General Engineering
There's nothing general about our approachWith over 60 years experience in engineering and manufacturing recruitment, there aren't many roles or industries we haven't already recruited for. So whet...
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specialists in
BRIDGING THE SKILLS GAP WITHIN
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Special Purpose Machinery
We make our process as bespoke as your machineryThe Special Purpose Machinery sector sees companies manufacturing bespoke and custom made machines which are used across the FMCG, Automotive, Aeros...
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Process Engineering
A robust process for a fluid marketThe Process Engineering sector has been a cornerstone of ATA's engineering recruitment activities for nearly two decades. We have worked extensively with both s...
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Automotive
The automotive sector is highly driven by quality of process, which this fits perfectly with the ATA WayEmploying 182,000 people and generating £67 billion for the UK economy, Automotive is one o...
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Aerospace
Quality driven recruitment and manufacturing go hand in handEmploying over 110,000 people and generating £22.4 billion in turnover for the UK economy, the aerospace sector continues to be one of ...
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Food (FMCG)
Through our in-depth knowledge of the Food and FMCG sectors, we have built a strong track record of delivering quality candidates to our customersFood manufacturing is well established as one of ...
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Warehouse Automation
As the Warehouse Automation sector has grown, we have grown with it, developing strong relationships with a number of OEM's as well as many of the UK's biggest end users. Our specialist team have...
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Construction Materials Manufacturing
Building the highly-skilled teams you need to keep your business thrivingWe've been working with some of the biggest names in the construction materials manufacturing sector for several years, bu...
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Latest engineering & MANUFACTURING Jobs
Site Services Engineer
£43000 - 43000 per year 7% Pension, 28 Days Holiday, Training, Progression
Worksop
Site Services Engineer, Worksop (S80), £43,000, 7% Matched Pension, 28 Days Holiday Mon - Fri (8:00am – 16:00pm) I am working with one of the largest FMCG manufacturers in the country, providing nationally loved products to the well-known high-street brands across the country. The company has been proudly producing for over a century, while still being a family-owned business retaining the family-oriented values it began with. The right site services engineer for this role will be trained using modern methods (such as specially assembled training rooms and skill matrixes), encouraged to progress, and supported throughout their time with the company no matter what step on the career ladder they are on. About the role As a site services engineer in this role, you will be maintaining a range of equipment such as Boilers, Air Filtration Systems, PSSR Systems, FGAS, Refrigeration and Air Compressors. You will be expected to: Perform electrical installation work to the latest BS7671 Test electrical installations as per the requirement under BS7671 Fault finds on electrical systems Conduct contractor Inductions, oversee contractors and act as the point of contact Operate a Permit to Work System Carrying out building maintenance, Electrical installation and plant services equipment repairs Conduct routine plant services preventative maintenance including refrigeration, legionella testing & air compressors Carry out legislative testing and inspections Supervise plant services installations Ensure the close monitoring and control of contractors Provide assistance to the maintenance team and provide emergency callout cover where required Ensure all procedures and systems are kept up to date Comply with Health & Safety, Food Hygiene and Environmental Legislation About you To be considered for this site services engineer role you should be/have the following: Have gained engineering skills in electrical or multi-skilled electrical bias Hold a formal electrical engineering qualification minimum Level 3 Be able to fault find and problem solve both electrically and mechanically Have an excellent understanding of site, buildings and machinery compliance to health and safety requirements including PUWER & COSHH Knowledge of general building practices, working with water and electrical appliances and