Manufacturing Automation Engineer

Northwest UK | Permanent | Days

A long-established engineering business with over a century of innovation is looking for a Manufacturing Automation Engineer to support the introduction of automated welding and assembly across its Northwest site. The company supplies high-quality engineered solutions to defence customers worldwide and is actively investing in modernising its manufacturing capability.

What you'll be doing:

Identifying processes suitable for automation and defining technical requirements for robotic welding cells, CNC fabrication centres, and automated handling systems

Supporting CAPEX activity through business case analysis (CBA and ROI)

Leading installation 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

Working with Maintenance to establish preventative maintenance schedules for automated systems

Driving continuous improvement using Lean tools and process data to reduce scrap and improve cycle times

Designing and refining jigs and fixtures to improve dimensional accuracy

Creating SOPs, technical documentation, and leading FMEAs for automated lines

Ensuring compliance with EHS standards including CE/UKCA and PUWER

Supporting NPI with Design for Manufacture input

Mentoring operators in robot safety and intervention procedures

Coordinating across Quality, Production, and Maintenance teams

What you need:

HND or degree in Manufacturing, Engineering, or Mechatronics

Proven experience in an automation-focused manufacturing role

Proficiency in at least one major robot language plus experience with PLCs and HMIs

Background in Lean Manufacturing, process planning, and data-driven optimisation (cycle time, takt, RFT)

Understanding of large-scale manufacturing and quality tools (Six Sigma/Lean)

Practical NPI experience

Ability to identify technical, cost, and schedule risks with knowledge of relevant HSE regulations

Strong IT skills including Microsoft Office

Project management accreditation (PRINCE2, Agile, PMP) and Lean/Six Sigma certification beneficial

What's on offer:

Competitive salary

Attractive pension scheme with enhanced employer contribution

Half-day Fridays

Life assurance and company sick pay (increasing with service)

Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing initiatives

Additional holiday and long-service rewards

Cycle-to-work scheme, free on-site parking, and EV charging

This is a permanent role with a respected defence manufacturer that is actively investing in automation across its production lines. The business holds Gold-level Armed Forces Covenant status and welcomes applications from service leavers, reservists, and cadet force volunteers.

Data Protection Notice: By applying for this position, you consent to Recruit Engineering processing and storing your personal data, including your CV, contact details, and any other relevant information, for the purpose of providing work-finding services. This consent includes forwarding your details to our clients and storing your information on our recruitment software database. Your consent will last for two years, and you can withdraw it at any time by contacting us in writing or via email