Vacancies

Our Current Vacancies:

Controls Design Engineer, Plymouth

Based at our Plymouth site we are seeking a Controls Design engineer to join our Engineering Solutions team.

Our Engineering Solutions division are involved in the design and manufacture of advanced automated equipment and at the heart of each of these pieces of equipment will be a PLC based control system.

Our controls engineers are responsible for the generation of the electrical and fluid power design packs, ensuring that we meet the project technical , lead-time and commercial requirements and providing the information in a way that can be readily translated by our build teams.

A prior familiarity with PLC based control systems and automated equipment would be an advantage but training can be provided for a suitable candidate.

About Applied Automation

Applied Automation (UK) Ltd is internationally renowned as a quality supplier of automation and control equipment. We operate in a number of industries including automotive, marine, medical device and semi conductor manufacture.

Engineering is at the heart of the company with the design and build of bespoke automated equipment and then to compliment this we are national distributors for a number of global brands of control and automation products and we have specialist divisions servicing the marine market place and providing a Build to Print service.

For more information on the role please submit a covering letter with your CV to

Project Manager - Engineering Solutions Division, Plymouth

Main Purpose of Role

Applied Automation’s Engineering Solutions division is looking for a highly organised Project Manager to help ensure the assembly and successful delivery of equipment and services. You will need to be a dependable, self-starter and a good team player who is customer focused and deadline orientated. A sound technical knowledge of all aspects of SPM building and machine automation plus experience with MS Project is required.

Role and responsibilities:

(This list is to outline the common but not exhausted elements)

  • Attend Sales Over Meeting, meet with clients to take detailed ordering briefs and clarify specific requirements of each project.
  • Develop comprehensive project plans to be shared with clients as well as other staff members.
  • Generate Project Quad Charts and monitor project progress in terms of Time, Cost and Quality.
  • Track project performance, specifically to analyse the successful completion of short and long-term goals.
  • Meet budgetary objectives and make adjustments to project constraints based on financial analysis and forward forecasting.
  • Use and continually develop leadership skills.
  • Managing a mixture of small, medium and large projects of varying complexity.
  • Agree and document project objectives.
  • Managing project risks and issues, escalating accordingly.
  • Hosting customers on site to conduct system testing and trials.
  • Managing projects within Workflow and communicating progress to customers.
  • Invoicing projects at key stages.
  • Helping to maintain existing customers and develop new customers.
  • Organising and attending meetings with other functions as required to perform duties and aid business development.
  • Attend training and develop relevant knowledge and skills.
  • Actively support the leadership team in developing and growing the company.
  • Undertake AD Hoc Projects as required by the business.
  • Support and maintain HSE Policies and Procedure.
  • Actively pursuing cost reduction opportunities.

The ideal candidate:

(Essential Experience, Competencies and Qualifications)

  • A level (or equivalent) at A-C level in English, Maths and IT subjects.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with all levels of staff, both written and orally.
  • Competent in the use of Microsoft Word, Excel and Adobe Acrobat.
  • Competent in the use of Microsoft Project.
  • Excellent attention to detail.
  • Ability to plan and organise workload to ensure all deadlines are met.
  • Able to demonstrate a flexible, “can do” approach to their work.
  • An Understanding of Prince 2 and/or APM project management disciplines.

(Preferred Skills)

  • Prince 2 and/or APM Qualified.
  • Understanding of Document Control principles.
  • Technical background.
  • Knowledge of Quality Management Systems.
  • Administration experience gained within an Engineering Environment.

Please send us your CV and a covering letter to

Production Team Leader, PTG Precision Engineers Ltd, Plymouth

PTG, a wholly owned subsidiary of Applied Automation (UK) Ltd., is a Precision Engineering company manufacturing Components, Tooling, Jigs and Fixtures for the OEM, Workholding, Nuclear, Aerospace, Oil & Gas and Mass Transit sectors along with general engineered components.

To lead the manufacturing operation, managing a team of highly skilled engineers, ensuring on time deliveries whilst maintaining our commitment to quality.