experience of maintaining boilers. The right site services engineer for this opportunity will enjoy a fast-paced environment with lots of engineering challenges to overcome while improving your skillset. This will require problem solving skills, a motivated and proactive personality, and the ability to work well with others. If you believe that this describes you, then Apply Now to join the family who drive the future of FMCG. If you want to know more about this role or any of the other roles that we currently have available then email me at zac.polnyj@ata-recruitment.co.uk to arrange an initial discussion. ATA is committed to creating a diverse workforce and is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation
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FLT Driver/Production Operative
£15 - 15 per hour £1.79p/h (Holiday Pay)
Coleshill
Production Operative/FLT Driver – Coleshill, Birmingham Salary: £14.80 p/h plus £1.79 holiday pay per hour Contract: Temporary to Permanent (3 months) Shifts: Continental Shift Pattern Start Date: Immediate This well-established company based in Coleshill is looking for Production Operatives/FLT Drivers to join their growing team at their production site. The company is expanding due to increased demand and requires motivated and reliable individuals who are open to a variety of tasks within the production environment. The role will involve driving large FLTs as well as carrying out additional duties when required. If you are interested in this role, please get in touch with Fred O’Reilly on 07827918324 or email your CV to fred.oreilly@ata-recruitment.co.uk The FLT Driver will be responsible for: Operating large counterbalance FLTs (B1 or B2). Transporting materials across the production site. Sometimes assisting with production duties including machine operation and physical labour. Upholding health and safety practices on site. Maintaining cleanliness and order across the site. The FLT Driver must possess the following skills and experience: FLT driving experience (preferably with B1 or B2). Experience within a heavy manufacturing environment (preferably production or machine operative). Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment. Be reliable, motivated, and a good communicator. Willingness to carry out additional tasks as needed. Must pass Drugs and Alcohol Test. Benefits of the FLT Driver position: Competitive salary Full training and development provided. Long-term career opportunities within the company. Opportunity to progress within a growing business. ATA is committed to creating a diverse workforce and is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation
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Mechanical Fitter
£41000 - 42000 per year OT + KPI Bous
Widnes
Mechanical Fitter Location- Widnes Shifts- Double Days (6-2/2-10) Salary- £41,000-£42,000 Holiday Days- 22 days + 8 Bank Holidays (Increasing to 27 + 8) The company ATA are working with a well known manufacturing business due to their expansion they’re looking for a mechanical fitter to join their team. The role of a mechanical fitter Complex welding Tig, Mig and Stick Gearbox Overhauls Component Repairs Machine installs Reactive maintenance Benefits for a Mechanical Fitter KPI related bonus. No Weekend Work Plenty of Overtime available Chance to gain more holidays days after length of service. What our client is looking for A confident Welder NVQ 3 qualification in welding or engineering Problem Solver Team Player If you’re a Mechanical fitter looking for the opportunity to join a great working environment for a company who invest time and money into their employees, then now is your chance. then we want to hear from you interviews can be arranged immediately so apply by following the online instructions or send a CV to Taylor.Hardwick@ata-recruitment.co.uk ATA is committed to creating a diverse workforce and is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation
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Technical Sales Manager
£45000 - 50400 per year OTE £60,000 plus annual bonus
Nottinghamshire
