Automation Engineer
Job RequirementsWhy work for us? Want to join a truly global company with over 37 manufacturing facilities around the world? Want to be part of a forward thinking, progressive organisation that is growing at an extraordinary pace? Why not become part of an organisation that truly cares about its commitment to its customers and its fellow colleagues.
Alkegen is a global leader in high-performance specialty fibers and inorganic materials used in high-temperature industrial, automotive and fire protection applications. We have nearly 80 years' experience in providing innovative solutions to our customers' application problems across several different business sectors. Our products are known universally for their quality and proven performance with names like Fiberfrax ceramic fiber products, revolutionary low bio-persistent Insulfrax and Isofrax.
Our purpose, mission and values are based on our commitment to produce high quality products that help our customers save energy, reduce pollution and improve fire safetyJob Requirements: SafetyUnderstanding of Machinery Safety Standards and Risk Assessment processesKnowledge of Permit to Work, Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), Electrical Safety Rules and Safe Isolation proceduresTechnical QualificationsHNC/HND or Degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, Control Systems Engineering, or related discipline (essential)Time-served Electrical/Controls Engineer apprenticeship (desirable)Relevant electrical qualifications (e.g., NVQ Level 3 Electrical Engineering, 18th Edition Wiring Regulations) desirableControl Systems ExperienceProven experience programming, commissioning, troubleshooting and maintaining PLC-controlled equipment (essential)Experience with Allen Bradley, Siemens, Mitsubishi, Omron or equivalent PLC platforms (essential)Experience developing and modifying HMI and SCADA systems (essential)Experience with industrial communications networks including Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Profibus, Modbus or similar (essential)Experience with servo drives, VSDs, motion control and instrumentation systems (desirable)Project ManagementProven experience delivering automation and controls projects from concept through commissioning (essential)Experience managing contractors, project budgets, schedules and technical specifications (desirable)Continuous ImprovementLean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement experience (essential)Six Sigma Yellow Belt or equivalent (desirable)Manufacturing KnowledgeExperience working within a manufacturing environment (essential)Knowledge of root cause analysis methodologies and problem-solving tools (essential)Experience working within ISO9001 and/or IATF16949 environments (desirable)ResponsibilitiesSafetyEnsure all automation, controls and electrical systems comply with site safety standards and legal requirementsLead machinery safety assessments, electrical safety improvements and Management of Change (MOC) activitiesSupport incident investigations and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrencePromote safe working practices, permit-to-work compliance, LOTO and contractor safety managementQualityDevelop and maintain control systems that support consistent product quality and process stabilityInvestigate process and equipment issues using root cause analysis and implement permanent solutionsSupport quality improvement initiatives through automation and data-driven process controlEnsure all automation changes are documented, tested and validated in line with quality requirementsCostIdentify and implement automation solutions that reduce waste, energy consumption and operating costsSupport preventive maintenance strategies to minimise unplanned downtime and repair costsManage automation project budgets and ensure effective use of engineering resourcesDrive efficiency improvements through equipment optimisation and process standardisationDeliveryImprove equipment reliability, OEE and manufacturing throughput through automation and controls improvementsLead automation and capital projects from design through commissioning and handoverProvide technical support to minimise downtime and restore production quickly during equipment failuresWork with operations teams to identify and remove process bottlenecksImprovementDrive continuous improvement initiatives using automation, data analysis and engineering best practicesIdentify opportunities for new technologies and digital solutions to improve manufacturing performanceDevelop and maintain PLC, HMI and SCADA systems to support operational excellenceContribute to site improvement roadmaps and long-term engineering strategiesPeopleProvide technical leadership and expertise across automation, controls and electrical systemsCoach and support maintenance and operations teams in fault finding and equipment operationWork collaboratively with cross-functional teams, contractors and equipment supplierSupport skills development and knowledge sharing to improve overall engineering capabilitySummaryLocation: Holywell, United KingdomType: Full time