Process Automation Engineer – 12‑Month Fixed‑Term

About the role

We are seeking a Process Automation Engineer to join a fast‑growing manufacturing business in Croydon. The role will focus on delivering automation and process‑improvement projects that boost safety, quality, productivity and overall operational efficiency across a modern production environment.

Key responsibilities

• Lead automation projects from concept through commissioning and handover.
• Design and implement automation solutions to improve manufacturing performance.
• Identify, evaluate and implement process‑improvement opportunities using digital technologies and engineering solutions.
• Automate manual or repetitive processes to increase efficiency.
• Deliver projects safely, on time and within budget.
• Work with suppliers, OEMs and system integrators to specify, procure and implement solutions.
• Support the development of future automation and digital manufacturing initiatives.
• Collaborate with Production, Engineering, Maintenance, Quality, Supply Chain and IT teams.
• Conduct risk assessments and ensure compliance with health, safety and machine safety requirements.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, standards and operating procedures.

Required profile

• Degree qualified or equivalent experience in Automation, Manufacturing, Electrical, Controls, Process or Production Engineering.
• Proven experience delivering automation, manufacturing improvement or process‑optimisation projects in an industrial environment.
• Strong project‑management and stakeholder‑management abilities.
• Experience managing suppliers, contractors and external partners.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities.

Required skills

• PLC programming and configuration.
• HMI development.
• SCADA systems.
• Industrial control systems.
• Robotics integration.
• Sensor and monitoring technology implementation.
• Data acquisition and reporting for operational visibility.

What we offer

• Competitive salary of £55,000‑£65,000 per year.
• 12‑month fixed‑term contract with potential for extension.
• Opportunity to work on high‑impact automation projects in a market‑leading manufacturer.
• Collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.
• Comprehensive benefits package.