Manufacturing Engineer Automation
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