Junior Project Engineer

Bedford
1 month ago
Applications closed

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Junior Project Engineer – Automation Systems (Automotive & General Industry)

Location: UK (with occasional travel)
Sector: Automation Systems | Automotive Tier 1 | Manufacturing
Career Level: Junior / Graduate / Early Career Engineer

Overview

An exciting opportunity is available for a mechanically minded Junior Project Engineer to begin a career in industrial automation and automotive engineering. This role supports the delivery of automated manufacturing and assembly systems for Tier 1 automotive and general industry customers.

Designed as a structured development role, this position offers a clear progression pathway into Project Engineering, Project Management, and ultimately Programme Management for the right individual.

Key Responsibilities

Project Engineering Support & Coordination

Support senior engineers and project managers across the full lifecycle of automation and assembly projects

Work with mechanical drawings, 3D CAD models, system layouts, pneumatics, and technical specifications

Assist with project documentation, schedules, reporting, and coordination activities

Liaise with internal teams including design, fabrication, controls, robotics, and installation

Provide hands-on support during system build, testing, installation, and commissioning

Technical Learning & Development

Gain exposure to mechanical assemblies, tooling, pneumatics, and automated machinery

Assist with process definition, sequencing, and development of assembly solutions

Support technical bid proposals including layouts, timing plans, cycle time calculations, and process concepts

Participate in fixture and tooling builds, system testing, FAT, SAT, and customer buy-off activities

Support troubleshooting during build and commissioning alongside multi-disciplinary teams

Learn to apply engineering standards, safety requirements, and customer specifications

Customer & Supplier Interaction

Support technical queries from customers and suppliers

Work with internal and external engineering partners (design, manufacturing, controls, robotics)

Assist with engineering change requests and cost estimating

Develop awareness of project budgets, forecasting, and financial control

Support site-based activities including visits, installations, and commissioning

Assist with sourcing mechanical components and equipment

Quality, Safety & Compliance

Follow established quality procedures and engineering standards

Support risk assessments, method statements, and safe working practices

Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives as experience grows

Skills & Experience

Essential



Strong mechanical aptitude with an interest in automation or manufacturing systems

*

Ability to read and interpret basic mechanical drawings and technical documentation

*

Practical, hands-on mindset with good problem-solving skills

*

Strong communication skills and ability to work in multi-disciplinary teams

*

High motivation to learn and develop in a project-focused engineering role

Desirable

*

Experience in automotive, Tier 1, or engineering environments (placements or apprenticeships welcome)

*

Exposure to robotics, fixtures, or automated equipment

*

Basic understanding of controls or PLC systems (advantageous but not essential)

Qualifications

* Level 5 qualification or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Automation, Manufacturing, or related discipline

* Time-served mechanical apprenticeship considered

* Additional automation or project engineering training beneficial but not required

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