Technical Sales Manager Nottinghamshire £45,000 + commission (OTE £60,000), company car, and annual bonus The Company We are partnering with a global leader in the design and manufacture of bespoke, high-value mechanical products, renowned for delivering specialised solutions to some of the world’s most demanding industries. With a focus on low-volume, custom engineered products, our client serves top-tier players in the oil & gas, power generation, and industrial sectors. As one of the few companies globally offering this unique range of tailored products they combine cutting-edge technology with unmatched industry expertise, resulting in an annual turnover of £6 million. Their commitment to precision and quality ensures they provide highly specialised, high-performance solutions that meet the exacting needs of their clients. As a result they are looking to recruit a Technical Sales Manager with immediate effect. The Role As a Technical Sales Manager, you will be responsible for driving business growth within the Western Europe region, focusing on both new and existing business opportunities. This is a dynamic role where you will take charge of a patch with a balanced split: 80% existing accounts and 20% new business development. You will be managing projects that range in value from £10k to £100k, but can scale into the millions for larger, complex projects. Project timelines will vary, from a few weeks to multiple years, depending on the scope and scale. Responsibilities include: Take charge of generating new business by actively hunting for leads and driving growth from existing client relationships. Respond to inbound enquiries and strategically reach out to high-potential clients within your territory. Developing a deep understanding of customer needs and positioning tailored solutions with a consultative sales approach. Build and cultivate a network of industry contacts through LinkedIn, events, and referrals. Stay ahead of the game by tracking industry trends, new project awards, and untapped opportunities to fuel sales success. The Candidate To be successful in your application for this Technical Sales Manager role you will need: A strong technical understanding of mechanical engineering, with demonstrated experience in an engineering discipline A background of sales in a high value, low volume production environment A consultative sales approach with the ability to understand client needs and present tailored solutions. A desire to build and maintain long-term relationships, demonstrating a commitment to client success Willing to travel internationally as required to attend industry events and conferences The Benefits For this Technical Sales Manager role the following benefits are on offer: £45,000 base salary Company car or car allowance of £450 per month Uncapped commission (OTE £60,000) Discretionary annual bonus Flexible working hours 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays If you’re interested please apply online, send your CV to lauren.woolley@ata-search.co.uk or give me a call on 07773 207 097 ATA Recruitment specialises in Manufacturing, Infrastructure, Civil, Transportation and general Engineering recruitment on both a permanent and contract basis – for more opportunities like this one, visit our website. By applying you accept the terms of our Privacy Notice which can be found on our website. ATA is committed to creating a diverse workforce and is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation
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Electronics Engineer/Electronics Project Engineer
£39 - 48 per hour
Milton Keynes
Electronics Engineer/Electronics Project Engineer - Milton Keynes PAYE - Between £39.22 - £42.59ph (Inclusive of holiday pay) Umbrella - Between £45.00 - £48.00ph Working Hours - Monday to Friday 0800 - 1700 Initial 9 Month Contract with potential extension Our client and the role overview: Our client are currently seeking an Electronics Engineer/ Electronics Project Engineer to oversee and manage the delivery of electronics projects. This includes handling new developments, lifecycle management, and PCB design updates, from initial specification through to validation. The ideal candidate must be adaptable, able to take on multiple roles within the team, and work independently when necessary. Key Responsibilities: Project Support: Deliver electronic design updates and manage implementation into production, tracking component obsolescence/EOL. Design & Validation: Conceptual design, requirements, calculations, design checking, and validation testing with reports. Engineering Documentation: Create and maintain design requirements, specifications, BOMs, and other technical documents. Supplier Management: Liaise with PCB suppliers for prototype design and manufacturing. Design Review: Check schematics and layouts, applying industry best practices and design rules. Testing & Validation: Build PCB assemblies and conduct validation testing, ensuring compliance. Engineering Change: Lead and implement engineering changes, supporting product introduction. Fault Investigation: Diagnose and resolve issues in electronic assemblies. Document Control: Maintain accurate, organised project records and communicate outputs effectively. Qualifications & Skills: Degree in Electronics or Mechatronics.
