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- Tasks: Join our team as an Automation Engineer, leading projects and optimising systems across two manufacturing sites.
- Company: KP Snacks is a vibrant company creating your favourite snacks, part of the global Intersnack family.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 5% bonus scheme, comprehensive healthcare, 25 days holiday, and access to wellness resources.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team where your contributions make a real impact in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: HNC or above in engineering, with hands-on automation experience, preferably in food manufacturing.
- Other info: Diversity is key; we welcome unique perspectives and encourage all to apply.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Automation Engineer based in Pontefract & Hellaby (Field-based role with a UK-wide remit). Full-time, site-based across two of our modern manufacturing sites.
Are you a passionate automation specialist with a strong engineering background and a flair for solving problems? Ready to take the next step in your career within a supportive and high-performing team? We’re looking for an Automation Engineer to join our Central Engineering Team and help drive the automation agenda across our Pontefract and Hellaby sites.
What you’ll be doing:
- Lead and support automation projects from concept through to full handover, including installation and commissioning.
- Use your knowledge to contribute to Continuous Improvement (CI) initiatives, site efficiency, and system optimisation.
- Be a key stakeholder in capital projects, collaborating cross-functionally to deliver technical solutions that support our broader business goals.
- Work with operational technology infrastructure and energy management systems.
- Support our Manufacturing Execution System (MES) for effective data collection and production insight.
- Ensure our systems meet all compliance, legislative, and food safety requirements.
You’ll work as part of a dynamic, forward-thinking team – with plenty of opportunities to grow, develop, and make a real impact.
What’s in it for you?
- 5% bonus scheme – with an excellent track record of over-achievement.
- Comprehensive Healthcare Support – Access to a Medicash Health Cash Plan or Private Healthcare, including a Digital GP service, Best Doctors (Second Medical Opinion Service), and specialist Cancer Care for peace of mind when you need it most.
- KP Pension Plan - contribution matching up to 7% of your salary.
- 25 days holiday + holiday buy scheme.
- KP4ME - online benefits, discounts, prizes, competitions and information platform with access to mental, physical and financial wellbeing information and tools.
Who are we?
We’re KP Snacks, proud to be part of the Intersnack family. Picture this: over 15,000 of us, spread across more than 30 countries, all working together to create the snacks you love. From Hula Hoops to McCoy's, we’re the team behind your favourite munchies. Here in the UK, we’re about 2,400 strong, spread across seven factories and our Slough HQ. But don’t let our size fool you – we’re as close-knit as they come. We believe in speaking our minds, celebrating our differences, and pushing boundaries together.
Diversity isn’t just a buzzword for us. We’re on a mission to create a workplace where everyone belongs. So, even if you don’t tick every box, we want to hear from you! Your unique perspective could be just what we need. Also, if there’s anything we can do to make this process easier for you, just give us a shout.
We’d love to hear from you if you bring a solid automation background and hands-on experience in a manufacturing setting.
You’ll need:
Qualifications & Background:- HNC or above in an engineering discipline, or time-served apprenticeship with strong practical experience.
- A background in automation engineering – ideally within food manufacturing or FMCG.
- A solid foundation in electrical engineering and control systems.
- Siemens TIA Portal (essential).
- Other PLC systems such as GX Works, CX Programmer, Rockwell Automation.
- MES platforms and data collection systems.
- Operational technology and energy management systems.
- Demonstrated experience in project engineering and management.
- Involvement in maintenance and continuous improvement programmes.
- Familiarity with quality management systems and legislative/food safety compliance.
- Comfortable with budgeting, CapEx processes, and procurement.
Automation Systems Engineer (Wetherby) employer: KP Snacks
Contact Detail:
KP Snacks Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Automation Systems Engineer (Wetherby)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific automation technologies mentioned in the job description, particularly Siemens TIA Portal. Having hands-on experience or projects that showcase your skills with this software can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the food manufacturing sector, especially those who work with automation systems. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues and learn more about the company culture at KP Snacks.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous project management experiences in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've led automation projects from concept to completion, as this will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research KP Snacks and their products thoroughly. Understanding their values, mission, and the specific challenges they face in automation will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show your genuine interest in the company.
We think you need these skills to ace Automation Systems Engineer (Wetherby)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in automation engineering, particularly within food manufacturing or FMCG. Emphasise your hands-on experience and any specific projects you've led that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for automation and problem-solving. Mention specific skills like your experience with Siemens TIA Portal and other PLC systems, and how they relate to the role at KP Snacks.
Highlight Continuous Improvement Experience: In your application, be sure to detail your involvement in continuous improvement initiatives and project management. Provide examples of how you've contributed to site efficiency and system optimisation in previous roles.
Showcase Compliance Knowledge: Demonstrate your understanding of compliance, legislative, and food safety requirements in your application. This could include mentioning any relevant certifications or experiences that show you can meet these standards.
How to prepare for a job interview at KP Snacks
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Make sure to highlight your experience with Siemens TIA Portal and other PLC systems during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you successfully implemented automation solutions, as this will demonstrate your hands-on expertise.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement Experience
Discuss your involvement in Continuous Improvement initiatives and how you've contributed to site efficiency and system optimisation. Providing concrete examples of how you've improved processes will show your potential employer that you're proactive and results-driven.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Familiarise yourself with KP Snacks' values and their commitment to diversity and inclusion. During the interview, express how your unique perspective aligns with their mission to create a workplace where everyone belongs, which can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
Have thoughtful questions ready about the Automation Engineer role and the Central Engineering Team. Inquiring about specific challenges they face or upcoming projects shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
