Theo James Recruitment

Job Title: Automation and Controls Engineer Location: Newcastle Salary: £35,000 - £45,000 Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package Career progression and training opportunities Exposure to cutting-edge automation and Industry 4.0 projects Supportive engineering team and collaborative working environment As an Automation and Controls Engineer, you will be responsible for managing electrical control and instrumentation projects from concept to completion. This includes supporting cross-functional teams, developing innovative automation solutions, and ensuring safe, efficient project delivery in line with industry standards. Key responsibilities include: Lead electrical, control, and instrumentation projects from cradle to grave, including design, documentation, testing, and commissioning. Support the integration of advanced sensor systems, machine learning, and predictive analytics for real-time process control. Drive adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies such as IoT, AI/ML, and digital twins. Manage technical drawings and documentation (schematics, wiring diagrams, SLDs, IO lists, cable schedules). Design, specify, install, and commission control panels and motor control systems (MCCs, DOL, VFD, soft start). Collaborate with maintenance teams by providing training on machine control systems and supporting complex breakdowns. Ensure compliance with BS:th Edition, BS EN 60204, PUWER 98, ATEX, and functional safety standards. Work with automation simulation software (e.g., ABB, Yaskawa), PLCs, and LabVIEW troubleshooting. This role is ideally suited to a Junior to Mid-Level Automation and Controls Engineer looking to expand their technical expertise while contributing to strategic automation roadmaps. Skills & Experience: To succeed as an Automation and Controls Engineer, you will bring: A degree in Electrical & Electronic Engineering, Automation & Controls, Mechatronics, or equivalent experience. Proven project management experience in electrical, control, and instrumentation projects. Strong knowledge of control systems (Siemens preferred), automation protocols, and solid understanding of lean/Six Sigma methodologies. Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills. Familiarity with Industry 4.0 technologies, predictive analytics, and digital twin development. Desirable: experience with LabVIEW, programming (C++, C#, Python, R), or gamification tools (UE5 Engine). Why Should You Apply? Opportunity to join a pioneering business at the forefront of digital manufacturing and automation. Work on high-profile projects with exposure to emerging technologies. Career progression in a supportive, innovative environment. A chance to shape the future of automation while developing your skills as an Automation and Controls Engineer. The Company: Join a forward-thinking, innovative engineering business driving the future of advanced automation and control systems. The company operates at the forefront of Industry 4.0, delivering smart manufacturing solutions by integrating IoT, AI, and advanced robotics into real-world production environments. With a strong focus on professional development and career growth, this is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious Automation and Controls Engineer to shape their career while working on high-impact projects.

Job Title: Injection Moulding Setter Location: Stockton Hourly Rate: £16.78 £18.34 per hour (depending on shift & experience) Shifts: Monday Thursday: 6am 2pm, 2pm 10pm, 10pm 6am Friday: 6am 1pm, 1pm 8pm, 8pm 3am Benefits: Monthly time-keeping bonus (£40) Free on-site parking Team-building days Access to training courses (dependant on experience) Job Description: We are seeking an experienced Injection Moulding Setter to join the team. The successful candidate will be responsible for machine setup, process optimisation, and ensuring all products meet strict quality standards. You will manage your own shift with support from a small team, allowing you to focus on minimising downtime and achieving consistently high levels of performance. This role requires proven experience in injection moulding along with an IMT Level 3 (or equivalent) qualification. The ability to work independently, make sound technical decisions, and maintain production flow is essential. Shifts operate on a weekly rotation as follows: Monday Thursday: 6am 2pm, 2pm 10pm, 10pm 6am Friday: 6am 1pm, 1pm 8pm, 8pm 3am Skills & Experience: To be successful as an Injection Moulding Setter , you will need: IMT Level 3 Qualification (or equivalent) essential Minimum 2 years experience as an Injection Moulding Setter in manufacturing Strong technical expertise in setup, troubleshooting, and optimisation of moulding machines Experience with a wide range of materials A proactive, quality-focused mindset with strong problem-solving skills Ability to maintain accurate production and maintenance records Key Responsibilities: Set up and prepare injection moulding machines, moulds, and auxiliary equipment Monitor and adjust parameters to achieve efficiency and product quality Conduct visual inspections to ensure compliance with quality standards Diagnose and resolve machine or process-related issues quickly Maintain accurate production and maintenance documentation Adhere to safety protocols and maintain a safe working environment Support and mentor operators where required Why Should You Apply? Competitive hourly rates with additional holiday pay Stable employment with a well-respected manufacturer Monthly bonus for excellent time-keeping Opportunities for further training and career development Supportive team environment with strong structure in place Free parking and regular team-building events The Company: Theo James Recruitment is proud to be supporting a well-established plastics manufacturer supplying into multiple sectors. With modern facilities and a strong support structure in place, this is an excellent opportunity for an Injection Moulding Setter to join a thriving, forward-thinking business that values skill, dedication, and career progression.

