Automation Systems Engineer

JR United Kingdom; Huddersfield; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Automation Engineer to enhance automation initiatives across multiple manufacturing sites. This role involves leading projects from concept to completion, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and contributing to continuous improvement efforts. You'll collaborate on capital projects, manage operational technology, and support data collection systems. Join a forward-thinking company that values diversity and innovation, and take your career to the next level while making a significant impact in the manufacturing sector.

Benefits

5% bonus scheme

Comprehensive healthcare support

KP Pension Plan with contribution matching

KP4ME benefits platform

Qualifications

• Strong practical background in automation engineering or relevant apprenticeship.
• Solid knowledge of control systems and electrical engineering.

Responsibilities

• Lead automation projects from concept to handover, ensuring compliance.
• Collaborate on capital projects to optimize site efficiency.

Skills

Automation Engineering

Problem-Solving

Electrical Engineering

Project Management

Education

HNC or higher in Engineering

Apprenticeship in Engineering

Tools

PLC Systems (GX Works, CX Programmer, Rockwell Automation)

Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES)

Job description

Automation Engineer

Location: Pontefract & Hellaby (Field-based role with a UK-wide remit)

Type: Full-time, site-based across two modern manufacturing sites

Are you a passionate automation specialist with a strong engineering background and problem-solving skills? We are seeking an Automation Engineer to join our Central Engineering Team and support automation initiatives across our Pontefract and Hellaby sites.

Responsibilities:

1. Lead and support automation projects from concept to handover, including installation and commissioning.
2. Contribute to Continuous Improvement (CI) initiatives, site efficiency, and system optimization.
3. Collaborate on capital projects to deliver technical solutions aligned with business goals.
4. Manage operational technology infrastructure and energy management systems.
5. Support Manufacturing Execution System (MES) for data collection and production insights.
6. Ensure compliance with legislative, food safety, and safety standards.

Qualifications & Experience:

1. HNC or higher in engineering, or a strong practical background through apprenticeship.
2. Experience in automation engineering, preferably within food manufacturing or FMCG.
3. Solid knowledge of electrical engineering and control systems.
4. Experience with PLC systems such as GX Works, CX Programmer, Rockwell Automation.
5. Familiarity with MES platforms, data collection, operational technology, and energy management systems.
6. Proven project management and continuous improvement experience.
7. Knowledge of quality management systems, legislative, and food safety standards.
8. Experience with budgeting, CapEx, and procurement processes.

What We Offer:

• 5% bonus scheme with a track record of overachievement.
• Comprehensive healthcare support, including private healthcare and digital GP services.
• KP Pension Plan with contribution matching up to 7%.
• KP4ME benefits platform offering discounts, prizes, and wellbeing resources.

About Us:

KP Snacks, part of the Intersnack family, employs over 15,000 people across 30 countries. In the UK, we have around 2,400 employees across seven factories and our Slough HQ. We value diversity, inclusion, and a workplace where everyone belongs. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds and are committed to making the application process accessible. If you have a solid automation background and manufacturing experience, we'd love to hear from you.