The role will encompass

  • Planning / Implementing weekly production schedules
  • Monitoring progress against schedules and taking action where required
  • Scheduling sub-contract operations and liaising with Procurement
  • Processing route sheets

Roles and responsibilities:

  • Ensure the efficient and timely manufacture of parts while meeting quality standards
  • Lead and motivate the team, providing guidance, training, and performance feedback
  • Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement solutions
  • Promote and maintain a positive Health & Safety culture
  • Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements

The ideal candidate:

  • A time served experienced Toolmaker / Engineer
  • Experience in leading and motivating a team of highly skilled engineers
  • Experience of working in a customer focused environment.
  • A positive can-do attitude and ability to work well as part of a team.
  • Have a basic knowledge to use Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Outlook.
  • Attention to detail and a proactive approach to challenges

Please send us your CV and a covering letter to

Sales Application Engineer, Plymouth

As an Automation Application Engineer, you will oversee the review of the customer requirements, the development of the solution, costs and project timeline. Your role will involve designing and inventing new automation solutions to meet complex customer requirements.

Roles and responsibilities:

(This list is to outline the common but not exhausted elements)

  • Engage with the customer through the requirements definition, generating concepts, cost development and presentation of the proposal
  • Engage with the BD/Key Account Manager to support the winning strategy
  • Develop a defined proposal that clarifies all customer requirements
  • Interact with the sales and management teams to lead technical and commercial alignment
  • Present concepts to customers, emphasising competitive advantages
  • Interact with customers as required
  • Ensure effective project handover to the engineering and operations team
  • Follow a standardised quoting process
  • Use standardised tools including templates, cost worksheet, CAD tools for concept approach, compliance matrices depending on industry/customer and FAT/SAT criteria
  • Travelling throughout the UK and Ireland to support customer visits

The ideal candidate:

(Essential Experience, Competencies and Qualifications)

  • HND or Degree in Engineering or equivalent experience
  • 2+ years of industry experience (preferably in the automation industry)
  • Ability to communicate effectively with all levels of staff, both written and orally
  • Experience in quoting, sales and customer interaction is preferred
  • Ability to read and understand mechanical design drawings
  • Ability to develop basic CAD concepts
  • Understanding of electrical and pneumatic control architecture preferred
  • Successfully work with project teams and customers to design and estimate complete systems
  • Recognise and determine cost factors, such as timelines, materials, labour, tooling, etc.

The role is based in Plymouth, although there will be a requirement to work in other areas such as customer sites, which could be in the UK or abroad.

Please send us your CV and a covering letter to

Divisional Manager, Plymouth

Details about the Divisions.
This divisional manager position covers two linked sub-divisions, namely: -
Build to Print HV Serial:
The build of electrical, pneumatic and mechanical systems to a customer’s design pack
Marine Division:
The supply of automation control system for the Marine and Home markets

These two divisions are linked due to the nature of the work, the team share a common production manager and build teams enabling flexibility between the resource.

Main Purpose of Role

As the manager for the Build-to-print HV & Marine division you will have overall responsibility for ensuring the division achieves the mission, goals and objectives as outlined in the company Business Plan.

You will take on overall responsibility of the divisional activities from Enquiry receipt through to goods dispatch ensuring key KPIs are met.

Role and responsibilities:

(This list is to outline the common but not exhausted elements)

  • General management of a multi-million-pound engineering division, responsible for 50+ employees.
  • Performance management, objective setting, delivering appraisals, upskilling and succession planning.
  • To manage high-level customer communications ensuring long established relationships are maintained.
  • To ensure daily activities comply with Quality, Safety and Environmental policies, procedures and instructions.
  • Report to senior management on the performance of the division and any requirements for improvement.
  • Facilitate a culture to develop an effective relationship with other team members, departments, suppliers and customer personnel as appropriate to maintain product and service quality.

The ideal candidate:

  • Experience within a management/manager role.
  • A manufacturing, technical or industrial background.
  • Strong research and analytical skills.
  • Sound financial management skills.
  • Excellent leadership skills: communicate clear objectives, provide feedback, suggest improvement for individual performance and coaching.
  • Excellent change management skills: adapts to changing business needs, introduces new ways of working, thinking and behaving.
  • Understanding of business management principles.
  • Proficient in MS office.
  • Strong coaching, mentoring and leadership skills.

Please send us your CV and a covering letter to

Controls Software Engineer/Senior Controls Software Engineer, Plymouth

At Applied Automation (UK) Ltd, we design and deliver world-class automation solutions to customers across a wide range of industries including Medical Technology (device), Automotive, Aerospace, and General Industry Manufacturing. As we continue to grow and take on new challenges, we are looking for a talented Controls Software Engineer to join our Engineering Solutions Division and play a pivotal role in delivering high-quality bespoke automation systems.