Title: Manufacturing Engineering Manager Location: North Yorkshire Benefits: 24 days holiday, plus bank holidays (holiday entitlement increases with service) A holiday purchase/selling scheme Birthday off Pension scheme Profit share scheme Healthcare Cash Plan scheme Learning and Development Opportunities Life insurance scheme Enhanced sick pay scheme The Company: As Manufacturing Engineering Manager, you will be a key member of the Operations Management Team. Leading and developing a talented group of engineers and technicians, you will drive technical capability, process improvement, and innovation across both new product introduction and legacy product support.This is a fantastic opportunity for a proactive, forward-thinking leader with a passion for coaching and developing high-performing teams. We are a growing and ambitious organisation supplying cutting-edge technology to the defense sector. With an innovative product range and a strong focus on technical excellence, we are on an exciting growth journey. Backed by a visionary leadership team, we foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement. Our people are at the heart of what we do. We invest in training, development, and progression opportunities, empowering individuals to thrive in their careers while making a real impact in an industry that is constantly evolving. If you are a senior engineer who can demonstrate coaching/ mentoring, we also want to hear from you! Key Responsibilities Lead, coach, and develop a team of Manufacturing Engineers and Technicians to deliver engineering excellence. Drive best practice in manufacturing engineering across legacy and new product introduction projects. Champion Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and ensure smooth NPI handovers. Provide technical expertise to resolve manufacturing challenges and support business development bids. Ensure compliance with Health & Safety, industry standards, and customer requirements. Manage departmental budgets, identify new technologies, and implement improvement initiatives. Develop and maintain KPIs to proactively drive performance and results. Skills and Experience Required Able to demonstrate leadership and work with engineers and technicians. Experience in Electronics Manufacturing Experience within manufacturing, defense or aerospace is very desirable. Experience in New Product Introduction and APQP. Why Apply? Join a forward-thinking, expanding organisation at an exciting time of growth. Lead and shape a talented team, making a direct impact on performance and innovation. Work in a supportive, collaborative culture that values people and ideas. Opportunities for personal and professional development as the company grows. Be part of a business supplying technology into critical and innovative markets.

Job Title: Technical Sales Estimator Location: Blaydon on Tyne, Tyne & Wear Salary: Competitive depending on experience Benefits: Opportunity to join a secure and growing engineering firm Clear scope for career development and progression Supportive and collaborative working environment Free onsite parking Exposure to diverse, technically interesting projects across a wide range of industries Job Description: This is a fantastic opportunity for a motivated and detail-oriented individual to take on a pivotal role within the sales function. The successful candidate will be responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates and technical quotations, with a focus on CNC machining projects, as well as fabrication, welding, pressing, painting, and laser cutting. You ll work closely with clients, engineering teams, and internal stakeholders to develop pricing strategies and ensure technical specifications are met. Key Responsibilities: Liaise with clients to understand project requirements and technical needs Create accurate and competitive cost estimates for a range of engineered components Review technical drawings and ensure alignment with manufacturing capabilities Use ERP/CRM systems to manage supplier and customer data (experience with Emax ERP preferred) Collaborate with internal teams to ensure feasibility and pricing accuracy Keep current with industry pricing, materials, and manufacturing trends Provide technical advice to clients throughout the quotation process Build and maintain long-term relationships with customers and suppliers Skills & Experience: Degree in Engineering/Manufacturing or equivalent industry experience Proven background in technical estimating within precision engineering Strong knowledge of CNC machining or Fabrication is essential Experience with related processes including fabrication, welding, and finishing Confident in reading technical drawings and interpreting specifications ERP/MRP systems experience required Strong mathematical and analytical abilities Proficient in Microsoft Office and CAD/CAM tools Excellent communication, organisation, and problem-solving skills Why Should You Apply? Play a key role in a successful and growing company Work on diverse and technically interesting projects Competitive salary and long-term job security Join a supportive team that values experience and technical expertise Make a tangible impact within a business that truly values quality and people The Company: Our client is a well-established and ambitious precision engineering business entering an exciting new phase of growth. Recently acquired by new owners, the company is undergoing significant transformation and investment, including the appointment of a new Operations Director and an upcoming move to a brand-new 55,000 sq. ft. facility. They are a trusted partner to blue-chip clients across multiple sectors including Sub-sea, Oil & Gas, Rail, Marine, Defence, Aerospace, and more. With a strong focus on quality and innovation, the business recently achieved ISO 13485 certification, reinforcing its commitment to excellence particularly within the medical and precision sectors. Interested? If you're a driven and technically savvy estimator looking to join a forward-thinking engineering company, we d love to hear from you. Apply now or contact us for a confidential discussion.

