Process Automation Engineer (12 month FTC) in Croydon

Zotefoams plc is a world leader in cellular material technology, with facilities in Croydon, UK; Kentucky and Oklahoma, USA; Brzeg, Poland; and Jiangsu Province, China (T-FIT). We produce lightweight foams for a wide range of markets including sports and leisure, aviation, automotive, and healthcare. Zotefoams also owns and licenses patented technology and supplies advanced insulation systems. The Company is on a strong growth trajectory, with significant revenue and profitability increases in recent years and ambitious plans for the future.

About the Role:

As a Process Automation Engineer, you’ll be responsible for developing, implementing and sustaining automation solutions across the manufacturing site. The focus is on improving safety, quality, productivity and cost through automation, while managing projects from concept through to delivery in line with operational and long-term business needs.

Role Responsibilities:

• Design, develop and implement automation solutions across manufacturing, including control systems, material handling, inspection and data capture.
• Lead automation projects from concept through to commissioning, ensuring solutions are safe, scalable and aligned to operational needs.
• Deliver automation projects to agreed scope, cost, quality and timelines.
• Manage risks and ensure delivery of expected project benefits.
• Develop future automation projects aligned with site priorities and business strategy.
• Work with suppliers, system integrators and OEMs to specify, procure and deliver solutions.
• Manage supplier performance, technical compliance and onsite delivery.
• Collaborate with Production, Maintenance, Quality, Engineering, IT and Supply Chain teams.
• Identify opportunities to automate manual or repetitive tasks.
• Improve process efficiency and consistency using PLCs, robotics, sensors, vision systems and monitoring tools.
• Ensure all solutions meet health, safety, quality and machine safety standards.
• Develop and maintain automation standards and documentation.
• Conduct risk assessments and PFMEAs for new systems.
• Embed safe systems of work and promote a strong safety culture.
• Enable robust data capture and system integration for real-time monitoring.
• Use automation data to drive performance improvements and support decision-making and long-term planning.

What you'll need:

• Degree or equivalent experience in Automation, Manufacturing or Production Engineering.
• Experience delivering automation projects in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong project management experience including planning, risk management and stakeholder engagement.
• Knowledge of PLCs, HMI/SCADA and industrial control systems.
• Experience working cross-functionally and with external suppliers.

Desirable:

• Formal project management qualification (e.g. PRINCE2, PMP).
• Experience with robotics, vision systems or advanced sensors.
• Knowledge of MES, IIoT or digital manufacturing platforms.
• Understanding of machine safety and functional safety standards.

What we're looking for:

• A proactive, self-motivated individual who can work independently.
• Strong technical knowledge of automation and control systems.
• Solid project management and delivery capability.
• Analytical and structured problem-solving skills.
• Ability to design, implement and support automated solutions.
• Strong collaboration skills, including working with suppliers and cross-functional teams.
• Good understanding of manufacturing processes and performance metrics.
• Clear communication skills with both technical and non-technical audiences.
• A continuous improvement mindset with a focus on delivering business value.

Why Join Us?

At Zotefoams, we believe in fostering a supportive and innovative environment where everybody can thrive. By joining us, you will be part of a dynamic team that values collaboration, continuous improvement, and opportunities for professional growth and development.

Our Values:

• Courage - The courage to take bold action to ensure that we succeed in tackling our challenges and opportunities.
• Impact – Dedicated to making a significant and positive impact in everything we do.
• Respect - Cultivate a respectful and inclusive environment where everyone is valued and collaboration is encouraged.

Zotefoams is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.