Lead Automation Engineer

Lead Automation Engineer - Team Leader

Job Title: Lead Automation Engineer - Team Leader
Salary: £62,000 - £66,000
Location: Slough

Job Purpose:

The Lead Automation Engineer - Team Leader is responsible for overseeing the reliability, performance, and continuous improvement of automated production equipment within the factory. This role combines hands-on technical expertise in automation and controls with leadership responsibilities, ensuring both effective maintenance and strategic enhancements of electrical control systems, PLCs, HMIs, and automation software.

Key Responsibilities

Automation and Controls:

• Own the performance and continuous improvement of PLC, HMI, and automated control systems.
• Diagnose and resolve complex faults in PLC logic, electrical controls, and machine interfaces.
• Maintain and optimize machine control systems to enhance uptime and efficiency.
• Lead automation upgrades and new equipment integrations, ensuring seamless commissioning and performance alignment.

Maintenance and Engineering:

• Lead the response to equipment breakdowns, prioritizing actions to minimize downtime while maintaining production integrity.
• Conduct and oversee planned preventative maintenance according to established schedules.
• Maintain detailed records and engineering documentation to uphold company standards.

Technical Leadership and Team Support:

• Provide day-to-day technical guidance and mentorship to engineering staff, enhancing team capabilities in automation and controls.
• Act as a primary technical contact during critical breakdown situations, offering expert advice and solutions.
• Support the Engineering Manager in developing and enforcing engineering standards and best practices.

Continuous Improvement and Projects:

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing automation reliability and operational efficiency.
• Lead root cause analysis for major or repetitive equipment failures, implementing strategic corrective actions.
• Manage and contribute to machinery upgrades and automation projects, ensuring objectives are met on time and within budget.

Health and Safety:

• Uphold stringent safety standards in line with company policies and legislation, including LOTO procedures.
• Conduct risk assessments and ensure all engineering activities are compliant with safety protocols.

Food Safety and Hygiene:

• Ensure all engineering activities align with GMP and food safety regulations, maintaining impeccable hygiene standards during maintenance.

Skills, Knowledge, and Experience

• Qualifications: Recognized engineering degree in Electrical, Electronic, Automation, or Multi-Skilled Engineering.
• Experience: Extensive experience in a food manufacturing environment, with a strong background in automation and controls.
• Skills: Expertise in PLCs, HMIs, electrical fault finding, and automated production lines. Proficient in leading complex fault diagnosis and implementing effective solutions.
• Leadership: Proven ability to lead and mentor engineering teams, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence.

Personal Attributes

• Methodical and calm, especially during high-pressure situations.
• Proactive, hands-on approach to problem-solving.
• Strong sense of ownership and accountability, with a commitment to upholding high standards of safety and quality.
• Flexible and reliable, capable of working effectively within a dynamic team environment.