Manufacturing Automation Engineer

New Appointments Group; Whitstable; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer in Whitstable to focus on automation and support new product introduction (NPI) projects. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment, possess a degree in Mechanical Engineering, and have strong problem-solving and communication skills. Responsibilities include implementing automation solutions and supporting production improvements. This full-time position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to significant engineering projects.

Qualifications

• 5+ years' experience in a manufacturing/engineering environment.
• Working towards or holding IEng/CEng status.
• Basic understanding of PLCs, HMIs, sensors and automation concepts.

Responsibilities

• Support NPI projects, engineering changes and process design.
• Identify and implement process, equipment and automation solutions.
• Investigate production/quality issues and recommend corrective actions.

Skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Teamworking skills

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering or similar

Tools

Creo

PDM systems

ERP/MRP systems

Job description

Manufacturing Engineer (Automation)

Location: Whitstable

Position: Full time

We're looking for a Manufacturing Engineer with a strong focus on automation to support NPI, process development, production improvement, and troubleshooting across our manufacturing site.

Key Responsibilities

• Support NPI projects, engineering changes and process design.
• Assist with DFMEA/PFMEA, APQP tools and PPAP deliverables.
• Identify and implement process, equipment and automation solutions (robotics, PLC/HMI, vision, conveyors, assembly/test automation).
• Carry out prototype builds, process validation and create workstation documentation.
• Support tooling and gauging design.
• Provide installation/commissioning support for automated equipment.
• Investigate production/quality issues and recommend corrective actions.
• Work with engineering drawings, PDM systems and ERP/MRP tools.
• Support ISO 9001/AS9100 audits and supplier/customer quality investigations.
• Contribute to continuous improvement activities.

About You

Essential

• Degree (Level 6/BEng) in Mechanical Engineering or similar.
• 5+ years' experience in a manufacturing/engineering environment.
• Working towards or holding IEng/CEng status.
• CAD experience (preferably Creo), plus PDM and ERP/MRP proficiency.
• Able to interpret engineering drawings and documentation.
• Basic understanding of PLCs, HMIs, sensors and automation concepts.
• Strong communication, problem‑solving and teamworking skills.

Desirable

• MEng/Level 7 qualification.
• 10+ years' engineering experience.
• Experience delivering automated workstations/cells.
• PLC programming, robotics integration and machine safety experience.
• Six Sigma, project management and aerospace standards knowledge.

Additional Responsibilities

• Follow site Health & Safety procedures.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and quality systems.

Equal Employment Opportunity

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment in line with the Equality Act 2010. All qualified applicants will be considered regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.