Job Description:

Automation Engineer
Beccles, Suffolk
£44,060.32+ per annum - plus excellent company benefits
Full Time | Permanent
Monday to Friday | 8:00am - 4:30pm (30-minute lunch break)

Hales Group are recruiting for an experienced Automation Engineer to join a leading manufacturing business in Beccles.

This is an excellent opportunity to play a key role in maintaining and developing automated manufacturing systems within a highly successful and innovative production environment focused on sustainable packaging solutions.

Why apply?

• Starting salary of £44,060.32 per annum
• Monday to Friday working pattern with no rotating shifts
• Join a well-established and financially secure manufacturing business
• Work with modern automation and control technologies
• Opportunity to lead and support continuous improvement projects
• Long-term career stability within a specialist engineering team
• Excellent company benefits package
• Free on-site parking

About the role
Reporting to the Automation Lead, you'll be responsible for supporting all aspects of site automation, including planned maintenance, fault finding, system upgrades and continuous improvement initiatives. You'll work closely with engineering, production and project teams to ensure manufacturing equipment operates safely, efficiently and reliably.

Key responsibilities

• Modernise PLC platforms and integrated control systems
• Diagnose faults, problem solve and develop PLC code improvements
• Support the integration of new technologies within existing manufacturing systems
• Work on process control, data acquisition, vision and validation systems
• Read, update and maintain schematics and technical documentation
• Support the design, delivery and commissioning of manufacturing projects
• Drive automation and electrical obsolescence improvements
• Identify opportunities to improve performance through automation and technology
• Work with project teams and OEMs to support design enhancements
• Develop and support preventative and autonomous maintenance programmes
• Provide reactive support during breakdown situations
• Ensure compliance with machine safety, health & safety and environmental standards
• Maintain high housekeeping standards in line with BRC and 6S requirements

What we're looking for

• Minimum Level 3 Engineering qualification with an electrical bias or separate electrical qualification
• Experience working within a manufacturing or production environment
• Strong PLC fault finding and programming capabilities
• Experience working with inverters, servo drives and HMI systems
• Knowledge of machine safety regulations and engineering best practice
• Ability to read and update electrical schematics and technical drawings
• Computer literate with Microsoft Office applications
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• Reliable, adaptable and proactive approach to work
• Team player with a continuous improvement mindset

The opportunity
This role would suit an experienced Automation Engineer, Controls Engineer, Electrical & Automation Engineer or PLC Engineer looking to join a business that continues to invest in technology, sustainability and operational excellence. You'll have the opportunity to make a real impact, supporting critical production assets while helping shape future automation projects across the site.

Why work through Hales Group?
All of our Consultants are highly experienced and committed to supporting candidates throughout their job search. We treat candidates as valued customers and aim to match you with the right opportunity for your skills and career goals.

Hales Group Ltd processes applicant data in line with its Equal Opportunities policy and may contact you regarding future opportunities. If you prefer not to be contacted, please inform your local branch.