Project Manager

Contek Recruitment Solutions Ltd; Tamworth; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A family-run design and manufacturing firm located in Tamworth is seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead complex automation and robotics projects. The role involves managing project delivery, ensuring quality standards, and coordinating cross-functional teams. Candidates should have a technical degree, 5+ years of relevant experience, and strong communication skills. This position offers a competitive salary, annual leave, and a collaborative work environment focused on innovation in automation solutions.

Benefits

Competitive salary + performance bonus

25 days annual leave + bank holidays

Company pension scheme

Life assurance

Professional development support

Qualifications

• 5+ years of project management experience in industrial automation.
• Proven track record in delivering complex automation projects.
• Strong technical understanding of industrial automation components.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end delivery of industrial automation projects.
• Develop project plans, schedules, and budgets using industry-standard tools.
• Serve as primary contact for clients, ensuring clear communication.

Skills

Project management

Communication

Technical knowledge in industrial automation

Budget management

Risk management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, or related field

Tools

MS Project

Jira

Primavera

Job description

Project Manager - Automation & Robotics Solutions

Location: Tamworth / On‑site as required

Reports to: Managing Director

Employment Type: Full‑time, Permanent

About the Company

A family‑run design and manufacturing firm, specialising in cutting‑edge automation and robotics solutions for industrial clients across various sectors, including manufacturing, logistics, and automotive. From concept design and prototyping to full system integration and ongoing support, the company delivers turnkey robotic cells, custom automated production lines, and advanced material handling systems that enhance efficiency, precision, and competitiveness.

Role Overview

An experienced Project Manager is sought to lead complex, multi‑disciplinary automation and robotics projects from initial client engagement through to successful handover and commissioning. The role demands delivering projects on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards while managing cross‑functional teams, including mechanical/electrical design engineers, robotics specialists, software developers, manufacturing, installation crews, and subcontractors. A strong technical understanding of industrial automation combined with proven project leadership in a fast‑paced, engineering‑driven environment is essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead end‑to‑end delivery of industrial automation and robotics projects, including robotic cells, automated assembly lines, vision‑guided systems, conveyor integrations, PLC/SCADA controlled solutions, and custom machinery.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive project plans, schedules, resource allocation, budgets, and risk registers using industry‑standard tools (e.g., MS Project, Primavera, Jira).
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, ensuring clear communication of progress, risks, changes, and expectations.
• Coordinate and manage internal teams (engineering, design, manufacturing, procurement, software, controls) and external partners/subcontractors.
• Monitor project progress, track milestones, manage scope changes, and implement corrective actions to keep projects on track.
• Conduct regular project reviews, status reporting, and forecasting (financial, technical, and schedule).
• Manage project budget and cost control, including variation orders, claims management, and profitability tracking.
• Ensure compliance with health & safety, quality standards (ISO 9001, etc.), and relevant industry regulations throughout the project lifecycle.
• Oversee site installation, commissioning, testing, training, and handover to the client.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements, lessons learned, and continuous enhancement of project delivery methodology.
• Support pre‑sales activities when required (scope definition, risk assessment, estimating).

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Engineering, Robotics, or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum 5+ years of project management experience in industrial automation, robotics integration, special‑purpose machinery, or similar manufacturing/engineering projects.
• Proven track record delivering complex, multi‑million automation/robotics projects (turnkey systems preferred).
• Strong technical knowledge of industrial automation components: industrial robots (Fanuc, ABB, KUKA, Yaskawa, etc.), PLC programming (Siemens, Allen‑Bradley, etc.), vision systems, conveyors, safety systems, and control architectures.
• Experience with project management methodologies (PMP, PRINCE2, Agile/hybrid approaches) — certification is a strong advantage.
• Proficiency in project management software (MS Project, Jira, Primavera, MS Office Suite).
• Excellent client‑facing communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally (up to 30‑40% depending on project phase).

Desirable Skills & Attributes

• Experience with risk management in technically complex projects.
• Familiarity with LEAN manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Knowledge of electrical/mechanical design tools (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, EPLAN).
• Understanding of Industry 4.0, IoT integration, and digital twin concepts.
• Strong commercial acumen with experience in contract & variation management.
• Results‑driven with exceptional problem‑solving and decision‑making abilities.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure in dynamic, deadline‑focused environments.

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary + performance bonus.
• 25 days annual leave + bank holidays.
• Company pension scheme.
• Life assurance.
• Professional development support.
• Work on cutting‑edge robotics and automation projects.
• Collaborative, innovative company culture.

If you are passionate about delivering world‑class automation solutions and possess the leadership skills to drive complex robotics projects to success, your application would be highly valued. Apply today.