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Workshop Fabricator / Welder
£22 - 24 per hour
Manchester
** Workshop Fabricator / Welder ** Location: Manchester 3-6-month initial contract £22.00p/h - £24.00p/h DOE Ltd Co. (outside IR35) or CIS Structural/Process plant/Stainless Steel/TIG/MIG Business Overview: Our client is a leading UK Engineering, projects, and installations company, managing large EPC projects for major blue chip FMCG manufacturers UK wide. They are recruiting for an experienced Fabricator / Welder, for an initial 3-month contract, with the likelihood of extension. The Role of Workshop Fabricator / Welder includes: Read and work from technical engineering drawings Prepping jobs up Working on stainless steel & Mild steel for process plant and structural framework Tacking and welding up pipe supports, structural beams, stairways, platforms & gantries etc, as well as machinery guarding, ducting, hoppers, chutes and conveyors Bending / cutting / grinding – using saws and presses etc A high standard of TIG & MIG welding required Working to required safety rules and standards required Occasional site support for installations The successful Workshop Fabricator / Welder will need the following attributes: Time served Fabricator/Welder to Level 3 NVQ / Apprenticeship Food/Beverage/Pharma /Chemical process industry experience highly preferable Highly experienced in TIG & MIG welding Proven track record of similar roles & experience Pro-active, driven, Team payer, organised Interview and weld test required Benefits: Long term / repeat contract work 60 hrs a week available with OT at weekends State of the art workshop engineering environment Outside IR35 Ltd co. / CIS suitable Working for a UK leading engineering projects and installations company Varied and interesting work I am looking to speak to talented Fabricator Welders, who are looking for a rewarding and challenging technical position. For more information on this please contact Luke Corr – Recruitment Manager at ATA Recruitment. ATA Recruitment specialises in Manufacturing, Infrastructure, Civil, Transportation and General Engineering recruitment on both a permanent and contract basis – for more opportunities like this one, visit our website - By applying you accept the terms of our Privacy Notice which can be found on our website. ATA is committed to creating a diverse workforce and is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation
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Mechanical Design Engineer
£35000 - 40000 per year - Pension Contribution - 34 Days Holidays - Healthcare Cash Plan - Employee Assistance Program - Exc
Kidderminster
Mechanical Design Engineer £35,000 - £40,000 Pension Contribution 34 Days Holidays Healthcare Cash Plan Employee Assistance Program Excellent Training Realistic Progression Opportunities Reference: BP 185 Location: Kidderminster ATA Recruitment are working closely with UK’s largest design and manufacturer of automation equipment, for over 60 years our client has been providing state of the art technological solutions for a wide range of sectors such as Retail, Post & Parcel, Manufacturing, Distribution, and Airports. Turning over £27 million and employing over 120 staff at their 150,000 sq. ft site in Kidderminster they are looking to add a dynamic Mechanical Design Engineer to their experienced and successful design department. As s Mechanical Design Engineer, you will have the opportunity to work closely with industry experts on exciting projects, product development, and prototyping. This will be an excellent role for Mechanical Design Engineer with 2-3 years’+ experience and is looking to develop their career with a well-established business. The Role: As a Mechanical Design Engineer, you will play a crucial part producing the best design solutions for new and ongoing projects using AutoCAD and Solid Works. Some of the duties of a Mechanical Design Engineer will be to: Produce 3D modelling for components and assemblies. Produce 2D drawings for manufacturing and assembling products. Be involved in prototyping manufacturing and testing. Carry out engineering calculations. Prepare product manuals with technical details. Attend client sites when required. The Candidate: The ideal Mechanical Design Engineer will have a passion for design and engineering, attention to detail, and the ability to work well in a team and as an individual. To be successful in your application for the Mechanical Design Engineer role you will need: CAD software experience in both 2D and 3D. Enthusiasm and passion for engineering. Eagerness to learn and adapt. A mechanical engineering qualification. The Benefits For the Mechanical Design Engineer role, you will receive: £35,000 - £40,000 Pension Contribution 34 Days Holidays Healthcare Cash Plan Employee Assistance Program Excellent Training Realistic Progression Opportunities As ATA Recruitment are working closely with this client, we will be conducting a short list starting today, we will conduct the 1st interview over the phone and the successful candidates will then be forwarded to our client with our recommendation. If you wish to be considered for this opportunity then please respond with your intention as we are looking to fill this role in the coming few weeks, you will then be contacting by one of our Recruitment Consultant who will be able to provide more details. Contact: Bhav Patel Recruitment Consultant 07704543752 Bhavesh.patel@ata-recruitment.co.uk ATA Recruitment specialises in Manufacturing, Infrastructure, Civil, Transportation and general Engineering recruitment on both a permanent and contract basis – for more opportunities like this one, visit our website. By applying you accept the terms of our Privacy Notice which can be found on our website. ATA Search specialises in Manufacturing, Infrastructure, Civil, Transportation and General Engineering recruitment on both a permanent and contract basis – for more opportunities like this one, visit our website. By applying you accept the terms of our Privacy Notice which can be found on our website. ATA is committed to creating a diverse workforce and is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation
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Field Service Engineer
£40000 - 45000 per year 20% Bonus + Great Pension Scheme
Bradford
Field Service Engineer Based in Yorkshire – working from home £40K - £45K + Car + 20% Bonus + 33 days holiday + Double Matched Pension The Company: My client is a global market leader within a specialist process industry. This arm of the business design and manufacture chemical dosing systems to large manufacturing business throughout the UK. They have created a new position within their after sales department to add more value to their customers in the shape of a field service engineer. The Role: The field service engineer will be performing a wide range of activities from day to day, including: Electrical and mechanical service and repair of industrial machinery The equipment includes control panels, invertors, drives, relays, PLC's, safety circuits Mechanically you will be working on pumps, valves, pipework. Support with installation and commissioning of machinery and equipment on customers sites Organising and planning of spare parts for services and upgrades Required Experience: The field service engineer will be qualified to NVQ 3 in electrical as a minimum You could be a service engineer/maintenance engineer or commissioning engineer looking for a new role They are open on industry You must be flexible to travel and work away from home during the week Benefits: Massive company Autonomous role with progression opportunities Excellent package including contributory pension, large bonus, company car Interviews can be arranged immediately so apply by following the online instructions or send a CV to max.carling@ata-recruitment.co.uk ATA Recruitment specialises in Manufacturing, Infrastructure, Civil, Transportation and general Engineering recruitment on both a permanent and contract basis – for more opportunities like this one, visit our website. By applying you accept the terms of our Privacy Notice which can be found on our website. ATA is committed to creating a diverse workforce and is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation
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TAILORED recruitment SOLUTIONS
As part of our vision to bridge the skills gap through world-class recruitment and attraction methodologies, we provide a flexible, tailored workforce solution to meet the needs of businesses of any size. From ad-hoc permanent placements to high-volume temporary solutions and sensitive business-critical hires, ATA can help. For more information on our specific engineering recruitment services, click on the icons below.
latest MARKET Insights
Why Employers Should Prioritise AI Training to Aid Workforce Retention & Development
Why Employers Should Prioritise AI Training to Aid Workforce Retention & DevelopmentA recent study by Corndel highlights a growing challenge: one-third of UK employees feel unprepared to use AI in their jobs within the next one to three years. Despite the widespread availability of AI training programmes, many employees remain untrained, creating a skills gap that employers must address.Key Findings:33% of employees feel unprepared for AI integration at work.97% of HR leaders claim AI training is available, but only 39% of employees report receiving it.54% of businesses lack an official AI strategy, according to Microsoft.Many organisations remain in the "experimentation phase" of AI adoption, with limited full-scale implementation.What This Means for Employers:Bridging the AI skills gap is critical – Employees need structured, role-specific training to feel confident using AI tools.Clear AI strategies and training programmes can improve retention – Workers who feel supported in their professional development are more likely to stay.AI education fosters internal career growth – Upskilling employees can help businesses develop talent from within, reducing the need for external hires.Open communication is essential – Encouraging employee feedback on AI implementation ensures better adoption and engagement.Companies that fail to act risk falling behind – AI is rapidly transforming industries, and organisations that do not invest in training may struggle with workforce inefficiencies.Why Invest in AI Training Now?Stronger workforce retention – Employees value employers who invest in their development.Increased productivity – Teams equipped with AI knowledge can work more efficiently.Competitive advantage – Businesses that embrace AI training will stay ahead in a fast-changing market.Cost savings – Developing internal talent reduces the need for expensive external recruitment. Ensure There Are No Training & Development Gaps in Your WorkforceAI is transforming the workplace, and businesses that fail to prioritise training risk falling behind. Ensuring employees are equipped with the right skills is essential for retention, productivity, and long-term success.At ATA Search, we understand the challenges leaders face in bridging the skills gap. By implementing clear training strategies and fostering a culture of continuous learning, managers can future-proof their teams and drive business growth.Is your workforce prepared for AI integration? Take action now to close skills gaps and invest in structured training programmes that empower your employees. Contact ATA Search to explore strategies that ensure your team is ready for the future.Reach out to us today by filling out the form below.
