Automation Engineer

Moorland Recruitment; Long Lee; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic player in the food manufacturing industry is seeking an Automation / Project Engineer to enhance production processes. This role involves maintaining automation systems and leading engineering projects. Ideal candidates will hold a degree in a relevant field and have experience in Siemens PLC programming. Additional experience in food manufacturing is desirable. Join a proactive team dedicated to innovation and efficiency in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Degree or HNC/HND in Electrical, Control, or Automation Engineering (or equivalent hands-on experience).
• Solid track record in Siemens PLC programming and fault-finding.
• Background in manufacturing, process-driven, or industrial settings.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and optimize automation systems in production zones.
• Work with Siemens systems — PLCs and HMIs.
• Plan and deliver small-scale engineering projects from concept to completion.
• Identify opportunities for improvement in reliability and safety.

Skills

Siemens PLC programming

HMI development

Analytical skills

Project planning

Communication

Health and safety commitment

Education

Degree or HNC/HND in Electrical, Control, or Automation Engineering

Tools

SCADA systems

CAD drawing

Job description

Are you a tech‑savvy engineer with a passion for automation and innovation? On behalf of our client, a dynamic player in the food manufacturing industry, we’re seeking a talented Automation / Project Engineer to supercharge their production processes! If you thrive on optimizing systems, tackling challenges head‑on, and driving efficiency in a fast‑paced environment, this role could be your next big step.

Why This Role Rocks

Join a team where your expertise will keep things flowing smoothly — literally! You’ll be the go‑to guru for maintaining and enhancing automation systems in key production areas, ensuring everything runs like a well‑oiled machine. Plus, you’ll lead exciting projects that boost performance, slash downtime, and support sustainable growth. It’s hands‑on, impactful work that combines daily problem‑solving with long‑term innovation.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Master the daily performance, maintenance, and optimization of automation systems in core production zones.
• Dive deep into Siemens systems — PLCs and HMIs — to interrogate, tweak, program, and troubleshoot like a pro.
• Plan and deliver small‑scale engineering projects from concept to completion, including scoping, design, implementation, and top‑notch documentation.
• Spot opportunities for improvement and spearhead initiatives that amp up reliability, speed, and safety across operations.
• Keep everything documented accurately, from specs and drawings to risk assessments.
• Champion compliance with safety, hygiene, and quality standards to maintain a top‑tier, audit‑ready setup.

Who We’re Looking For

Essential Qualifications & Experience

• Degree or HNC/HND in Electrical, Control, or Automation Engineering (or equivalent hands‑on experience).
• Solid track record in Siemens PLC programming and fault‑finding.
• Background in manufacturing, process‑driven, or industrial settings.
• Sharp analytical skills, eagle‑eyed attention to detail, and the ability to problem‑solve independently or in a tight‑knit team.

Desirable Extras

• Experience in food manufacturing.
• Familiarity with packaging automation, SCADA systems, or CAD drawing (electrical/mechanical).

Key Skills & Competencies

• Proficient in HMI development and industrial networking.
• Strong grasp of automation, instrumentation, and process control.
• Proactive mindset for continuous improvement and fresh ideas.
• Excellent communicator who can break down tech talk for everyone.
• Super organized with killer project planning and documentation skills.
• Unwavering commitment to health and safety as the bedrock of success.