Manufacturing Engineer (PLC Programming / Automation)

We’re recruiting on behalf of a highly successful group of UK manufacturing companies – a first-tier supplier into major automotive OEMs. The business is growing, investing heavily in automation, and now requires a Manufacturing Engineer with strong PLC programming capability to support its next phase of technology-led production.

This is a pivotal role in a business moving fast on digital manufacturing, robotics, and intelligent machining. If you’re driven by process improvement, automation, and seeing your programming translate to real-world production performance, this one is for you.

Why Join?

• A growing, financially secure UK manufacturing group
  
  
• Major investment in automation and future-proof production technology
  
  
• Hybrid working arrangement + flexible hours
  
  
• Real opportunity to influence modernisation and automation strategy
  
  
• Occasional cross-site collaboration (Sutton Coldfield + Coventry)
  
  The Opportunity
  
  As Manufacturing Engineer, you will sit at the heart of new product introduction and automated cutting processes. You’ll be responsible for:
  
  
• Programming PLCs (ladder logic) for waterjet cutting machinery
  
  
• Supporting the transition of new products into full production
  
  
• Optimising cycle times, machine utilisation, and throughput
  
  
• Collaborating with production, design, quality, and senior engineering
  
  
• Troubleshooting and continuously improving automated systems
  
  
• Driving manufacturing efficiency as automation investment expands
  
  This is not a purely desk-based role — you’ll be hands-on with equipment, working with the wider engineering team to ensure cutting programs, tooling, and product flow are fully aligned.
  
  What We’re Looking For
  
  You don’t need to come from automotive, but you do need strong PLC experience.
  
  
• Proven PLC programming skills
  
  
• A background in manufacturing engineering (any sector considered)
  
  
• Experience with automation, CNC, robotics, controls, or similar
  
  
• Confident troubleshooting and solving complex production challenges
  
  
• Able to communicate effectively with shop-floor teams and leadership
  
  Waterjet cutting experience isn’t required — full training will be given.
  
  How to Apply
  
  If you’re a manufacturing engineer who thrives on controls, PLC programming, automation and making production smarter, we’d love to speak with you.
  
  Apply now or get in touch for a confidential conversation.
  
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