Purpose of the Role

You will be responsible for the design, development, testing, and commissioning of industrial automation software using PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems. From early concept and design through to final customer handover, your expertise will help ensure that all automation projects meet performance, quality, and safety standards.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Design and develop PLC and HMI/SCADA software for bespoke automation equipment
  • Create and maintain Software Design Specifications, software architecture, and test documentation, and other necessary technical documentation (including operator instruction manuals)
  • Collaborate closely with mechanical and electrical teams to ensure system integration and alignment
  • Take ownership of software elements of assigned projects, managing scope, customer requirements, timelines, and deliverables
  • Support machine commissioning activities in collaboration with the commissioning team, including conducting internal testing, Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) in the UK and internationally
  • Provide remote and on-site evaluations, diagnostics, and troubleshooting of automation systems, as well as delivering post-installation services and customer training when required
  • Ensure all work meets relevant safety standards, including CE compliance
  • Contribute to continuous improvement efforts, standardising processes and identifying technical innovations
  • Communicate accurate project status to management, key internal and external stakeholders, and suppliers to enable proactive planning and issue resolution
  • Maintain accurate project records and contribute to knowledge sharing within the team
  • Participate in internal design reviews on new and potential projects.
  • Engage with customers and suppliers as a technical representative of the company

Key Skills & Experience:

Essential:

  • Ability to read and interpret electrical and control system drawings, with the capability to fault-find where necessary
  • Proficient in programming one or more PLC/HMI platforms (e.g. Siemens, Omron, Rockwell, Mitsubishi, Schneider)
  • Experience with system commissioning and fault finding on live automated machinery
  • Motion control and servo systems experience
  • Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT, Profinet, etc.)
  • Strong understanding of control system architecture, safety systems, and I/O structures
  • Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving ability, with a proactive approach to overcoming technical challenges
  • Comfortable working in fast-paced project environments and delivering to deadlines
  • Excellent documentation and communication skills

Desirable:

  • Vision system or industrial robotics integration
  • Experience with SCADA systems
  • Familiarity with risk assessments, CE documentation, and safety validation (SISTEMA, FMEA)
  • Previous experience in the validation processes and GAMP or pharmaceutical/regulated environments.
  • Proven experience working with electrical, pneumatic, or mechanical systems within the automation industry

Qualifications:

  • Apprenticeship background or demonstrable practical experience in automation systems
  • Preferably a HNC/HND or Degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Mechatronics, or similar discipline
  • Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel to customers sites (including overseas assignments).

Company Values & Expected Conduct:

At Applied Automation, we expect all team members to embody and promote our core values across every project and interaction. As a Control Software Engineer, you will be a key ambassador of our standards, both on-site and with customers.

We ask that you:

  • Demonstrate integrity, accountability, and professionalism in all work and communication
  • Work collaboratively and respectfully with colleagues across all departments
  • Strive for continuous improvement and innovation in line with our engineering excellence ethos
  • Take ownership of safety, quality, and compliance in every task
  • Represent the business positively with customers and partners, upholding our reputation for technical expertise and reliability

We believe that maintaining a supportive, honest, and forward-thinking environment helps us deliver exceptional solutions, and we expect all employees to contribute to that culture.

Please send us your CV and a covering letter to

Quality Engineer, Plymouth

Main Purpose of Role

As the Quality Engineer you will be responsible for supporting the Quality Manager with the implementation of quality standards and processes across the organisations various industries and departments. We are looking for an experienced Quality Engineer to help maintain and develop the company’s management system, to support monitoring companywide performance and the compliance/conformance of reporting mechanisms to ensure the company remain compliant with various regulatory bodies, systems and customers.

