Automation Engineer

Copello

Edinburgh, Alba / Scotland, United Kingdom

3 weeks ago

£40,000 – £60,000 pa

Salary

£40,000 – £60,000 pa

Posted: 20 Apr 2026 (3 weeks ago)

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Senior Automation Engineer

Location: Outskirts of Edinburgh (flexible work pattern and compressed week)

Contract: 12 Month FTC

Hours: 37 hours per week

Overview

We are working with a leading advanced manufacturing and defence organisation seeking a Senior Automation Engineer to deliver innovative automation solutions across complex production environments.

This role offers the opportunity to lead end-to-end automation projects, driving improvements in efficiency, quality, and safety within highly regulated industries.

The Role

You will be responsible for the design, development, and implementation of automated manufacturing systems, supporting projects from concept through to commissioning.

Key Responsibilities

Design and develop automated systems including PLCs, robotics, and SCADA

Lead full lifecycle automation projects to improve cycle time, cost, and safety

Program and optimise PLCs (Siemens, Allen Bradley), robots (Fanuc, ABB, Kuka), and HMI/SCADA systems

Commission robotic cells and assembly systems, ensuring compliance with industry standards (e.g. ISO 9001 / AS9100)

Integrate shop-floor systems with MES and ERP platforms

Develop automated workflows and manufacturing recipes (ISA-88 / ISA-95)

Support data-driven manufacturing through KPI dashboards and reporting

Conduct root cause analysis and drive continuous improvement

Skills & Experience

Degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Controls or similar)

Proven experience in industrial automation within manufacturing environments

Strong knowledge of PLC programming (Siemens S7 / TIA Portal preferred) and robotics

Experience integrating MES (e.g. Syncade, Opcenter) and ERP systems

Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (e.g. OPC UA, Ethernet/IP)

Experience working in regulated industries such as Life Sciences, Aerospace & Defence, or FMCG

Desirable

Programming/scripting skills (Python, Java, C++, PowerShell or Bash)

Experience with SQL, XML, or database systems

Exposure to Infrastructure as Code or modern automation tooling

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