Join Our Team as an 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 an enthusiastic automation specialist with a knack for problem-solving? Ready to elevate your career in a supportive and high-performing team? We’re on the lookout for an Automation Engineer to join our Central Engineering Team and lead the automation agenda across our Pontefract and Hellaby sites.
Your Role: What You’ll Be Doing
As our Automation Engineer, you’ll be pivotal in ensuring our systems run smoothly, safely, and efficiently. Your mission will be to keep our automation and control systems fully operational, continuously improving, and compliant with all necessary safeguards and documentation.
This hands-on, field-based role will have you:
* Leading and supporting automation projects from concept to full handover, including installation and commissioning.
* Contributing to Continuous Improvement (CI) initiatives, enhancing site efficiency and system optimization.
* Collaborating cross-functionally as a key stakeholder in capital projects to deliver technical solutions that align with our business goals.
* Working with operational technology infrastructure and energy management systems.
* Supporting our Manufacturing Execution System (MES) for effective data collection and production insights.
* Ensuring compliance with all legislative and food safety requirements.
You’ll be part of a dynamic, forward-thinking team, with ample opportunities to grow, develop, and make a real impact!
What’s in It for You?
We believe in nurturing our team and ensuring you thrive. Here’s a glimpse of what we offer:
* 5% bonus scheme – with a fantastic 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.
* KP Pension Plan – contribution matching up to 7% of your salary.
* 25 days holiday + holiday buy scheme.
* KP4ME – an online platform offering benefits, discounts, prizes, competitions, and resources for mental, physical, and financial wellbeing.
Who Are We?
We’re KP Snacks, proud to be part of the Intersnack family. Imagine over 15,000 of us across more than 30 countries, all working together to create the snacks you love. From Hula Hoops to McCoy’s, we’re the team behind your favorite munchies.
In the UK, we’re about 2,400 strong, spread across seven factories and our Slough HQ. But don’t let our size fool you – we’re a close-knit community that values open communication, celebrates diversity, and pushes boundaries together.
Diversity isn’t just a buzzword for us. We’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone belongs. Even if you don’t tick every box, we want to hear from you! Your unique perspective could be just what we need. If there’s anything we can do to make this process easier for you, just let us know.
Qualifications & Background
We’d love to hear from you if you bring a solid automation background and hands-on experience in a manufacturing setting. You’ll need:
* HNC or above in an engineering discipline, or a 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.
Technical Experience
* Siemens TIA Portal (essential).
* Other PLC systems such as GX Works, CX Programmer, Rockwell Automation.
* Experience with MES platforms and data collection systems.
* Familiarity with operational technology and energy management systems.
Project & CI Experience
* Demonstrated experience in project engineering and management.
* Involvement in maintenance and continuous improvement programs.
* Familiarity with quality management systems and legislative/food safety compliance.
* Comfortable with budgeting, CapEx processes, and procurement.
We can’t wait to see how you can contribute to our team!