Automation Engineer

Automation Engineer -

Responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and continuously improving complex automated manufacturing systems in a high-volume production environment. The role focuses on ensuring equipment reliability, supporting production performance, and delivering automation improvements aligned with lean manufacturing principles and safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain and support complex in-house automated production systems to ensure high process reliability.
• Troubleshoot and resolve automation and control system issues in a timely and effective manner.
• Monitor and improve overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) and line performance; identify bottlenecks and lead root cause analysis activities.
• Modify and optimise control systems to meet evolving production and product requirements.
• Deliver automation projects and continuous improvement initiatives from concept to implementation.
• Identify and implement opportunities where automation can enhance efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Stay current with emerging technologies, equipment upgrades, and system changes.
• Work closely with manufacturing, maintenance, engineering, and external suppliers to support operational goals.
• Actively promote and apply lean manufacturing and safety-first principles in daily operations.

Key Competencies

• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and troubleshooting capability.
• Clear, structured thinker with high attention to detail and planning.
• Effective communicator able to engage with all levels of the organisation.
• Results-driven, pragmatic, and adaptable in fast-paced environments.
• Demonstrates professionalism, ethical integrity, and strong teamwork.
• Capable of preparing clear reports and delivering technical presentations.
• Committed to continuous improvement and standardisation of processes.

Qualifications & Experience

• Honours degree (Level 8) in Automation, Electrical, Electronics, Mechatronics, Software Engineering, or related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years' experience in a fast-paced, high-volume manufacturing environment (FMCG or similar).
• Strong hands-on experience with PLC-based control systems, vision systems, and manufacturing execution systems (MES).
• Knowledge of industrial networks and machine control principles.
• Experience with Siemens S7, WinCC, and Wonderware is advantageous.
• Proficient in MS Office and familiar with statistical process control tools.
• Practical experience applying lean manufacturing tools and process standardisation.