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The RTC Group Awards 2024
The RTC Group Awards 2024On Friday 7th March 2025, we held our annual RTC Group Awards, rewarding those who have gone above and beyond throughout 2024.Held at our headquarters, the Derby Conference Centre, we gathered for a night of celebration and reflection as we looked back on the past twelve months and all that the group has achieved across the various industries we support.We were joined by employees from each of the group’s offices from across the country and overseas, welcoming the teams from RTC Group Plc, Ganymede Solutions, ATA Recruitment, Global Staffing Solutions and The Derby Conference Centre.Ganymede and ATA AwardsThe evening began with the Ganymede and ATA Awards, where we awarded the top performing individuals across the recruitment businesses as well as those who have personified our core values over the last twelve months.Congratulations to the winners of the Ganymede and ATA Awards:150k Club: Brad Minns, Karla Delczeg, Natasha Higgins, Michael Anderson, Luke Corr, Mark Hibbert, Sam WalleyPeople are our Passion: Ashton KenneySocially Responsible: Lauren BradfordTop Newcomers: Zac Polnyj & Charlie CorbettTop Team Performance: Energy (1st Place), Rail - Scotland Office(2nd Place), Rail - Kent Office (3rd Place)Delivering Excellence: Brodie KnightSafety First, Safety Always: Victoria RichardsTaking Pride: Lina OprisnykTop 10 Individual Billers: Jon Caruso, Andy Crewe (Top Perm Biller), Tyler Cook, Hassan Choudhry, Will Heath, Tom Cleverley, Dave Carter, Colin Earp, Michael Dobson, Katie Townend (Top Contract Biller & Top Overall GP)Paul Crompton, Managing Director said: "It was a pleasure to spend the evening with colleagues from across the company. Congratulations to all the award winners on their well-deserved recognition. Your hard work and commitment, both individually and as part of your teams, have been key to our success in 2024, and I look forward to building on these achievements in the year ahead."The RTC Group AwardsThe evening continued with the Group Chairman & CEO address, three course meal and RTC Group Award, presenting for the first year the Douie Award.Douie Award: Katie TownendThank you to all those who attended this event, and for making the evening a resounding success. The RTC Group Awards will return in 2026.
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Annual Maintenance Insights Report 2024
ATA Recruitment's Annual Maintenance Insights Report 2024 is available to downloadA comprehensive report of average Maintenance Engineering salaries, market trends and candidate behaviour across the UK in 2024, compiled using real ATA Recruitment data.ATA Recruitment pride ourselves on providing service with real added value, and as part this we like to share our market intelligence and insights with our customers. You may have already seen our permanent insight report for 2024. You can view it here. In addition, we provide a more granular Maintenance survey as it constitutes such a large proportion of what we do.The data we have collected has come from a large cross-section of the market for both SMEs and large blue chips in industries such as Food, Automated Distribution, Construction Materials, FMCG, and General Manufacturing.Download ATA Recruitment's Annual Regional Maintenance Insights Report 2024By submitting the above form, you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy.Get in touchAs always, we hope the report provides you with the insight as to where your business currently sits in the market, as well as giving you some guidance on how to construct your talent strategy for 2025. If you have any questions or comments on any of the information covered in the report, please do not hesitate to get in touch.By submitting the above form, you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy.