Role & Responsibilities:

(This list is to outline the common but not exhausted elements)

  • Reports to the Quality Manager and is responsible for all administration, control, day-to-day running and maintenance of the documented quality management system.
  • Has the authority in the Quality Manager’s absence to act as the Quality Representative in managing and maintaining an effective quality management system including decision making and to act as a delegated signatory.
  • Actively support the Quality Manager with the performance & continuous improvement of the Quality Management System.
  • Monitoring of quality performance, identifying trends, potential and actual non-conformances and processes through data gathering analysis/monitoring and auditing.
  • Analysing trends and reporting of the company’s quality data including supplier performance.
  • Acts as CAPA Coordinator to manage the CAPA process and to be the primary point of contact for customer concerns.
  • Root cause analysis and implementation of permanent corrective actions, including verification of their effectiveness.
  • Work collaboratively with relevant stakeholders to investigate and implement corrective actions for internal quality issues.
  • Support the Quality Manager with the implementation and maintenance of the internal auditing program.
  • Mentor and support a small team of Internal Auditors.
  • Manage the calibration process within the company.
  • Support the Purchasing department with supplier assessments and auditing where applicable.
  • Process supplier defective materials.
  • Collaborate with both Engineering and Production functions to ensure quality standards are met.
  • Support Design and Engineering departments with new product introduction and contract reviews.
  • Carry out and compile FAI/ISIR reports when necessary.
  • Develop, implement and provide training for customer/product quality sign off sheets.

The ideal candidate:

  • 5 years’ experience within a Quality Engineering role.
  • A manufacturing, technical or industrial background.
  • Experience of using 8D/root cause analysis methodology.
  • Excellent attention to detail.
  • Excellent analytical skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  • In-depth knowledge of ISO9001:2015.
  • Proficient in use of MS office software.
  • Strong coaching and mentoring skills.
  • ISO9001:2015 qualified Auditor - Lead Auditor preferred.

Please send us your CV and a covering letter to

Junior Marine Electrical Design Engineer, Plymouth

We are looking for a highly motivated and detail-oriented Junior Marine Electrical Design Engineer to join our Marine division. This role is focused on the design and development of electrical control systems for marine applications, including automation panels, control wiring, power distribution, and integration with onboard systems. You will work under the guidance of senior engineers to deliver safe, compliant, and robust electrical solutions for a variety of marine vessels and platforms.

Roles and responsibilities:

(This list is to outline the common but not exhausted elements)

  • Assist in the design and development of marine electrical systems, including control panels, PLC/HMI interfaces, and power distribution.
  • Produce accurate electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, panel layouts, and cable schedules using CAD tools (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN).
  • Support the creation of technical documentation, including system specifications, FAT/SAT procedures, and commissioning manuals.
  • Collaborate closely with mechanical design, software, and project teams to ensure full system integration.
  • Ensure all designs comply with relevant marine standards and classification requirements (e.g., DNV, Lloyd’s Register, ABS).
  • Help with component selection, sourcing, and BOM generation.
  • Support system testing, troubleshooting, and commissioning—both in-house and occasionally on-site
  • Participate in design reviews and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements:

  • Degree or HND in Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, or a related discipline.
  • Familiarity with electrical design tools such as AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN, or similar.
  • Understanding of marine electrical systems, control circuits, and instrumentation.
  • Basic knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, and automation systems.
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and technical documentation.
  • Excellent attention to detail, organisational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
  • Willingness to travel occasionally to vessel sites, shipyards, or client locations.

Desirable:

  • Internship or 1–2 years' experience in electrical design, preferably in a marine, offshore, or industrial automation context.
  • Familiarity with relevant standards such as IEC, ISO, or classification society requirements.
  • Experience with marine certification processes or working alongside certifying bodies.

Please send us your CV and a covering letter to

Accounts and Payroll Assistant, Plymouth

Main Purpose of Role

The main purpose of this role is to assist in all aspects of accounts, payroll and administration.

Role & Responsibilities:

(This list is to outline the common but not exhausted elements)

  • Matching supplier invoices to delivery notes and process onto the accounting software.
  • Validating supplier invoices using the goods-received software.
  • Managing supplier database and payment chaser log.
  • Reconciling supplier statements to the accounting software.
  • Prepare supporting financial accounting reports.
  • Undertake BACS and foreign payment runs, loading payments onto the banking platform as well as the accounting software.
  • Assist with payroll admin.
  • Process monthly credit card statements.
  • Support daily accounting duty and perform ad-hoc assignments from time to time as assigned by the Accounts Office Manager.
  • Handling basic paperwork and assisting with telephone call handling.

The ideal candidate:

  • Someone with accounts office experience is desirable.
  • Grade C or above in Mathematics.
  • Excellent attention to detail.
  • Competent using Microsoft Office packages.
  • Ability to work on your own and as part of a team.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Ability to work on multiple tasks and understand how to prioritise.

