Project Manager, After Sales & Service

ATS Automation Tooling Systems Inc; Ware; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A global automation solutions provider is seeking an experienced Project Manager in Ware, England. The role involves managing automation projects from inception to completion, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to budgetary constraints. Candidates should have a strong background in engineering with at least three years of experience in a lead role, along with excellent leadership, negotiation, and problem-solving skills. The company offers a dynamic work environment focused on collaboration and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing automation projects with multi-disciplinary teams.
• Minimum of three years in a lead role on diverse projects.
• Strong manufacturing or process engineering background preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage projects from initiation to completion ensuring timely delivery.
• Develop project budgets and accurately allocate costs.
• Oversee project schedules using Gantt charts and critical path analysis.

Skills

Leadership

Problem Solving

Negotiation & Deal-Making

Customer Relationship Management

Education

Post-secondary diploma or university degree in Engineering

Project Management Professional (PMP) designation

Tools

Microsoft software

AutoCAD or similar CAD/drawing packages

Job description

Job Description

Responsible for managing projects from initiation to completion, ensuring delivery on time, within budget, and in compliance with quality and safety standards. This includes comprehensive planning, execution, and closure of projects, effective resource scheduling, and clear communication with all stakeholders.

As a key member of the UK/Ireland Global Service Team, this role involves active participation in ATS daily stand‑ups, weekly syncs, and broader team meetings. The individual is expected to provide coverage for team members when needed and contribute to the continuous professional development of the team by sharing knowledge, mentoring, and promoting best practices.

Responsibilities

• Defining Project Scope, Goals, and Objectives; act as central point for resolving all technical queries, both internally and externally, ensuring alignment and clarity throughout the project lifecycle.
• Budget Development – Create accurate budget allocations for ATS labour and materials using the Cost Book, ensuring financial feasibility and alignment with project goals.
• Schedule Planning – Oversee the development of detailed project schedules using tools such as Gantt charts, identifying critical path activities and key milestones to ensure timely delivery.
• Project Initiation – Lead the Initial Project Delivery Plan process, including kick‑off and alignment meetings, to establish a shared understanding of project objectives, timelines, and responsibilities.
• Resource Management – Ensure adequate resource allocation across all project tasks, using RACI matrices to define roles and responsibilities clearly.
• Systems Data Maintenance – Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date project data in ERP systems such as Oracle Cloud, supporting transparency and informed decision‑making.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration – Foster close cooperation with relevant departments and interface teams to ensure seamless integration and execution across all project phases.
• Team Selection and Oversight – Identify, select, and manage project teams, ensuring optimal resource allocation and fostering strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Resource Planning and Scheduling – Develop and maintain detailed resource plans and schedules, aligning team availability with project timelines and deliverables.
• Absence and Conflict Management – Proactively manage the impact of unplanned absences (e.g., sickness) and resolve resource scheduling conflicts to maintain project momentum.
• Customer Site Coordination – Oversee and manage customer site entry requirements, ensuring all team members meet necessary compliance and access protocols.
• Project Execution – Implement project plans effectively, ensuring all activities are completed on time, within budget, and in alignment with defined scope and quality standards; monitor progress continuously, identify and resolve issues promptly; uphold safety, ethical, and HSE standards; implement corrective actions for unsafe conditions.

Qualifications

Education

• Post‑secondary college diploma or university degree in Engineering, specializing in Electronics, Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Engineering.
• Completion of, or active progress toward, the Project Management Professional (PMP) designation is considered an asset.

Experience

• Proven experience managing automation projects, involving multi‑disciplinary teams.
• Demonstrated leadership and coordination skills in managing complex project design and construction teams.
• Minimum of three years in a lead role on diverse, multi‑discipline projects across various markets.
• Strong preference for candidates with a solid manufacturing or process engineering background, superior mechanical aptitude, proven troubleshooting skills, ability to work effectively with customers under tight deadlines and high‑pressure conditions.
• Proficiency in Microsoft software, AutoCAD or similar CAD/drawing packages.

Key Attributes

• Leadership – Inspires and guides teams to successful outcomes.
• Negotiation & Deal‑Making – Skilled in stakeholder alignment and contract negotiation.
• Problem Solving – Analytical thinker with a proactive approach to challenges.
• Customer Relationship Management – Builds trust and ensures satisfaction.
• Technical Expertise – Deep understanding of engineering principles and systems.
• Business Acumen – Strong grasp of commercial and operational project drivers.