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Recruitment and Retention Survey 2024
Recruitment and Retention Survey 2024To keep our clients informed on industry trends, ATA Search conducted an in-depth Employers Survey, leveraging our extensive network to explore the key drivers of recruitment and retention in 2024. The survey provided valuable insights into hiring trends and the outlook for 2025.As highlighted in our Business Confidence article, recruitment and retention were identified as significant business challenges, with 23% of respondents pointing to recruitment and 13% highlighting staff retention as key concerns in 2024. As such, we are providing you with a more detailed breakdown of the key elements driving the opportunities and challenges surrounding the demand for talent.As we approach the second quarter of 2025, recruitment remains high on the agenda, with businesses needing to expand their teams and maintain their hiring plans despite new employment regulations affecting the cost of permanent recruitment. However, our survey highlighted that the upcoming changes have not have as large a negative impact as was expected:59% of participants stated that National Insurance contributions would not affect their hiring plans in 2025. 66% said that the increase in the National Living/Minimum Wage would not impact their recruitment plans for the upcoming year. What were your hiring patterns throughout 2024?The survey showed the biggest increase in permanent staff, indicating that employers want to focus on upskilling and investment in permanent employees.IncreasedMaintainedDecreasedPermanent Staff41.5%39%19.5%Contract / Interim Staff24.4%41.5%34.1%Executive / Leadership Staff17.1%63.2%19.5%What roles have been the most challenging to fill throughout 2024? Three main roles emerged as the most challenging to fill: manufacturing and production, maintenance, and leadership.Manufacturing & Production29%Maintenance27%Leadership22%Unskilled5%Controls5%Quality & Continuous Improvement5%Design & Projects2%Technical Sales2%Other2%What do you think impacted your ability to retain employees in 2024?The results from our survey indicated a score of 2.93 out of 4 regarding participants' ability to retain their employees in 2024. The main drivers of this are highlighted below, with salary demands taking the top spot.High salary expectations25%Attracting the right calibre of candidates 20%Lack of progression / development opportunities13%Management / Leadership Skills10%Training9%Competition9%Onboarding6%Agile working demands that we are unable to offer6%Other3%What do you think impacted your ability to attract employees in 2024?Employers rated 2.59 out of 4 on their ability to attract new employees into the business, with salary expectations once again proving the most difficult demand from potential employees.High salary expectations29%Candidate Availability 18%Competition17%Fringe benefits10%Agile working demands we are unable to offer9%Lack of progression / development opportunities 5%Industry5%Training4%Other3%Have you explored any new approaches to your recruitment strategy in order to bridge the current skills gap?Our survey highlights how employers are focusing on upskilling their workforce to help bridge the gap.Upskilling existing employees45%Utilise apprenticeships schemes 26%No new approach16%Employ forces leavers5%Sponsor overseas candidates5%Other3%What are your hiring intention in 2025?2025 looks set to be a busy year, with a particularly high demand for permanent staff.IncreasedMaintainedDecreasedPermanent Staff39%53.7%7.3%Contract / Interim Staff9.8%63.4%26.8%Executive / Leadership Staff17.1%73.2%9.8%What does this mean for businesses?Upskilling the workforceCompanies are prioritising the development and training of long-term employees, with 45% keen to invest in upskilling their workforce to promote career longevity within their organisations. It is reported that by 2030, around 90% of the UK’s existing workforce will need to upskill to meet evolving requirements. This means that providing a continuously developing workforce puts you ahead of companies that are unwilling to invest in their employees. Employing and retaining the right people20% of people interviewed stated that the ability to retain employees in 2024 was due to attracting the right calibre of candidates. A mismatch between the candidate and the job often leads to people leaving roles, resulting in businesses having to deal with staff shortages. To combat this, it’s important to have an in-depth interview and selection process, ensuring the business is right for the candidate and that the job is right for the individual.If your company needs help finding the right talent, ATA is passionate about recruitment and ensuring candidates are pre-screened, with their abilities and personal characteristics thoroughly assessed. We are committed to minimising the risk of hiring the wrong person for the job.Get in touchIf you’re interested in the findings of this survey and would like to discuss how these trends could impact your business, we’d love to help. Our expertise in Bridging The Skills Gap ensures you have the right talent in place for a successful year ahead. In the coming weeks, we’ll also be releasing our annual Engineering Insights Report, featuring data from all the placements we’ve made throughout 2024. This comprehensive report, combined with feedback from candidates on their employment plans, reinforces our knowledge and expertise and helps you tackle the ongoing challenge of staff retention with confidence. To find out more, contact Chris Addison, Director of ATA Search, at 07787 289 367 or christian.addison@ata-search.co.uk, or simply complete the form below.
