Lead Automation Engineer - Injection Moulding & Robotics

Azenta Life Sciences; Wotton; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Azenta UK, Ltd. in the United Kingdom is seeking an Automation Engineer to design, implement and optimise automation systems within an injection moulding environment.

You will lead projects, integrate robotics and automation, and work with production and quality teams to improve efficiency and reliability. The role requires hands-on PLC programming, robotics experience (FANUC preferred), and a proactive approach to problem-solving, maintenance planning, and continuous improvement while upholding

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent in Automation/Electrical/Mechatronics or related discipline.
• Minimum 3 years automation engineering in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience with injection moulding and related automation systems.
• Strong PLC programming and industrial control systems knowledge.
• Experience with robotic programming and integration (e.g. FANUC).
• Ability to read electrical schematics and drawings.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Understanding of IQ/OQ/PQ validation.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement automated manufacturing solutions for injection moulding and secondary assembly processes.
• Support integration of robotic systems, conveyors, automated inspection equipment, and material handling systems.
• Evaluate existing manufacturing processes and identify opportunities for automation and productivity improvements.
• Lead automation projects from concept through validation and production release.
• Provide technical support for automated production equipment.
• Troubleshoot and resolve automation, controls, and robotics-related issues to minimise downtime.
• Develop preventative maintenance strategies for automation equipment.
• Ensure manufacturing processes achieve required cycle times, quality standards, and productivity targets.
• Develop automated solutions to support new tooling, assembly, and inspection requirements.
• Participate in Design for Manufacture (DFM) and Design for Automation (DFA) reviews.
• Assist with process validation activities including IQ, OQ, and PQ where applicable.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on OEE, scrap reduction, cycle time reduction, and labour efficiency.
• Utilise Lean Manufacturing methodologies to improve operational performance.
• Implement and utilise data collection and monitoring systems to support performance analysis and decision-making.
• Ensure all automation systems comply with relevant machinery safety standards and company policies.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement safeguarding measures for automated equipment.
• Support compliance with quality management systems, including ISO 9001 and ISO 13485 where applicable.
• Maintain accurate engineering documentation, including electrical drawings, specifications, and validation records.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Communication & stakeholder management

Project leadership

Independent work

Continuous improvement

Safety awareness

Education

Engineering degree or equivalent (Automation/Electrical/Mechatronics)

Lean Six Sigma qualification

Tools

CAD (SolidWorks)

FANUC robotics programming

Job description

Azenta UK, Ltd. in the United Kingdom is seeking an Automation Engineer to design, implement and optimise automation systems within an injection moulding environment.

You will lead projects, integrate robotics and automation, and work with production and quality teams to improve efficiency and reliability. The role requires hands-on PLC programming, robotics experience (FANUC preferred), and a proactive approach to problem-solving, maintenance planning, and continuous improvement while upholding