Automation Engineer

Automation Engineer

Rochester, Kent

Full time, Monday to Friday

Are you an experienced Automation Engineer looking to make a real impact in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment? We are seeking a proactive and technically skilled engineer to support the development, optimisation, and automation of manufacturing processes, helping to improve productivity, quality, and operational efficiency.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing engineering team where you will play a key role in continuous improvement projects, automation developments, and the implementation of new production technologies.

As an Automation Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining automated manufacturing systems while supporting continuous improvement initiatives across the business.

• Designing and improving automated manufacturing processes and workflows
• Identifying and reducing waste through Lean Manufacturing techniques
• Supporting continuous improvement projects and increasing operational efficiency
• Designing equipment and tooling, and supporting capital investment projects
• Troubleshooting automated machinery and equipment to improve reliability and performance
• Programming PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and automation systems
• Supporting the installation and commissioning of automated production equipment
• Conducting safety inspections and ensuring compliance with engineering standards
• Analysing production and process data to identify improvement opportunities
• Creating and maintaining technical documentation and operating procedures
• Supporting Value Stream Mapping and Time & Motion studies
• Assisting with 5S initiatives across manufacturing areas
• Training and supporting production teams, maintenance engineers, and junior engineers on new systems and equipment

• Minimum 5 years' experience within a manufacturing environment
• Level 3 qualification in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering
• Experience working with Andon systems and production data capture
• Strong PLC and HMI programming experience (Mitsubishi or Siemens)
• Robotics programming experience (ABB or Fanuc)
• Experience installing and commissioning servo drives
• Experience working with safety control systems and Safety CPUs
• Experience installing and fault‑finding electrical control systems
• Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies

• AutoCAD Inventor and/or AutoCAD Electrical experience
• Value Stream Mapping (VSM) experience
• Time & Motion Study experience

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment in line with the Equality Act 2010. All qualified applicants will be considered regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. New Appointments Group acts as an Employment Agency for permanent roles and as an Employment Business for temporary roles.