, with a focus on safe working practices
• Manage automation documentation, contracts and warranties, ensuring systems are fit for purpose and aligned with KP Snacks standards

Qualifications

• HNC or above in an engineering discipline, or time-served apprenticeship with strong practical experience
• A background in automation engineering
• A solid foundation in electrical engineering and control systems

Technical Experience

• Siemens TIA Portal (essential)
• Other PLC systems such as GX Works, CX Programmer, Rockwell Automation
• MES platforms and data collection systems
• Operational technology and energy management systems

Project & CI Experience

• Providing hands-on coaching and development to wider teams in automation engineering (essential)
• Demonstrated experience in project engineering and management
• Involvement in maintenance and continuous improvement programmes
• Familiarity with quality management systems and legislative/food safety compliance
• Comfortable with budgeting, CapEx processes, and procurement

Benefits

• Annual bonus scheme, with a strong track record of overachievement
• Comprehensive healthcare support - including Medicash Health Cash Plan or Private Healthcare, Digital GP, Best Doctors second opinion service and specialist cancer care
• KP Pension Plan - contribution matching up to 7% of your salary
• 25 days holiday, plus the option to buy more
• KP4ME - our online platform for benefits, discounts, wellbeing tools and more