Job Title: TIG Welder Location: Hartlepool Hourly Rate: Up to £18.00 per hour DOE Shifts: Monday Thursday 7:30am 4:30pm, Friday flexible: 6:00am 9:30am OR 7:30am 11:00am Benefits: Competitive hourly rate Stable day shifts Opportunity to shape a new in-house welding function Long-term career prospects Up to £18.00 per hour DOE Stable, family-friendly day shifts (with an early Friday finish!) Join a business investing in its people and future Be part of an exciting project bringing TIG welding in-house Job Description: As a TIG Welder, you will: Be responsible for working primarily with aluminium, mild steel, and a small amount of stainless steel. The TIG Welder role will involve taking on a variety of welding projects as the company establishes its in-house capabilities. This is a hands-on position where attention to detail, precision, and experience with TIG processes will be essential. While there may not be a huge volume of work at the very beginning, this is a long-term opportunity as the company builds out its internal welding department. The TIG Welder will report to the Production Manager and will have the chance to make a real impact in shaping how welding is delivered going forward. Skills & Experience: To succeed in this TIG Welder position, you will ideally have: Proven experience as a TIG Welder, working with aluminium, mild steel, and stainless steel Strong attention to detail and the ability to work independently Flexibility to adapt to a variety of project requirements A commitment to high standards of quality and safety Previous experience helping a company transition welding processes in-house would be a bonus, but not essential. Why Should You Apply? This is a fantastic chance for a TIG Welder who wants more than just a day-to-day role. You ll be involved in setting up and shaping how welding is delivered in-house, giving you a unique opportunity to influence processes and standards. The Company: We are working with a well-established engineering firm in Hartlepool that is bringing their TIG welding operations in-house for the very first time. This is an exciting opportunity to join a business at the start of a new chapter and help shape how welding is managed internally. With strong growth plans and a supportive team, they are looking for skilled welders to join them and become a key part of this transition.

Job Title: Tooling Technician Location: Sunderland, UK Hourly Rate: Competitive dependent on experience Shifts: 3-shift rotation Benefits: Health & wellbeing initiatives Career development pathways Supportive and encouraging management team Opportunities for progression and training Inclusive and innovative company culture Job Description As a Tooling Technician , you will play a vital role in maintaining and improving production efficiency. You will provide tooling maintenance cover across shifts, carry out both reactive and proactive maintenance, and contribute to breakdown reduction activities. Key responsibilities include: Carrying out planned maintenance to prevent machine breakdowns. Responding quickly to unplanned stoppages to minimise downtime. Identifying root causes of failures and implementing effective solutions. Recording breakdowns, repairs, and countermeasures accurately. Supporting continuous improvement and maintaining high safety standards. Ensuring compliance with company health, safety, and 5s standards. This Tooling Technician role is central to keeping production moving and ensuring tooling equipment runs at maximum efficiency. Skills & Experience To succeed as a Tooling Technician , you should have: A recognised apprenticeship in toolmaking/tool repair (HNC minimum). Hands-on experience operating milling machines, lathes, and grinding machines. Welding capability using TIG, MIG, or MMA. Competence with hand tools such as grinders and files. Strong understanding of press tool operations, assembly, and disassembly. Previous experience in tooling maintenance within a production environment. Automotive manufacturing experience (desirable). Why Should You Apply? This is an exciting opportunity to join a company that invests in its people and promotes from within. As a Tooling Technician , you will benefit from structured career development, excellent training opportunities, and a supportive culture that values innovation, accountability, and teamwork. If you re an experienced Tooling Technician looking to progress your career in a forward-thinking organisation, this role offers you the chance to make a real impact. Take the next step and apply today to join a business that recognises your skills, values your contribution, and supports your long-term growth. The Company Our client is a leading global supplier to the automotive industry, with a reputation for innovation and manufacturing excellence. They are dedicated to shaping the future of mobility, creating safer, greener, and better-connected solutions. Operating across multiple sites in the North East, they are fast-paced, passionate, and committed to supporting their 900-strong workforce with recognition, development, and wellbeing initiatives.

