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- Tasks: Lead on-site testing and commissioning of advanced automated systems.
- Company: Join ATA Recruitment, a leader in engineering recruitment across various sectors.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, Monday to Friday schedule, and hands-on experience in automation.
- Why this job: Be part of innovative projects that impact manufacturing and automation industries.
- Qualifications: Experience in automation testing, ECS/CSCS card required, and strong technical skills.
- Other info: This role is outside IR35 and offers a 6-month contract.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
Sector: Automation / Manufacturing / Engineering (Not IT)
Rate: £350–£400 per day (Location Dependent)
Contract: 6 Months Initially | Monday–Friday, 07:00–17:00
About the Role
We’re looking for a highly skilled Test Manager / Commissioning Engineer to lead the on-site commissioning, testing, and validation of cutting-edge automated systems. This is a hands-on role ensuring every system performs exactly as specified—meeting customer needs and safety standards from day one.
You’ll be key to delivering high-performance automation systems across sectors like manufacturing and materials handling. If you thrive in fast-paced environments and enjoy getting under the hood of complex systems, this role is for you.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Testing & Commissioning
- Develop and execute detailed test plans (e.g., SATs, performance tests)
- Ensure full alignment with technical specifications and safety regulations
- Fault Management
- Log, track, and resolve system defects using tools such as Jira
- Manage retesting cycles and provide fix validation
- Stress & Volume Testing
- Run system stress tests to identify potential failure points
- Evaluate performance under peak load conditions
- Reporting & Communication
- Keep the Lead System Integration Manager (SIM) and Project Manager informed
- Support dashboards and reporting with accurate, timely data
- Customer-Facing Work
- Act as the go-to contact for client-side test requirements
- Ensure clear communication and alignment throughout the test cycle
- Technical Oversight
- Supervise WCS and PLC testing during system integration
- Validate communications between hardware/software layers
What We’re Looking For
- Proven background in automation testing and commissioning
- Experience with material handling systems (conveyors, shuttles, TMS, cranes)
- Strong knowledge of PLCs, SCADA systems, and software-hardware messaging
- Familiarity with WCS/WMS (e.g., SAP WMS) and data flow analysis
- Solid mechanical/electrical system understanding (qualifications a plus)
- Skilled in system volume/stress testing and troubleshooting
- Proficient in Excel for data validation and reporting
- ECS/CSCS card essential for on-site operations
- Prior experience as a Test Manager or Commissioning Engineer in relevant sectors
Your Typical Day
- Join a morning planning meeting with the System Integration Manager
- Execute tests, log results, and track progress
- Troubleshoot system issues with the wider team
- Collaborate with clients and internal teams to meet key milestones
How to Apply
Ready to take on a vital role in a high-impact automation project? ATA Recruitment specialises in Manufacturing, Infrastructure, Civil, Transportation and general Engineering recruitment on both a permanent and contract basis.
By applying you accept the terms of our Privacy Notice which can be found on our website. To be considered for this role please either hit the 'Apply' button on this site or email your CV directly to (url removed). You must be eligible to live and work within the UK. Sponsorship is not provided.
ATA is committed to creating a diverse workforce and is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.
Test Manager/Commissioning Engineer employer: ATA Recruitment
Contact Detail:
ATA Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Test Manager/Commissioning Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in automation and commissioning. Being knowledgeable about cutting-edge systems will not only boost your confidence but also impress potential employers during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the automation and engineering sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who can provide insights or even refer you to job openings.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical interviews by practising common questions related to PLCs, SCADA systems, and fault management. Being able to articulate your experience and knowledge clearly will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your hands-on experience with material handling systems in conversations. Discuss specific projects where you successfully managed testing and commissioning, as this will demonstrate your practical skills and relevance to the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Test Manager/Commissioning Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in automation testing and commissioning. Emphasise your familiarity with material handling systems and any specific technologies mentioned in the job description, such as PLCs and SCADA systems.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and your understanding of the responsibilities. Mention your hands-on experience with testing and commissioning, and how you can contribute to delivering high-performance automation systems.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your skills in fault management, stress testing, and data validation using Excel. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed similar tasks in previous roles.
Showcase Communication Abilities: Since the role involves customer-facing work, emphasise your communication skills. Include examples of how you've effectively collaborated with clients and internal teams to meet project milestones.
How to prepare for a job interview at ATA Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your experience with automation testing and commissioning in detail. Highlight specific projects where you've successfully implemented test plans, managed defects, or conducted stress tests. This will demonstrate your hands-on knowledge and suitability for the role.
✨Understand the Company’s Needs
Research the company and its projects before the interview. Understand their focus on automation in manufacturing and materials handling. Tailor your responses to show how your skills align with their specific requirements and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-world scenarios. Prepare examples of how you've handled system defects, communicated with clients, or managed testing cycles. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers effectively.
✨Demonstrate Strong Communication Skills
As a Test Manager/Commissioning Engineer, clear communication is key. Be ready to explain complex technical concepts in simple terms, especially when discussing client-side requirements. Show that you can keep stakeholders informed and aligned throughout the testing process.
