Automation Engineer

Pontefract & Hellaby based (Field-based role with a UK-wide remit)
Full-time, site-based across two of our modern manufacturing sites

Are you a passionate automation specialist with a strong engineering background and a flair for solving problems? Ready to take the next step in your career within a supportive and high-performing team? We’re looking for an Automation Engineer to join our Central Engineering Team and help drive the automation agenda across our Pontefract and Hellaby sites.

What you’ll be doing:

As our Automation Engineer, you’ll be at the heart of keeping our systems running smoothly, safely, and smartly. You’ll play a key role in ensuring our automation and control systems are fully available, backed up, and continuously improving – while making sure the right safeguards, documentation, and change processes are in place.

This is a hands-on, field-based role where you’ll:

• Lead and support automation projects from concept through to full handover, including installation and commissioning

• Use your knowledge to contribute to Continuous Improvement (CI) initiatives, site efficiency, and system optimisation

• Be a key stakeholder in capital projects, collaborating cross-functionally to deliver technical solutions that support our broader business goals

• Work with operational technology infrastructure and energy management systems

• Support our Manufacturing Execution System (MES) for effective data collection and production insight

• Ensure our systems meet all compliance, legislative, and food safety requirements

You’ll work as part of a dynamic, forward-thinking team – with plenty of opportunities to grow, develop, and make a real impact.

What’s in it for you?  

We believe in giving back and making sure you're happy and thriving. Here's a taste of what we offer: 

• 5% bonus scheme – with an excellent track record of over-achievement  

• Comprehensive Healthcare Support – Access to a Medicash Health Cash Plan or Private Healthcare, including a Digital GP service, Best Doctors (Second Medical Opinion Service), and specialist Cancer Care for peace of mind when you need it most.

• KP Pension Plan - contribution matching up to 7% of your salary

• 25 days holiday + holiday buy scheme 

• KP4ME - online benefits, discounts, prizes, competitions and information platform with access to mental, physical and financial wellbeing information and tools 

Who are we?  

Glad you asked! We're KP Snacks, proud to be part of the Intersnack family. Picture this: over 15,000 of us, spread across more than 30 countries, all working together to create the snacks you love. From Hula Hoops to McCoy's, we're the team behind your favourite munchies. 

Here in the UK, we're about 2,400 strong, spread across seven factories and our Slough HQ. But don't let our size fool you – we're as close-knit as they come. We believe in speaking our minds, celebrating our differences, and pushing boundaries together. 

Diversity isn't just a buzzword for us.  We're on a mission to create a workplace where everyone belongs. So, even if you don't tick every box, we want to hear from you! Your unique perspective could be just what we need. Also, if there's anything we can do to make this process easier for you, just give us a shout. 

We’d love to hear from you if you bring a solid automation background and hands-on experience in a manufacturing setting. You'll need:

Qualifications & Background:

• HNC or above in an engineering discipline, or time-served apprenticeship with strong practical experience

• A background in automation engineering – ideally within food manufacturing or FMCG

• A solid foundation in electrical engineering and control systems

Technical Experience:

• Siemens TIA Portal (essential)

• Other PLC systems such as GX Works, CX Programmer, Rockwell Automation

• MES platforms and data collection systems

• Operational technology and energy management systems

Project & CI Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in project engineering and management

• Involvement in maintenance and continuous improvement programmes

• Familiarity with quality management systems and legislative/food safety compliance

• Comfortable with budgeting, CapEx processes, and procurement

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