Please send us your CV and a covering letter to

Buyer, Plymouth

We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Buyer to join our procurement team.
The successful candidate will be responsible for sourcing and procuring a wide range of mechanical, electrical, toolmaking and fabricated components, as well as managing supplier relationships and ensuring timely delivery to meet project deadlines.

Roles and responsibilities:

(This list is to outline the common but not exhausted elements)

To support and provide assistance with:

  • Source and procure materials, components, and services required for projects across multiple internal divisions, namely: Engineering, B2P, Marine, CME etc.
  • To support the business technically by providing a detailed knowledge of our engineering supply base. This is to include the ability to identify suitable suppliers based on skillset and resource following a review of the detailed manufacturing drawings.
  • Liaise with engineering and design teams to ensure specifications are met.
  • Identify and negotiate with new and existing suppliers to ensure best value.
  • Support the monitoring of supplier performance, lead times, and service levels.
  • Raise and manage purchase orders in line with project schedules.
  • Track and expedite deliveries to ensure on-time availability of materials.
  • Maintain accurate procurement records and reporting.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of procurement processes and cost-saving initiatives.
  • Support inventory management and stock control as required.
  • Support the department to process weekly/monthly reports, excel spreadsheets, as well as KPI’s.
  • Ensure a healthy relationship is maintained with our key suppliers/customers.
  • Ensure that quality standards are maintained and (OTD) on time delivery targets are met.

Requirements:

  • Proven experience in a buying or procurement role, ideally within an engineering or manufacturing environment.
  • Strong understanding of engineering drawings and technical specifications.
  • Excellent negotiation and supplier management skills.
  • Organised, with strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities.
  • Confident communicator able to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
  • Proficiency with ERP or purchasing systems (e.g., Sage, SAP, etc.).
  • Good working knowledge of Microsoft Excel and Office suite.

Desirable:

  • Experience with automation systems, machine building or capital equipment projects.
  • Familiarity with low-volume, high-variation manufacturing environments.

Please send us your CV and a covering letter to

Application Sales Engineer – Applied Automation Technical Distribution Division, Portsmouth

We are seeking a motivated and experienced Application Sales Engineer to join our Technical Distribution Sales Team in the South and South West of England.

The ideal candidate will be located along the South Coast and will be working out of our Waterlooville office. Alternatively, you will have easy access to this geographical area.

About the company

Applied Automation (Technical Distribution Division) provides and supports multiple manufacturers, products and services into the End User and OEM marketplace, primarily across the South, South West of England and South Wales.

We are rapidly growing and offer an exciting work environment with constantly changing and growing challenges across a wide variety and number of industries. Products vary from Cobots, Vision Systems, Drives, PLC’s & Pneumatics and Industrial Cyber Security.

Roles and responsibilities:

(This list is to outline the common but not exhausted elements)

  • Work directly with our customers to develop new and existing business with our products solutions.
  • Sell to and develop business with a wide variety of End User and OEM’s within your designated sales territory.
  • Professionally represent Applied Automation to customers and ask specific questions to gather relevant data - helping define an ideal solution or product.
  • Recognise and understand our customer’s needs, make suggestions for possible solutions, and make appropriate recommendations.
  • Travel to customer sites to discuss applications and product requirements.
  • Keep up to date with the products and services of the manufacturers we represent.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Good commercial awareness.
  • Experienced in the use of CRM systems and Microsoft Office tools.
  • Keeping the companies means of recording communication and information regarding customers and projects up to date.
  • Additional duties may be assigned, as required.

Requirements:

  • HND/HNC in an engineering-related discipline (e.g. Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, etc.).
  • Minimum of five (5) years in automation sales, robotics, vison systems, machine building or hi-tech manufacturing industries.
  • Be familiar with and have experience of pneumatics, PLC’s, vision systems, sensors and the associated technologies and products.
  • Ability to read and interpret Electrical and/or Mechanical drawings.
  • Strong interpersonal skills – successful candidates be highly effective communicators, able to influence external and internal stakeholders and put collaborate at the heart of how they operate.
  • Well organised, excellent problem solver, strong attention to detail and ability to prioritise and multi-task.
  • Have an entrepreneurial approach to sales.
  • Applicants must be eligible to work in the UK.
  • Willing to travel as this role is field-based.

Please send us your CV and a covering letter to