Robot Programming Manager

MoveATech; Bedford; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A technology solutions provider in Bedford is looking for an experienced Robot Programming & Simulation Manager to lead a small engineering team. This role combines technical expertise with leadership responsibilities, focusing on robot programming and simulation within innovative automation projects. The successful candidate will manage project execution, oversee budgets, and ensure delivery meets specifications, while actively participating in programming and setup of robots. This is an opportunity to take on a hands-on leadership role in an exciting sector.

Benefits

Permanent, full‑time role

Career progression opportunities

Collaborative engineering team

Qualifications

• Hands-on programming of industrial robots like ABB, KUKA, and Fanuc.
• Experience with joining technologies like MIG welding and resistance spot welding.
• Proficiency in robot simulation and offline programming software.
• Strong project management and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of robot and automation engineers.
• Oversee all robot and process aspects of projects.
• Manage project budgets for robot and automation work.
• Ensure delivery meets internal and customer specifications.

Skills

Robot programming

Simulation expertise

Leadership

Project management

Tools

ABB

Fanuc

KUKA

Yaskawa

PLC

Job description

Robot Programming & Simulation Manager

Location: Bedfordshire (on-site)

Job Type: Full-time | Permanent

MoveATech is looking for an experienced Robot Programming & Simulation Manager to lead a small engineering team while staying hands‑on with robot programming, simulation, and automation projects. This is a unique opportunity to combine technical expertise with team leadership in delivering advanced automated assembly solutions across automotive and industrial sectors.

The Role

You will be part of the management team, responsible for all robot and automation processes from concept and simulation through system build, programming, commissioning, and final client handover. You'll lead a small team of engineers and ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and to specification, while still contributing hands‑on to programming and simulation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of robot and automation engineers
• Oversee all robot and process aspects of projects, including:
• Robot programming, simulation, and layout
• Process sequence planning
• Joining technologies (MIG welding, resistance spot welding, bonding, riveting, handling, dosing)
• Manage project budgets for robot and automation work
• Ensure delivery meets internal and customer specifications
• Support order acquisition with technical studies, simulation, and concept layouts
• Hands‑on programming, setup, and commissioning of robots and peripheral equipment

Required Experience

• Hands‑on programming of industrial robots (ABB, Fanuc, KUKA, Yaskawa)
• Experience with MIG welding, resistance spot welding, dosing, riveting, handling, or other joining processes
• Proficiency with robot simulation and offline programming software
• Strong leadership and project management skills

Desirable Experience

• Familiarity with PLCs
• Experience supporting pre‑sales, bids, or concepting>

  What's On Offer

  • Permanent, full‑time role with career progression opportunities
  • Leadership role with a hands‑on technical element
  • Exposure to innovative automation projects across multiple sectors
  • Collaborative and high‑performing engineering team