How to Get an Automation Engineer Job in the UK

5 Minutes

Automation is transforming industries across the UK, from advanced manufacturing and logisti...

Automation is transforming industries across the UK, from advanced manufacturing and logistics to life sciences, energy, and building systems. As businesses continue to digitise their operations and enhance productivity, the demand for automation engineers has grown. For professionals seeking stable, future-focused careers, automation engineering offers long-term prospects and evolving challenges.

This blog provides a full overview of how to become an automation engineer in the UK. It covers the roles and responsibilities involved, key skills employers look for, the qualifications that are typically required, and strategies for securing a job. Whether you’re early in your career or pivoting from a related discipline, this guide is designed to help you move forward.

What Does an Automation Engineer Do?

Automation engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining systems that reduce the need for manual processes in industrial and commercial settings. Their work can involve everything from programming control systems and deploying robotic solutions to testing integrated technologies and ensuring compliance with safety standards.

They often collaborate with software developers, mechanical and electrical engineers, quality assurance teams, and operations personnel. The role combines hands-on engineering with analytical thinking and problem-solving. Tasks can range from writing PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) code and configuring sensor networks to troubleshooting performance issues and commissioning new lines or systems.

Automation engineers are employed in a wide range of sectors, including:

  • Manufacturing and industrial production
  • Robotics and control systems
  • Building automation (HVAC, lighting, energy)
  • Life sciences and pharmaceutical production
  • Renewable energy and power generation
  • Oil and gas extraction and refining
  • Warehousing and logistics automation

The Growth of Automation in the UK

The UK is undergoing significant digital and industrial transformation. Automation is at the heart of initiatives aimed at increasing productivity, enhancing supply chain resilience, and modernising public infrastructure. This has created a rising demand for automation engineers across the country.

Companies are increasingly adopting technologies such as robotics, industrial IoT (Internet of Things), machine learning, and advanced SCADA systems. These technologies require skilled engineers to design, deploy, and maintain them. From automated warehouses and robotic assembly lines to intelligent energy systems, automation engineers play a key role in delivering operational efficiency and innovation.

Recruitment firms such as Mackinnon Bruce International have reported continued growth across the automation sector. We partner with companies developing cutting-edge control technologies and help them build teams with expertise in automation project delivery, systems integration, and digital engineering.

Essential Skills for Automation Engineers

To succeed in an automation engineering role, candidates must develop a strong combination of technical and soft skills. These competencies form the basis for effective project execution, team collaboration, and problem resolution in complex operational environments.

Technical Skills

  • PLC Programming: Proficiency with systems such as Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Mitsubishi, or Omron is essential. Engineers must be able to write, test, and debug control logic.
  • Control Systems Design: Experience designing, configuring, and implementing distributed control systems (DCS), HMI (Human Machine Interface), and SCADA platforms.
  • Industrial Networking: Knowledge of communication protocols like Modbus, ProfiNet, CANbus, and Ethernet/IP for device-to-device and system-to-system communication.
  • Robotics Integration: Familiarity with robot programming and hardware integration, particularly for industrial applications.
  • Sensor Technology: Ability to work with instrumentation for data acquisition, control, and automation feedback loops.
  • Safety Systems: Understanding of industry safety standards, risk assessments, and functional safety systems such as SIL-rated controls.

Software & Digital Competencies

  • Scripting and Programming: Basic understanding of scripting languages such as Python, Structured Text, or C for automation tasks.
  • Simulation Tools: Use of modelling and simulation software to test system behaviours before deployment.
  • Data Analysis: Ability to interpret performance data and adjust systems accordingly.
  • Digital Twins & AI: Growing familiarity with AI-powered automation and virtual replicas for performance monitoring.

Soft Skills

  • Strong communication for cross-functional collaboration
  • Analytical thinking to troubleshoot and optimise systems
  • Project management and time efficiency
  • Adaptability to new technologies and processes
  • Attention to detail and documentation discipline

Educational Background and Certifications

Automation engineers typically hold a degree or diploma in an engineering discipline such as electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, robotics, or mechatronics. Some professionals enter the field through degree apprenticeships, which combine academic training with hands-on work experience.

Relevant courses might include:

  • BEng or MEng in Mechatronics or Automation Engineering
  • HND or foundation degree in Control Systems or Electronics
  • Industry certifications such as TUV Functional Safety Engineer or vendor training from Siemens, Rockwell, or Schneider Electric

For those coming from related fields such as IT, software engineering, or general mechanical design, upskilling through short courses or certifications in PLC programming, industrial automation, or robotics can support a smooth transition.

 

Career Progression Pathways

An entry-level automation engineer may begin in a junior support or technician role, helping to install and test automated systems under supervision. With experience, they may move into roles involving system architecture, project leadership, or specialised functions such as robotics engineering.

Experienced automation engineers can progress into:

  • Lead automation engineer
  • Controls or SCADA systems manager
  • Engineering team manager
  • Digital transformation consultant
  • Industry-specific specialist (e.g., automotive, packaging, pharma)

Some engineers branch into more strategic roles involving technology planning, R&D, or operations management. Others move into commercial or business development positions within automation solution providers, where they use their technical knowledge to consult on large-scale implementations.

Where to Find Automation Engineer Jobs in the UK

Automation engineer jobs are available across the UK, with major hubs in the Midlands, North West, South East, and Scotland. Opportunities can be found in cities like London, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Glasgow, and Bristol, as well as industrial clusters with strong manufacturing or logistics operations.

Job roles are commonly listed on platforms such as:

  • LinkedIn
  • Reed
  • Indeed
  • TotalJobs
  • Recruitment Companies’ job boards 
  • Engineering-specific boards like JustEngineers or TheEngineer

For more targeted roles, working with a specialist recruitment firm like Mackinnon Bruce can provide access to exclusive opportunities and insights into the hiring preferences of specific employers. We can support candidates in refining their CVs, preparing for interviews, and aligning their experience with employer requirements.

Tips for Securing an Automation Engineer Role

Here are practical steps for professionals aiming to secure automation engineer jobs in the UK:

  • Tailor your CV to highlight specific technologies, software platforms, and project outcomes relevant to automation.
  • Pursue hands-on experience through apprenticeships, internships, or freelance projects—even on a small scale.
  • Stay current with trends in robotics, machine learning, and Industry 4.0. Knowledge of emerging tech makes you more competitive.
  • Develop a strong LinkedIn presence, connect with recruiters, and follow automation-related companies and groups.
  • Engage in continuous learning through online courses, certifications, and industry events.

Here’s a guide to enhancing your CV for more tips and advice.

Building a portfolio of project experience, along with certifications or practical demonstrations of skills, can help you stand out in a crowded job market.

Final Thoughts

Automation engineering represents one of the most dynamic and future-proof careers in the UK today. With industries across the board turning to digital transformation and smart technology adoption, the need for skilled automation professionals continues to grow.

Whether you’re entering the job market for the first time or reskilling from a related field, success in automation engineering comes down to combining technical competence, industry insight, and a proactive approach to career development.

Explore opportunities in the automation sector with industry-recognised recruiters here.  

 

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