Project Engineer – Automation Systems – Bedfordshire
Location: Bedfordshire
Overview
This is an excellent opportunity for a mechanically minded engineer to join a leading provider of automated manufacturing systems for Tier 1 automotive and general engineering customers. The Project Engineer will support the delivery of automated manufacturing systems, gaining experience across mechanical assemblies, robotics, tooling, and process automation. The role provides a structured development pathway into Project Management and Programme Management for the right individual.
Key Responsibilities
Project Engineering Support & Project Coordination
* Assist senior engineers and project managers throughout the full lifecycle of automation and assembly tooling projects.
* Work with mechanical drawings, 3D CAD models, facility & system layouts, pneumatics, and specifications.
* Support the preparation of project documentation, schedules, and progress reports.
* Coordinate with internal teams (design, fabrication, controls, robot engineering, installation) to ensure smooth project execution.
* Provide hands-on support during assembly, testing, and installation activities.
Technical Learning & Development
* Gain experience in mechanical assemblies, tooling, pneumatics, and automated machinery, including process & sequence definition and development of assembly process solutions.
* Assist business development with technical bid proposals, including system layouts, timing plans, cycle time calculations, and process definition.
* Hands-on involvement with fixture and tooling build, facility assembly, system testing, and final commissioning.
* Support troubleshooting and problem-solving during build and commissioning phases, working alongside other engineering disciplines.
* Participate in FAT, SAT, and customer acceptance activities during buy-off and handover.
* Learn to apply engineering standards, safety requirements, and customer specifications.
Customer & Supplier Interaction
* Assist with technical queries from customers and suppliers.
* Work with internal and external engineering resources, including Design, Manufacturing, Controls, and Robot Engineering.
* Support customer engineering change enquiries and develop engineering cost estimates.
* Develop project finance awareness, working within budgets and forecasts.
* Support engineering site activities, including site visits, installations, and commissioning.
* Help source mechanical components and equipment as part of procurement processes.
Qualifications
* Level 5 qualification or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Automation, Manufacturing, or a related discipline.
* Time-served mechanical apprenticeships will be considered.
* Additional training in automation or project engineering is beneficial but not required.
Career Development Pathway
The role is structured to support long-term career growth. As experience builds, the successful candidate will progress through:
* Project Engineer – taking ownership of work packages and technical delivery.
* Project Manager – leading full projects, managing budgets, timelines, and customer relationships.
* Programme Manager – overseeing multiple large-scale automation programmes for Tier 1 and OEM customers.
* Training, mentoring, and exposure to real project environments will be provided at every stage.
1. Who We’re Looking For
We are seeking one of two types of candidates:
1. Experienced Robotics/Automation Engineer
* Strong background in industrial robotics (KUKA, ABB, Fanuc, etc.)
* Experience in robot programming, commissioning, or integration
* Interested in a career move into project engineering with long-term growth to Project Manager
* Familiarity with automation systems, PLCs, and process integration
2. Early-Career Automation/Mechatronics Engineer
* Recent graduate in Mechatronics, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering
* 1–2 years’ experience in automation, robotics, conveyor systems, or body-in-white/assembly line production
* Strong foundation in automation and problem-solving
* Motivated to grow into a project-focused career with hands-on and management exposure