Automation Engineer
Pontefract & Hellaby based (Field-based role with a UK-wide remit)
Full-time, site-based across two of our modern manufacturing sites
Are you a passionate automation specialist with a strong engineering background and a flair for solving problems? We’re looking for an Automation Engineer to join our Central Engineering Team and help drive the automation agenda across our Pontefract and Hellaby sites.
As our Automation Engineer, you’ll be at the heart of keeping our systems running smoothly, safely, and smartly. You’ll play a key role in ensuring our automation and control systems are fully available, backed up, and continuously improving – while making sure the right safeguards, documentation, and change processes are in place.
This is a hands-on, field-based role where you’ll:
Lead and support automation projects from concept through to full handover, including installation and commissioning
Be a key stakeholder in capital projects, collaborating cross-functionally to deliver technical solutions that support our broader business goals
Work with operational technology infrastructure and energy management systems
Support our Manufacturing Execution System (MES) for effective data collection and production insight
Ensure our systems meet all compliance, legislative, and food safety requirements
You’ll work as part of a dynamic, forward-thinking team – with plenty of opportunities to grow, develop, and make a real impact.
5% bonus scheme – with an excellent track record of over-achievement
~ Comprehensive Healthcare Support – Access to a Medicash Health Cash Plan or Private Healthcare, including a Digital GP service, Best Doctors (Second Medical Opinion Service), and specialist Cancer Care for peace of mind when you need it most.
~ KP Pension Plan - contribution matching up to 7% of your salary
~25 days holiday + holiday buy scheme
~ KP4ME - online benefits, discounts, prizes, competitions and information platform with access to mental, physical and financial wellbeing information and tools
Here in the UK, we're about 2,400 strong, spread across seven factories and our Slough HQ. Diversity isn't just a buzzword for us. We’d love to hear from you if you bring a solid automation background and hands-on experience in a manufacturing setting. HNC or above in an engineering discipline, or time-served apprenticeship with strong practical experience
A background in automation engineering – ideally within food manufacturing or FMCG
A solid foundation in electrical engineering and control systems
Other PLC systems such as GX Works, CX Programmer, Rockwell Automation
MES platforms and data collection systems
Operational technology and energy management systems
Project & CI Experience:
Demonstrated experience in project engineering and management
Familiarity with quality management systems and legislative/food safety compliance