Graduate Automation Engineer

Symphony Group PLC; Barnsley; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Symphony Group PLC in Barnsley is seeking a Graduate Manufacturing Automation Engineer to modernise production through robotics, automation and process optimisation on site. The role is a full-time, permanent position with a competitive salary.

This role would suit an Automation Engineer with a degree in Robotics and Automation or similar and a focus on practical on-site improvements. You will lead automation projects and collaborate across teams to improve efficiency, quality and innovation in

Qualifications

• Degree in Robotics and Automation or related discipline.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with automation projects and lean methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Identify and deliver automation opportunities across manufacturing operations.
• Lead installation, commissioning, and integration of robotic and automated systems.
• Develop and optimise robot programs and PLC-controlled processes.
• Conduct cost-benefit analysis and support capital investment decisions.
• Drive continuous improvement using data analysis and Lean methodologies.

Skills

Automation

Project management

Lean manufacturing

Data analysis

Communication

Education

Degree in Robotics and Automation or related

Tools

AutoCAD

Job description

• Location: Barnsley, South Yorkshire, United Kingdom

An opportunity has arisen within the Manufacturing department for a Manufacturing Automation Engineer, based primarily at our Barnsley site. As the business continues to invest in capital equipment and technology, this role will play a key part in modernising production through robotics, automation and process optimisation within a complex manufacturing environment. You will join us on a full-time, permanent basis, and in return, you will receive a competitive salary.

This role would suit an Automation Engineer with a degree in Robotics and Automation or similar who is focused on delivering practical improvements on the shop floor. The successful candidate will be confident introducing new technology, leading automation projects, and working across teams to improve efficiency, quality, and innovation in key manufacturing processes.

As one of the UK's leading manufacturers of Kitchen, Bedroom and Bathroom fitted furniture, Symphony has had unsuppressed growth, with over 50 years' experience. Our emphasis is on providing a high standard for all our products and the services we offer. We are currently seeking the very best people, to further strengthen our position within the industry by appointing dedicated individuals to share in our success.

The key responsibilities of our Graduate Automation Engineer will include:

• Identify and deliver automation opportunities across manufacturing operations.
• Lead installation, commissioning, and integration of robotic and automated systems
• Develop and optimise robot programs and PLC-controlled processes.
• Conduct cost-benefit analysis and support capital investment decisions.
• Drive continuous improvement using data analysis and Lean methodologies.

As our Graduate Automation Engineer, you willideally have

• A strong understanding of APQP, PFMEA, Six Sigma and Statistical Process Control methodologies.
• Knowledge of manufacturing process design, cell layout and material flow principles.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing techniques and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Project management experience with multiple engineering projects.
• Knowledge of CAD software, ideally AutoCAD.
• A degree in Robotics and Automation or a related discipline.

You must also have:

• Excellent analytical, fault finding and problem-solving ability.
• Strong project management and organisational skills.
• Effective communication and stakeholder management.
• Ability to influence and work collaboratively across cross-functional teams.
• Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on delivering measurable business improvements.
• Ability to quickly learn new technologies and manufacturing processes.
• A full UK driving licence as there will be some travel to other manufacturing sites.