Automation Engineer

Job Title: Manufacturing Engineer (Automation / Process Control)Location: Manchester
Salary: £60,000 + benefits

The Opportunity
We're supporting the build of a brand-new, highly regulated manufacturing and R&D facility in Manchester.
This is a genuinely unique opportunity to join a site from the ground up, working in a technical, project-led environment focused on advanced process control, automation and small-batch production.
This role is far more than a "keep the line running" position, it's heavily involved in automation, system setup, validation and continuous improvement within a GMP-regulated setting.

The Role
You'll play a key role in delivering and supporting automated manufacturing systems across the site, working closely with engineering, projects and operations teams.
Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting the design, setup and commissioning of automated process systems
• Working across PLC, SCADA, DCS and HMI platforms
• Leading and supporting capital projects from concept through to validation
• Developing technical documentation including SOPs, specifications and validation protocols
• Supporting GMP compliance, change control and validation activities (IQ/OQ/PQ)
• Troubleshooting and resolving process control and automation issues
• Supporting new product and technology introduction from an engineering perspective
• Driving improvements in automation performance and system reliability

Technical Environment
You'll be working within a regulated, batch-process manufacturing environment, with exposure to:

• PLC / SCADA / DCS systems (Rockwell / DeltaV environments)
• Batch control systems and automation strategies
• GMP / GAMP / 21 CFR Part 11 compliance
• Process equipment such as:
  • filtration systems
  • fluid handling systems
  • bioprocess-style equipment
• Clean utilities and building systems (HVAC, purified water, etc.)

What We're Looking For

• Strong background in automation, controls or process engineering
• Experience working in a GMP or regulated manufacturing environment (pharma, biotech, chemical, etc.)
• Hands-on experience with PLC / SCADA / DCS systems
• Understanding of validation processes (IQ/OQ/PQ) and compliance frameworks
• Experience supporting projects, commissioning or system implementation
• Ability to troubleshoot and improve complex process control systems

Desirable Experience

• Exposure to platforms such as DeltaV, FactoryTalk or ControlLogix
• Experience with batch processing and process automation
• Knowledge of GAMP, 21 CFR Part 11, S88 / S95
• Experience with:
  • bioprocessing systems
  • CIP / COP / autoclaves
  • cleanroom or controlled environments

Why This Role?

• Be part of a greenfield site setup
• Work in a highly technical, automation-led environment
• Move away from repetitive manufacturing into project-based engineering
• Gain exposure to advanced regulated manufacturing systems
• Long-term progression within a growing, specialist operation

Additional Info

• Permanent position
• Some flexibility required to support site operations when needed
• Strong emphasis on safety, compliance and engineering standards

Next Steps
If this looks aligned with your background, I'd be happy to talk you through the role in more detail.