Product Manager Location: Newcastle / Sudbury (Travel to both sites is essential) Salary: Competitive DOE Benefits: Comprehensive package including pension, a strong commitment to health and safety and career development opportunities Job Description We are seeking a Product Manager to take ownership of our UK product portfolio. This is a pivotal role where you will shape product ideas from concept to launch, streamline existing ranges, and ensure compliance with regulatory changes. You ll work across sales, marketing, R&D, and engineering teams to bring innovative solutions to market and maximise commercial opportunities. The role will involve travel between the manufacturing and distribution sites across the UK as well as customer visits. As Product Manager, you will: Lead the development of new product ranges and drive innovation in the UK market. Rationalise product lines, reducing slow-moving stock and SKUs. Analyse competitors, market trends, and regulatory changes to identify risks and opportunities. Deliver technical training and CPDs to internal teams and customers. Represent the business at industry meetings, technical committees, and customer events. Collaborate with sales and marketing to communicate product updates across websites, brochures, and social media. Monitor performance through monthly KPIs, sales of new products, and portfolio optimisation. Skills & Experience The ideal Product Manager will bring: Previous experience in product management (construction, HVAC, or a related sector is advantageous). Strong commercial acumen with the ability to balance technical detail and customer needs. Knowledge of sales and customer service principles. Strategic thinking and the ability to spot market opportunities. Confidence in presenting to customers, industry groups, and internal teams. Proficiency in MS Office/Google Suite. Excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset. Why Should You Apply? This is a fantastic opportunity to join a respected manufacturer and distributor in a role where you can make a tangible impact. As Product Manager, you will: Shape the future product portfolio for a market-leading brand. Work with a dynamic team across multiple functions. Be part of a forward-thinking business focused on innovation and sustainability. Gain exposure to senior management and play a key role in business strategy. Enjoy varied responsibilities spanning product development, market analysis, and training. If you re a motivated Product Manager looking to take on an exciting challenge, we d love to hear from you. The Company We are a well-established manufacturer and distributor. With a strong reputation for innovation, quality, and customer service, we supply both commercial and domestic markets across the UK. This is an exciting time to join a growing business that is investing heavily in product development, sustainability, and market expansion.

Job Title: Production Planner Location: Peterlee Salary: £25,000 - £30,000 Benefits: Attractive benefits package available Working Hours: Full-time, Monday to Friday Job Description: We are seeking a Production Planner to join the logistics team, supporting production scheduling and ensuring customer requirements are met. The Production Planner will be responsible for checking and clarifying customer orders, entering data into planning systems, and liaising across departments to guarantee schedules are achieved. This role also involves prioritising and scheduling production orders, supporting outbound delivery schedules, maintaining accurate documentation, and assisting with inventory management. The Production Planner will play a key role in stakeholder communication, responding to requests for information, preparing reports, and contributing to both internal and customer meetings. Ideally, candidates will bring experience from a similar role, though strong IT skills and a flexible, proactive attitude will also be considered. Skills & Experience: Previous planning experience, ideally in an automotive or manufacturing environment Strong IT skills, particularly Excel (Power BI knowledge an advantage) Excellent attention to detail Clear and confident communication skills Flexible and adaptable approach to work Why Should You Apply? This is a fantastic opportunity for a Production Planner seeking to make an impact in a forward-thinking organisation. With exposure to both operational and customer-focused elements of the business, the Production Planner will develop valuable cross-functional skills. If you are detail-oriented, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and want to progress your career in planning and logistics, this Production Planner role is the ideal next step. The Company: An established and innovative manufacturer within the North East, this business is recognised for delivering high-quality products to a global customer base. With a focus on operational excellence and continuous improvement, they provide long-term career opportunities and a supportive environment for growth and development.