Manufacturing Automation Engineer
North West England | Permanent | Days
A long‑established engineering manufacturer with more than 100 years of heritage is looking to appoint a Manufacturing Automation Engineer to support the introduction of automated welding and assembly across its North West site.
The business supplies engineered products into the defence sector and is actively investing in automation and modern manufacturing equipment. This role sits at the centre of that programme and will have real influence over how new automated processes are specified, installed and optimised.
The role
You’ll be responsible for identifying and delivering automation opportunities across fabrication and assembly, working closely with Production, Quality, Maintenance and Engineering teams. Typical responsibilities include:
- Identifying manual processes suitable for automation and defining technical requirements for robotic welding cells, CNC fabrication centres and automated handling systems
- Supporting CAPEX activity through cost justification, ROI and business case analysis
- Leading installation activities and Site Acceptance Testing for new robotic systems
- Programming and optimising robot paths for complex geometries using offline programming tools
- Troubleshooting PLC logic and HMI interfaces where required
- Working with Maintenance to establish preventative maintenance plans for automated equipment
- Driving continuous improvement activities to reduce scrap, improve cycle time and increase throughput
- Designing and refining jigs and fixtures to improve dimensional accuracy and repeatability
- Creating SOPs and technical documentation, and leading FMEAs for automated processes
- Ensuring compliance with EHS requirements including CE/UKCA and PUWER
- Supporting NPI activity with Design for Manufacture input
- Training and mentoring operators on robot safety, intervention and basic fault-finding
- Coordinating activity across Quality, Production and Maintenance functions
What you’ll need
- HND or degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Engineering or Mechatronics
- Proven experience in an automation‑focused manufacturing environment
- Experience with industrial robotics, including proficiency in at least one major robot language
- Working knowledge of PLCs and HMIs
- Background in lean manufacturing, process planning and data‑driven improvement
- Experience working in medium to large‑scale manufacturing operations
- Practical NPI experience
- Ability to identify technical, cost and programme risks with a good understanding of HSE requirements
- Strong general IT skills, including Microsoft Office
- Project management qualifications and Lean or Six Sigma certification are beneficial but not essential.
What’s on offer
- Competitive salary
- Enhanced employer pension contribution
- Half‑day Fridays
- Life assurance and company sick pay, increasing with service
- Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing support
- Additional holiday and long‑service rewards
- Cycle‑to‑work scheme
- Free on‑site parking and EV charging
This is a permanent opportunity with a respected defence manufacturer that is actively modernising its production capabilities. The business holds Gold‑level Armed Forces Covenant status and welcomes applications from service leavers, reservists and cadet force volunteers.
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