Graduate Mechatronics Engineer in Cheshire, Knutsford

Job Description

Role: Graduate Mechatronics Engineer

Location: Knutsford, Parkgate Industrial Estate

Working Hours: Mon-Fri, 8:30am till 5pm. 40 hours per week

We are seeking a Graduate Mechatronics Engineer to support the development, integration and continuous improvement of automated R&D and production systems. This is a hybrid role combining hands-on engineering with PLC/software development, electrical, mechanical and instrumentation work.

You will take ownership of engineering problems from investigation through to implementation, commissioning and documentation, with a strong focus on understanding existing equipment, troubleshooting systematically and integrating practical improvements.

About Us

With over 45 years of valve technology innovation, Oliver Valves is a global leader in the design, manufacture and supply of high-quality valves and valve systems for oil and gas, petrochemical and other critical sectors. We are a profitable, privately owned and fast-moving company with recognised awards for Export, Manufacturing, Growth and Industry.

What You'll Be Doing

• PLC & Automation: Develop, modify, fault-find and commission PLC-based automation systems, including CODESYS / IEC 61131-3 applications.
• R&D Test Systems: Support test rigs, control panels, instrumentation and data acquisition used with valves, actuators, motors, sensors and pressure equipment.
• Hands-On Engineering: Assemble, wire, modify and fault-find equipment using schematics, P&IDs, wiring diagrams and technical manuals.
• Software & Connectivity: Develop Python, Linux and browser-based HMI solutions and work with EtherCAT, Modbus, OPC UA and industrial Ethernet.
• Problem Solving: Investigate issues systematically, understand existing systems before making changes, test and verify improvements before deployment.
• Project Ownership: Source components, maintain configuration control, document changes and support commissioning across R&D and production.

The Tech Stack You'll Use

• PLC & Control: CODESYS V3, IEC 61131-3 Structured Text, Beckhoff I/O and EtherCAT.
• Coding & Systems: Python, Linux, HTML, JavaScript and CSS.
• Communications: OPC UA, Modbus TCP/RTU and industrial Ethernet.
• Hardware & Design: Pressure instrumentation, sensors, motors, drives, actuators, control panels, SolidWorks and AutoCAD.

What You'll Bring

• A degree-level qualification in Mechatronics, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Automation, Control Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• Practical engineering experience gained through employment, an industrial placement, university projects, Formula Student, personal projects or similar.
• Hands-on experience building, wiring, commissioning, repairing or modifying engineering equipment.
• Some practical PLC or industrial automation experience, including writing, modifying or fault-finding control logic.
• The ability to interpret electrical schematics and/or P&IDs, with a basic understanding of sensors, actuators and instrumentation.
• A proactive problem solver: able to investigate independently, troubleshoot systematically and take ownership through to a verified solution.
• Practical, collaborative and safety conscious: comfortable working independently, communicating clearly and learning unfamiliar systems quickly.

What's On Offer?

• Competitive salary (£27k-£32k) + Discretionary Bonus.
• Comprehensive Medical Cash Plan (Dental, Physio, etc.).
• A company pension scheme with an employer contribution of 4% to help you plan for the future.
• A clear path for career development in a multi-award-winning engineering firm (x2 Queen's Award winners) within a King's Award-winning group. We offer world-class mentorship in a high-growth, prestigious environment.
• Long service awards, recognising your continued commitment.
• Increased annual leave based on length of service.
• Access to an Employee Assistance Programme, offering free and confidential support.
• Monday to Friday (8:30 am - 5:00 pm) - No weekend shifts.