At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead automation initiatives and manage the automation lifecycle for key client accounts.
- Company: SmartPA transforms administrative services with innovative tech and a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salaries, yearly bonuses, hybrid work options, and 33 days holiday.
- Other info: Flexible working hours after probation; opportunities for growth and skill development.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team where your creativity drives meaningful impact in the admin industry.
- Qualifications: Expertise in AI/ML, scripting, and project management; relevant experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 27500 - 38500 £ per year.
Job Description
About us
From supporting start-ups to empowering stakeholders at Google and freeing up the time of a leading Travel Tech C‑suite, SmartPA has built a model where technology enhances human capability rather than replaces it. We help people focus on what matters most, while we take care of the systems, tools, and processes that make it possible.
Our Vision is to deliver a world‑class, human‑centred, tech‑enabled PA and admin service that delivers measurable results, today and into the future.
Key Responsibilities and Skills
What you’ll do
As a Tools & Automation Specialist, you’ll be the person who makes work feel easier. You’ll design and build smart automation tools that remove friction, save time, and help teams focus on work that actually matters.
You’ll thrive in a fast‑moving environment where no two days are the same, bringing a human‑centred mindset and a genuine curiosity about how technology can work better for people – not the other way around. This is a role for someone who enjoys spotting inefficiencies, building elegant solutions, and changing the way teams get things done.
What your day will look like
- Building and rolling out automation tools and frameworks that simplify and improve everyday business operations.
- Spotting opportunities where automation can make the biggest impact – then leading the charge to turn ideas into reality.
- Creating scalable, future‑ready solutions that work across different areas of the business.
- Helping stakeholders rethink how things are done, using automation to make processes smarter, faster, and more impactful.
- Owning projects end‑to‑end – from idea to launch – and clearly showing the value and results they deliver.
- Bringing insights to life by presenting data, visuals, and recommendations in a way that tells a compelling story.
The Impact you’ll have
Your work will free up time and capacity for high‑performing teams, helping them move faster, innovate more, and deliver better experiences. You’ll support major technology breakthroughs, enhance UX, and boost productivity across both our client and SmartPA teams. In short: you’re a force multiplier – unlocking capacity, enabling innovation, and making great work happen at scale.
Experience
What you’ll need
Essential:
- 4–6 years in a technology environment, ideally covering full‑stack development and the end‑to‑end application lifecycle (design, build, deploy, maintain)
- 2+ years programming in languages like JavaScript, Python, Java (or equivalent), with experience in frontend frameworks (React, Angular, Vue) and backend platforms (Node.js, Java, Python)
- Solid knowledge of SQL databases, including data modelling, writing efficient queries, and tuning performance
- Familiarity with Agile methodologies and process improvement techniques (Lean, Six Sigma)
- Strong analytical skills, able to translate business operations into technical solutions that deliver measurable results.
Desirable:
- Experience automating business tools and workflows within the Google ecosystem (Workspace, Cloud, etc.).
- Understanding of databases, REST APIs, system integration, networking, and cloud environments.
- Experience managing runtime environments and supporting production applications.
- Demonstrated ability to identify data‑driven opportunities and establish success metrics.
- Proven track record in setting up and maintaining key business or product performance dashboards.
Work Remotely
Hybrid work for those based at Edinburgh Head Office
Remote working for those in wider areas
Salary
£30,000 - £40,000 depending on demonstrable experience
Schedule
Monday - Friday, 9am - 5.30pm (core hours 10am - 4.30pm)
Job Type
Full‑time, permanent
What’s in it for you?
- Competitive Salaries
- Yearly Bonuses based on company, department, and individual performance.
- Department based incentives.
- Hybrid / Remote Work
- 33 Days Holiday
- Growth Opportunities: Develop your skills, advance your career and grow with a company reshaping the industry.
What excites you more?
- Working at the intersection of human‑centred design and cutting‑edge technology for a global tech client – where your work has real‑world reach.
- Being part of a company with a clear and meaningful purpose: making technology work better for people.
- Owning high‑impact initiatives from start to finish, with the autonomy to shape how things are done and see the results of your work.
- Thriving in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment, surrounded by skilled professionals who value excellence, passion, integrity and collaboration.
- Being supported by a company that genuinely invests in its people – offering well‑rounded benefits, flexibility, and a culture that values wellbeing, growth, and balance, so you can do your best work and enjoy the journey.
Automation Specialist employer: SmartPA
At SmartPA, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions innovation and creativity within a vibrant, client-focused culture. With competitive salaries, flexible working options, and a commitment to employee growth through training and development, we empower our team members to thrive in their careers while enjoying a healthy work-life balance. Join us in Edinburgh or work remotely, and be part of a dynamic team that is reshaping the future of administrative services.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Automation Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest AI and ML technologies, as these are crucial for the Automation Specialist role. Consider taking online courses or attending workshops to deepen your understanding and showcase your commitment to staying current in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the automation and AI sectors. Join relevant online forums or LinkedIn groups where you can engage with others, share insights, and learn about industry trends that could give you an edge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led automation initiatives in the past. Highlight your strategic mindset and how you aligned these projects with business goals, as this will resonate well with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your leadership skills by sharing experiences where you've mentored others or managed teams. This is a key aspect of the role, so be ready to explain how you foster collaboration and drive results within a team setting.
We think you need these skills to ace Automation Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience with AI/ML technologies, scripting, and project management. Use specific examples that demonstrate your leadership skills and strategic mindset, as these are key for the Automation Specialist role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your passion for redefining administrative support and how you thrive in dynamic environments. Mention specific achievements that align with SmartPA's mission and values to show you're a great fit.
Showcase Relevant Experience:When detailing your work history, focus on roles where you've led automation initiatives or integrated AI models. Highlight any experience with compliance, security, and process optimisation, as these are essential for the position.
Proofread and Edit:Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your documents for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for an Automation Specialist.
How to prepare for a job interview at SmartPA
✨Showcase Your AI/ML Expertise
Make sure to highlight your expert-level knowledge in AI and machine learning technologies during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've integrated these technologies into automation pipelines, as this will demonstrate your capability to lead strategic initiatives.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Since the role involves team management, it's crucial to showcase your leadership and mentoring abilities. Share examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past, focusing on your approach to motivating others and driving results.
✨Align Automation with Business Goals
Prepare to discuss how you can align automation strategies with business objectives. Think of instances where you've optimised processes or improved efficiencies that directly contributed to business growth, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to scripting, orchestration, and deployment. Brush up on your knowledge of compliance, security, and industry best practices, as these are essential for the role. Being well-prepared will show your commitment and expertise.
