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- Tasks: Design and build innovative test units and automation solutions for exciting new projects.
- Company: Join Southco, a global leader in engineered access solutions with a rich history.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, work/life balance, and a supportive team culture.
- Other info: Collaborate with a passionate team and grow your career in a thriving company.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on engineering projects while developing your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in manufacturing or automation engineering and hands-on design skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
With over 70 years of engineering excellence and more than 3000 employees in 20 countries, Southco is a global leader for the manufacturing of engineered access solutions. Our products form what we call "touch points", such as locks, latches, fasteners, hinges, handles and many other products that serve virtually hundreds of industries worldwide.
We are seeking an experienced hands-on Manufacturing and Automation Engineer to join our New Projects Team on a 6-month contract basis. Working with a high degree of autonomy, you will take ownership of small-to-medium engineering projects — from initial design through to build and commissioning — supporting the introduction of new product variants and the development of test units and fixtures.
Key Responsibilities- Design and build small test units, jigs, and fixtures from concept through to completion
- Modify and adapt existing equipment to support new product variants and process improvements
- Produce mechanical designs using NX (or equivalent CAD)
- Develop and work with electrical control systems, including Mitsubishi PLCs and HMIs
- Source and manage build activities using the internal tool room, external vendors, and 3D printing
- Work independently on mini-projects with minimal supervision, managing your own schedule and priorities
- Collaborate with the wider New Projects Team to ensure timely delivery of engineering solutions
- Proven background in manufacturing, automation, or mechanical/electrical engineering
- Hands-on mechanical design experience — NX preferred; other 3D CAD tools considered
- Practical knowledge of Mitsubishi PLC programming and HMI configuration
- Ability to work from schematic through to physical build with minimal direction
- Comfortable using tool rooms, working with external fabricators, and leveraging 3D printing for prototyping
- Strong self-management and communication skills — able to work as part of a small project team
- Experience in a similarly varied, project-based engineering environment
- Familiarity with test fixture design or automation of test processes
- Knowledge of PFMEA, OMS, or other manufacturing documentation
Southco employees enjoy an excellent work/life balance, globally competitive compensation, and global and local connections with colleagues from around the world who share the same vision and passion. Being part of the Southco family means being part of a success story that spans for almost a century and is still being written by people just like you today. At Southco our employees are at the heart of what we do, we’re a family and strive to maintain our culture.
Automation Engineer (Contract) in Worcester employer: Southco, Inc.
Contact Detail:
Southco, Inc. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Automation Engineer (Contract) in Worcester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the engineering field, especially those who work at Southco or similar companies. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Get hands-on! If you can, create a small project that showcases your skills in automation and mechanical design. This could be a great conversation starter during interviews and shows your passion for the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of Mitsubishi PLCs and HMI configuration. Be ready to discuss how you've tackled similar challenges in past projects—real examples go a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the Southco family.
We think you need these skills to ace Automation Engineer (Contract) in Worcester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Automation Engineer role. Highlight your hands-on experience in manufacturing and automation, and don’t forget to mention any specific projects you've worked on that relate to the key responsibilities listed in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the role. Share your passion for engineering and how your skills align with Southco’s mission. Keep it concise but impactful!
Showcase Relevant Skills: Be sure to showcase your skills in mechanical design, PLC programming, and HMI configuration. If you’ve got experience with NX or similar CAD tools, make that pop! We want to see how you can contribute to our New Projects Team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining the Southco family. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Southco, Inc.
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your technical skills, especially in areas like NX CAD and Mitsubishi PLC programming. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on that showcase your hands-on experience in manufacturing and automation.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past. Think about times when you modified existing equipment or designed test units from scratch. This will demonstrate your ability to work independently and manage mini-projects effectively.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since strong communication skills are key for this role, practice explaining your engineering concepts in a straightforward way. Be ready to discuss how you collaborate with teams and manage your schedule, as this will show you're a team player who can also work autonomously.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the New Projects Team's current projects or how they approach product development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand if it's the right fit for you.