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- Tasks: Join us as a hands-on Automation Engineer, tackling PLC and controls fault management.
- Company: Be part of one of the UK's most advanced automated distribution centres.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, overtime opportunities, and a standard pension scheme.
- Why this job: This role offers technical challenges and the chance to enhance your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: We seek a multi-skilled engineer with strong electrical and mechanical knowledge and PLC fault-finding skills.
- Other info: You'll lead on shift, support your team, and drive continuous improvement.
The predicted salary is between 34560 - 57600 £ per year.
Automation Engineer
Salary: £57,600 + Overtime (£1,000–£2,000 on top) + Pension
Shifts: 2 nights on / 2 off / 3 days on / 3 off (40 hours per week)
About the Role
We\’re looking for a hands-on Automation Engineer to join one of the UK\’s most advanced automated distribution centres. This is a multi-skilled role with a strong focus on PLC, PC, and controls fault management . You\’ll act as the go-to technical specialist for the shift team, ensuring operationally critical equipment is maintained, optimised, and continuously improved. THIS ROLE IS A MULTI SKILLED MAINTENANCE ENGINEER AS WELL AS BEING THE POINT OF CONTACT FOR AALL PLC ISSUES.
Key Responsibilities
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Act as the technical lead on shift, supporting engineers with PLC/controls issues.
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Take ownership of technical fault management , liaising with wider support networks, contractors, and the customer.
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Carry out root cause analysis and drive continuous improvement to minimise downtime.
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Optimise equipment availability through targeted maintenance activities.
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Manage PLC backup, version control, and change management in line with company standards.
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Deliver on-the-job training and refresher sessions to shift technicians, raising the team\’s technical capability.
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Support data analysis, hardware mapping, and technical tooling requirements.
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Ensure safe working practices and contractor management on automation systems.
What We\’re Looking For
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A multi-skilled engineer with strong electrical and mechanical knowledge.
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PLC fault-finding and modification skills as a minimum (Siemens, Allen Bradley, or similar).
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Background in a fast-paced factory, distribution, or forces engineering environment .
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Strong problem-solving ability and the confidence to take the lead on technical issues.
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Hands-on, motivated, and keen to drive both personal and team development.
What\’s on Offer
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Competitive salary of £57,600 + overtime opportunities (£1,000–£2,000 extra per year).
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A varied and technically challenging role in a flagship automated site .
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Standard pension scheme.
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Ongoing technical and professional development with access to a structured training academy .
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Technical Specialist employer: Pioneer Selection
Contact Detail:
Pioneer Selection Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific PLC systems mentioned in the job description, such as Siemens and Allen Bradley. Having hands-on experience or relevant certifications can really set you apart during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your fault-finding and modification skills. Be prepared to discuss past experiences where you've successfully resolved technical issues, as this will demonstrate your problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your ability to work in a fast-paced environment by highlighting any relevant experience in factories or distribution centres. This will help convey that you're comfortable with the demands of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your approach to continuous improvement and team development. Think of examples where you've contributed to training or mentoring others, as this aligns well with the responsibilities of the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Technical Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with PLC systems, fault management, and any relevant technical skills. Use specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and hands-on experience.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the Automation Engineer role and explain why you are a great fit. Mention your background in fast-paced environments and your ability to lead on technical issues, as these are key aspects of the job.
Highlight Relevant Experience: When detailing your work history, focus on positions where you dealt with automation systems, PLC troubleshooting, and maintenance. Be specific about your contributions and any improvements you made in those roles.
Showcase Continuous Improvement Mindset: Emphasise your commitment to continuous improvement in your application. Provide examples of how you've previously driven efficiency or reduced downtime in your past roles, as this aligns with the company's goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pioneer Selection
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with PLC systems, particularly Siemens or Allen Bradley. Highlight specific examples of fault management and how you've optimised equipment in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Prepare to share instances where you've successfully resolved technical issues. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and illustrate your problem-solving process.
✨Emphasise Team Leadership Experience
Since this role involves acting as a technical lead, be ready to talk about your experience in training and mentoring others. Discuss how you've raised the technical capability of your team in past positions.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Research the company’s values and work environment. Be ready to explain how your personal values align with theirs, especially regarding safety practices and continuous improvement in automation systems.
