Senior Automation Engineer

About FAST

FAST is an advanced manufacturing company, specialising in bespoke machine build, automation, robotics, and software solutions for companies globally. With 25 years experience in industrial automation, FAST provides best‑in‑class automation solutions with a proven track record in the application of automation across all sectors and industries. We develop bespoke technical solutions for a global client base, focusing on state‑of‑the‑art automation technologies that are developed and can be deployed into manufacturing facilities with immediate effect.

Senior Automation Engineer

Engineering Manager

Automation Team

We are seeking an experienced and highly skilled Senior Automation Engineer to lead the design, development and optimisation of automated systems across our operations. As Senior Automation engineer you will play a key role in improving efficiency, reliability, safety, and performance of manufacturing or production processes. This position requires strong technical expertise in control systems, PLC programming, robotics, and industrial automation, along with leadership capability to mentor junior engineers and manage complex projects.

• Take a project from a blank sheet of paper to a final "handover" document, managing budgets and timelines.
• Act as the main project engineer responsible for designing the entire control philosophy, choosing between centralised vs. distributed I/O, selecting communication protocols (Ether Net/IP, PROFINET, OPC UA), and ensuring cybersecurity at the OT level.
• Write complex, reusable, and modular code, working with platforms like Siemens TIA Portal.
• Oversee the creation of electrical schematics, P&IDs, and panel layouts, ensuring compliance with standards such as NEC, UL 508A, or CE.
• Extract data from the machine into a database or cloud platform for predictive maintenance and OEE tracking.
• Integrate multi‑axis servo systems and industrial robots (KUKA, ABB, COBOTS) into the wider automation solution.
• Take the project from the lab to the floor, including physical testing, PID tuning, and troubleshooting in high‑pressure environments.
• Mentor and coach all direct reports to build a high‑performing team ethos.
• Maintain customer focus to keep all projects on target and within budget.
• Lead design meetings to ensure a full understanding of production requirements and schedules, maintaining clear communication with the design team and management.
• Compile bill of materials upon receipt of the design, ensuring timely ordering within schedule.
• Generate drawings before production commences.
• Act as the first point of contact for the client during the production schedule and after dispatch to address any issues or queries.
• Assign relevant tasks to junior engineers and apprentices to ensure efficiency.
• Monitor the project schedule, reporting time constraints or additional costs to the line manager.
• Ensure projects are completed within the relevant timescales and budgets.

• Third level qualification in Electrical/Electronic Engineering.
• 7+ years experience in a senior automation engineering role, preferably within electrical engineering.
• Strong knowledge of control systems, PLC programming and industrial automation.
• Strong analytical skills to remedy problems quickly and correctly.
• Industry standards & safety compliance: awareness of CE marking, ISO machinery directives and risk assessment methodologies.
• Understanding of automation safety standards.
• Ability to compile risk assessments and method statements.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in software packages such as Microsoft Office, Google Docs or equivalent.
• Continuous improvement mindset.
• Mentoring junior staff to develop the next generation of talent.
• Travel regionally, nationally and internationally for SAT tests and commissioning.

Experience working with one or more of the following:

• Robotic applications
• Pneumatics
• Troubleshooting & diagnostics
• Robotics (industrial and/or collaborative)
• Autonomous vehicles
• Knowledge of Industry 4.0 technologies

In return we offer the opportunity to work in a progressive innovative organisation, with ongoing rapid business growth and development opportunities. Our client base includes some of the world’s most successful technology‑based companies and world leaders in manufacturing. You will have autonomy to manage your own workload, and a friendly and supportive team.

Senior Automation Engineer, Automation, PLC programming, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Industrial automation

Parking, paid holidays, laptop, company vehicle, four‑day week