Automation & Facilities Engineer

LIPTON Teas and Infusions is the biggest tea business in the world, with world class purpose driven brands such as Lipton, PG Tips and Pukka. As Lipton Teas and Infusions we are united in one purpose: growing a world of wellbeing through the regenerative power of plants.

In July 2022, CVC Capital Partners Fund VIII took over the full ownership of the LIPTON Teas and Infusions (formally ekaterra) business from its previous owner, Unilever. As a standalone entity with a dedicated single-category focus, Lipton T&I is even better positioned to lead the tea industry, delivering higher growth and value, and a greater impact on the wider world. With 11 production factories in four continents and tea growing estates in three countries, LIPTON Teas and Infusions is a profitable and growing business whose brands reach hundreds of millions of consumers.

It has a presence in over 100 countries.

At LIPTON Teas and Infusions, we work alongside people who put consumer love at the heart of every decision. Diverse minds who celebrate new ideas, share our values and the commitment we have for the wellbeing of all. In return, we create an environment that gives our people space and freedom, where they can grow as leaders. A connected community where ideas can thrive.

Where you explore new challenges. Learning all you need to master your field, and even more about yourself.

Be part of this amazing blend. Join our collective and help us grow a better world of wellbeing and a better you.

Job Title:

Automation & Facilities Engineer

Job Status:
Full-time

Travel:
Limited

The Automation & Facilities Engineer will directly lead technical teams to ensure the reliability of the Suffolk Factory asset base. The high speed, highly automated nature of the operation and the complexity of facilities systems mean this role has an impact on all corners of the factory. There will be significant daily duties in the technical and leadership space, but there will also be a portfolio of projects (some small improvements and some capital projects requiring significant investment).

The ideal candidate will demonstrate a balance of strong technical skill, analytical problem solving, and leadership.

• Lead, motivate, and coach a team of 15-25 employees to enhance engagement and drive high performance.
• Lead and administer 3rd party contractors under annual agreements for routine services, for one‑off major repairs, or for project execution.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, fostering a "safety‑first" culture across the facility.
• Oversee daily engineering & maintenance functions to support factory operations (proactive PM activity, breakdown response, instrument calibrations, etc.).
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on increasing productivity, reducing waste, and optimizing processes.
• Excel in a highly automated manufacturing environment, and drive change to expand the level of automation and adopt advanced modern technologies (predictive maintenance sensing networks, collaborative robots, adaptive learning AGV’s, machine vision, and using AI as leverage across these or other applications).
• Automation Lead for site. Individually as a subject matter expert and broadly leading the E&I team to support PLC’s, industrial networks, drive systems, robotics, machine vision, and other similar systems.
• Facilities Engineering Lead for site. Support through a network of internal resources and contractor resources the building and facilties equipment (HVAC, Compressed Air, Steam, Mobile Equipment Repair, etc.)
• Develop and mentor team members to enhance skillsets and career progression.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including production, quality, and ops planning, to ensure seamless production flow.
• Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify trends and implement corrective actions.
• Manage and resolve employee relations issues, fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.
• Ensure adherence to company policies, regulatory standards, and best operational practices.

• Engineering degree or equivalent. Preference for manufacturing experience, particularly…