Robotics Engineer

Thistle Seafoods is one of the largest family-owned manufacturers of quality seafood products in Europe. We supply outstanding products at every price point to leading retail and food service customers within the UK, Europe, USA, Canada and Australia. Our Head Office is based in Peterhead in the North-East of Scotland, and our second site is based in Uddingston in the outskirts of Glasgow. Thistle Seafoods has a fast-paced, challenging, and inclusive working environment. Employees work extremely hard and take great pride in the work they do. We believe in providing all staff with the opportunity to develop and progress and we actively encourage internal promotion.

The Role

In this role you will assume responsibility for the robotics on site. You will assist with designing, implementing, maintaining, and optimising robotic and automation systems to improve production and chilled coding efficiency, safety, and quality. You will work closely with cross-functional teams including production, chilled coding, technical and IT.

Key Duties/Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and integrate robotic systems for automation in food processing and packaging.
• Program and troubleshoot industrial robots (e.g., Omron, FANUC) and related control systems (e.g., PLCs, HMIs).
• Evaluate and improve current automation processes to enhance throughput, reduce waste, and ensure compliance with food safety standards.
• Collaborate with mechanical and electrical engineers to install and commission robotics systems on the production floor.
• Perform root cause analysis and resolve technical issues related to robotics and automation equipment.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations such as FDA, USDA, and GMP standards.
• Train operators and maintenance staff on robotic systems and provide ongoing support and documentation.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and participate in lean manufacturing projects.
• Complete all engineering work to a high level of engineering, quality, safety, and hygiene standards.
• Always adhere to company policies including the personal hygiene policy, using correct manual handling techniques, and always wearing the correct PPE.
• Understand, support, and promote brand integrity and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Robotics, Mechatronics, Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• Experience in robotics or automation, preferably in the food or consumer goods manufacturing sector.
• Proficiency in programming and configuring industrial robots and PLCs.
• Knowledge of safety systems, machine vision, and sensor integration.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Familiarity with CAD and simulation software for system design and layout planning.
• Understanding of HACCP, SQF, or BRC standards.

Physical Demands of Role

• Work in confined spaces whether this is inside machines or in areas such as the roof voids.
• Working at height and having the ability to climb ladders and into scissor lifts.
• Machine breakdowns requiring lengthy periods of time on feet to resolve and close out errors.
• Repair and usage of machinery onsite.

Hours of Work

Normal contractual hours of work will be 45 hours per week. You will work five days in any seven and you will work nine hours per day. Working times will vary and will depend on the demands of the role and the needs of the business.

If you would like to be considered for this excellent opportunity, then please upload your CV to this job post. No agencies. Your speculative emails will be deleted. We currently have preferred partners.