Automation Engineer

Arla Foods
Stoke Mandeville, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom
3 weeks ago
Posted
26 Mar 2026 (3 weeks ago)

Are you ready to play a key role in keeping one of Europe’s most advanced dairies running at peak performance?

Join us at our flagship Aylesbury site, where you'll help optimise cutting‑edge automation systems and support continuous improvement across a truly world‑class operation.

“Aylesbury is an incredible place to grow as an automation specialist — our systems are complex, highly integrated and constantly evolving. You’ll be joining a supportive, solutions‑focused engineering team who take real pride in keeping the dairy running safely and efficiently.”

How you will make an impact

As an Automation Engineer, you will provide essential engineering support across automation and production IT systems, enabling us to deliver safe, reliable and efficient operations. Working on a Panama shift pattern (12‑hour days and nights), you’ll deliver proactive maintenance, structured problem‑solving and lead optimisation projects that enhance site performance.

Your key responsibilities will include

* Delivering structured troubleshooting across operations equipment and automation systems, including HMI/SCADA software and Siemens PLC platforms.

* Maintaining proactive monitoring and performance of site systems, including servers, networks and drivers.

* Providing day‑to‑day and preventive maintenance across all production IT and automated systems.

* Leading and participating in local continuous improvement initiatives, ensuring measurable and sustainable outcomes.

* Driving optimisation projects and taking ownership of engineering improvements that enhance plant performance.

What will make you successful

You bring a blend of technical capability, practical problem‑solving skills and a collaborative mindset. You’re comfortable working in a fast‑moving, automated production environment and confident communicating with stakeholders at all levels.

To be successful in this role, you will likely have experience in automated process environments such as food, brewing, pharmaceutical or chemical manufacturing, supported by a relevant engineering qualification at NVQ Level 3, HNC/HND or degree level. You will also have hands‑on exposure to production IT systems and ideally knowledge of Siemens PLC/S7, OAS, Aveva WW, OEE or RMS. Experience working within multicultural global organisations is highly valuable.

You will thrive if you are a strong team player, an effective communicator and someone who is proactive, curious and motivated by continuous improvement.

What do we offer?

At Aylesbury Dairy, you’ll join a positive, multidisciplinary engineering community committed to development, collaboration and continuous improvement. You will be part of a global organisation offering strong internal growth pathways, supported learning opportunities and access to industry‑leading technology.

The package includes a competitive salary, 24 days’ holiday, annual pay review, employer pension contributions matched up to 6% (12% total), life assurance, flexible benefits including the option to purchase additional holiday, retail discounts and extensive training opportunities.

Would you like to join us?

If you want to drive optimisation and play a key part in one of the UK’s most advanced dairies, we’d love to hear from you. Please apply as soon as possible, as we will review applications on an ongoing basis and may close the recruitment once the right candidate is found

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