Automation Engineer

Job Title: Manufacturing Engineer (Automation / Process Control)Location: Manchester

Salary: £60,000 + benefits

The Opportunity

We're supporting the build of a brand-new, highly regulated manufacturing and R&D facility in Manchester.

This is a genuinely unique opportunity to join a site from the ground up, working in a technical, project-led environment focused on advanced process control, automation and small-batch production.

This role is far more than a "keep the line running" position, it's heavily involved in automation, system setup, validation and continuous improvement within a GMP-regulated setting.

The Role

You'll play a key role in delivering and supporting automated manufacturing systems across the site, working closely with engineering, projects and operations teams.

Key responsibilities include:

Supporting the design, setup and commissioning of automated process systems

Working across PLC, SCADA, DCS and HMI platforms

Leading and supporting capital projects from concept through to validation

Developing technical documentation including SOPs, specifications and validation protocols

Supporting GMP compliance, change control and validation activities (IQ/OQ/PQ)

Troubleshooting and resolving process control and automation issues

Supporting new product and technology introduction from an engineering perspective

Driving improvements in automation performance and system reliability

Technical Environment

You'll be working within a regulated, batch-process manufacturing environment, with exposure to:

PLC / SCADA / DCS systems (Rockwell / DeltaV environments)

Batch control systems and automation strategies

GMP / GAMP / 21 CFR Part 11 compliance

Process equipment such as:

filtration systems

fluid handling systems

bioprocess-style equipment

Clean utilities and building systems (HVAC, purified water, etc.)

What We're Looking For

Strong background in automation, controls or process engineering

Experience working in a GMP or regulated manufacturing environment (pharma, biotech, chemical, etc.)

Hands-on experience with PLC / SCADA / DCS systems

Understanding of validation processes (IQ/OQ/PQ) and compliance frameworks

Experience supporting projects, commissioning or system implementation

Ability to troubleshoot and improve complex process control systems

Desirable Experience

Exposure to platforms such as DeltaV, FactoryTalk or ControlLogix

Experience with batch processing and process automation

Knowledge of GAMP, 21 CFR Part 11, S88 / S95

Experience with:

bioprocessing systems

CIP / COP / autoclaves

cleanroom or controlled environments

Why This Role?

Be part of a greenfield site setup

Work in a highly technical, automation-led environment

Move away from repetitive manufacturing into project-based engineering

Gain exposure to advanced regulated manufacturing systems

Long-term progression within a growing, specialist operation

Additional Info

Permanent position

Some flexibility required to support site operations when needed

Strong emphasis on safety, compliance and engineering standards

Next Steps

If this looks aligned with your background, I'd be happy to talk you through the role in more detail