Electrical & Automation Engineer

Alexander Steele; Maidstone; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A successful manufacturing business in Maidstone is seeking an experienced Electrical & Automation Engineer to ensure the smooth operation of a high-speed manufacturing site. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience, strong knowledge of industrial electrical systems, and be hands-on with PLCs. This position offers competitive pay ranging from £50,000 to £60,000 with a focus on maintenance and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• 5+ years' electrical experience in a high-speed manufacturing/production environment.
• Able to read electrical drawings/wiring diagrams.
• Proficient with CMMS and Microsoft Office.

Responsibilities

• Carry out planned and reactive maintenance on electrical & automation systems.
• Support production during shifts, ensuring on-time performance across high-speed lines.
• Monitor system performance, recommending improvements.

Skills

Electrical experience

Industrial electrical systems knowledge

Hands-on with PLCs

Problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Education

NVQ Level 3 in Electrical Installation/Maintenance

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

Omron PLC

CMMS

Microsoft Office

Job description

Electrical & Automation Engineer

Chatham, Kent

Salary: £50,000 - £60,000

4 days on, 4 days off – Dayshift

Alexander Steele is partnering with a successful manufacturing business seeking an Electrical & Automation Engineer to keep a high‑speed manufacturing site running smoothly—delivering effective maintenance, rapid breakdown response, and continuous improvement across automation assets.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out planned and reactive maintenance on electrical & automation systems (PLCs, HMIs, drives, SCADA).
• Diagnose, repair, and optimise PLC‑controlled equipment (e.g., Siemens; exposure to Allen‑Bradley/Omron beneficial) to minimise downtime.
• Support production during shifts, ensuring on‑time, in‑full performance across high‑speed lines (wrappers, sealers, conveyors, weighers, check‑weighers, X‑ray/metal detection, robotics).
• Assist with design, programming, testing and commissioning of automation changes and small projects.
• Perform root cause analysis and implement corrective/preventive actions.
• Contribute to Capex and continuous improvement projects (installation, commissioning, optimisation).
• Monitor system performance, recommending improvements to reliability, safety, and productivity.
• Maintain accurate documentation & backups for PLC/HMI/robotic systems and record all maintenance activities.
• Provide mechanical support where required as part of a multi‑skilled team.
• Use the CMMS to manage PPMs, work orders, spares, and compliance records.
• Adhere to Health, Safety & Hygiene standards and promote best practice.
• Share expertise by supporting and mentoring colleagues.

Skills & Experience

• 5+ years' electrical experience in a high‑speed manufacturing/production environment
• Strong knowledge of industrial electrical systems, control circuits, motors, and advanced fault‑finding.
• Hands‑on with PLCs (Siemens essential; Allen‑Bradley/Omron advantageous), HMIs, servo drives, SCADA.
• NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent) in Electrical Installation/Maintenance.
• Experienced in breakdowns, PPM, routine checks, and implementing preventative measures.
• Able to read electrical drawings/wiring diagrams; competent report writing and documentation.
• Proficient with CMMS and Microsoft Office.
• Excellent problem‑solving, attention to detail, and strong safety awareness.
• Electrical/automation bias (≈70‑80%) with willingness to support mechanical tasks (≈20‑30%).
• Flexible, self‑motivated, and effective working independently or within a team on rotating shifts