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- Tasks: Support and improve automation systems while leading exciting projects.
- Company: Join KP Snacks, a fun-loving team that values your unique contributions.
- Benefits: Enjoy bonuses, healthcare support, 25 days holiday, and more perks.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on automation standards in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: HNC or above in engineering, with a background in automation.
- Other info: Be part of a close-knit culture that celebrates diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Ashby de la Zouch (Home of Hula Hoops, Space Raiders, Nik Naks and more) – On-site Monday - Friday Days (some flexibility required)
We are looking for an Automation Engineer to join us at KP Snacks. If you are ready to bring your ideas to the table, grow your skills and be part of a team that values what makes you, you - this could be your next big move.
About the role
You will be responsible for supporting and improving our automation systems, leading site projects and ensuring safe, efficient operations. This is a hands-on role where you will work closely with colleagues across Engineering, Manufacturing and Technical to deliver automation solutions that make a real difference.
What's in it for you?
- Annual bonus scheme, with a strong track record of overachievement
- Comprehensive healthcare support - including Medicash Health Cash Plan or Private Healthcare, Digital GP, Best Doctors second opinion service and specialist cancer care
- KP Pension Plan - contribution matching up to 7% of your salary
- 25 days holiday, plus the option to buy more
- KP4ME - our online platform for benefits, discounts, wellbeing tools and more
What will you be doing?
- Lead automation and PLC support across the Ashby site, building fault-finding capability across all shifts
- Tackle automation challenges with confidence, including obsolescence upgrades and CAPEX project delivery
- Collaborate with site teams, suppliers and contractors to deliver automation projects from concept to completion
- Make a real impact on automation standards, training and coaching - ensuring safe systems and consistent processes
- Learn and grow through cross-functional teamwork, supporting both site-driven and centrally driven engineering projects
- Support 24/7 emergency cover and ensure automation systems are available and safeguarded at all times
- Drive continuous improvement through Intersnack Work Systems and Initiative Management principles
- Ensure compliance with Health and Safety, Environment and Hygiene policies, with a focus on safe working practices
- Manage automation documentation, contracts and warranties, ensuring systems are fit for purpose and aligned with KP Snacks standards
Who are we?
We are KP Snacks, part of the Intersnack family. Across more than 30 countries, over 15,000 of us work together to make the snacks people love - from Hula Hoops to McCoy's. In the UK, we are a team of around 2,400 colleagues, based across seven sites and our Slough HQ. We are proud of our close-knit culture, where we speak up, celebrate differences and push boundaries together.
We are committed to inclusion
We are building a workplace where everyone belongs. If you do not tick every box, we would still love to hear from you - your unique perspective could be just what we need. And if there is anything we can do to make the process easier for you, just let us know.
We would love to hear from you if you can bring:
Qualifications & Background:
- HNC or above in an engineering discipline, or time-served apprenticeship with strong practical experience
- A background in automation engineering
- A solid foundation in electrical engineering and control systems
Technical Experience:
- Siemens (essential) and TIA Portal (desirable but not essential)
- Other PLC systems such as GX Works, CX Programmer, Rockwell Automation
- MES platforms and data collection systems
- Operational technology and energy management systems
Project & CI Experience:
- Providing hands-on coaching and development to wider teams in automation engineering (essential)
- 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 Engineer in London employer: KP Snacks
Contact Detail:
KP Snacks Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Automation Engineer in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at KP Snacks on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your automation knowledge, especially with Siemens and TIA Portal. We want to see your passion for the role, so be ready to discuss how you've tackled automation challenges in the past.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your teamwork skills! Since this role involves collaborating with various teams, share examples of how you've successfully worked with others to deliver projects. We love a good team player!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our snack-loving team at KP Snacks.
We think you need these skills to ace Automation Engineer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Automation: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for automation engineering shine through! Share specific examples of projects you've worked on or challenges you've tackled that highlight your skills and passion for the field.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Automation Engineer role. Use keywords from the job description and relate your experience directly to the responsibilities mentioned. This shows us you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid jargon and fluff. Highlight your key achievements and skills in a way that’s easy for us to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to track your application status. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised on our end!
How to prepare for a job interview at KP Snacks
✨Know Your Automation Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of automation systems, especially Siemens and TIA Portal. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on and how you tackled challenges in automation engineering.
✨Show Off Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves collaboration with various teams, think of examples where you've successfully worked with others. Highlight your experience in coaching and developing team members in automation practices.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Prepare for technical questions related to PLC systems and operational technology. You might be asked to solve a problem on the spot, so practice explaining your thought process clearly and confidently.
✨Understand Their Culture
KP Snacks values a close-knit culture and inclusion. Familiarise yourself with their products and company values. Be prepared to discuss how your unique perspective can contribute to their team and culture.