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Annual Engineering Insights 2024
The 8th edition of ATA Recruitment's Annual Engineering Insights is available to downloadWe are excited to share the 8th edition of ATA Recruitment’s Annual Engineering Insights Report with you. This data has been compiled from the placements we made in 2024, providing a real-time overview of the average salaries offered across the UK.In addition, the report offers detailed market insights and explores the shifts in candidate behaviour that are driving these changes. We have also included salary trends from the past seven years for further context, helping to illustrate how the market has evolved over time.Covering the following disciplines, we have answered some of the most common questions we get asked, as well as providing you with the quantitative data from salary trends:Maintenance & ServiceQuality & ManufacturingDesign & ProjectsMid ManagementExecutiveThis data has been generated from the placements we made in 2023, along with various industry survey findings. We trust this will give you a real time overview of the recruitment landscape and average salaries offered across the UK.Download the reportGet in touchAs always, we hope the report provides you with the insight as to where your business currently sits in the market, as well as giving you some guidance on how to construct your talent strategy for 2025. If you have any questions or comments on any of the information covered in the report, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
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Business Confidence Survey 2024
Business Confidence Survey 2024To keep our clients informed on industry trends, ATA Search tapped into our extensive network with an in-depth Employers Survey. The survey explored the key drivers of business success in 2024 and provided valuable insights into business confidence for 2025.2024 proved to be a challenging year for the UK economy, growing by just 0.4% over quarters 1–3 (according to ONS data). Despite this growth being below initial projections, it was positive to see that 39% of respondents in our survey reported either strong or very strong growth.Despite minimal growth being projected for Q4, the pending National Insurance, Minimum and Real Living Wage increases, and the ongoing economic uncertainty, the outlook of those surveyed across UK manufacturing remains positive. With an average confidence rating of 2.88 out of 4 for their outlook in 2025, many participants are hopeful for a stronger year ahead.39% of those surveyed said they experienced growth or strong growth in 2024.Recruitment (23%) and retention (13%) of staff were key challenges in 2024.51% of those surveyed said they are predicting strong growth in 2025.What industry best describes the participants field?General Engineering20%Automotive7%Aerospace10%Special Purpose Machinery15%Food10%Construction Materials Manufacturing7%Warehouse Automation5%FMCG10%Process Engineering7%Other10% What levels of growth did businesses experience in 2024? Strong/Very Strong39%No growth54%Moderately Negative5%Very Negative2%What have been the biggest business challenges in 2024? Cost Control (energy, material, salaries) 23%Recruitment23%Employee Retention18%Customer Demand23%Competition 3%Availability of management skills8%Other3%What are the key drivers impacting confidence levels?Demand for our products/services30%Economic situation 20% Investment11%Sector Investment8%Profitability / Rising Costs10%Recruitment6%Retention of staff14% What levels of growth are business owners expecting in 2025? Very Strong7%Strong51%No growth37%Moderately Negative2.5%Very Negative2.5%What does this mean for businesses? Managing costs Three primary challenges that hindered businesses growth in 2024 were cost control (including energy, materials, and salaries), recruitment, and customer demand. All these factors are closely linked to financial sustainability. From managing production costs and securing the right talent to meeting market demand, each aspect plays a crucial role in overall business success.Meeting demand 2025 is shaping up to be a strong year for business, with confidence at a high. Over half (51%) of business owners anticipate a strong year, while an additional 7% expect it to be very strong. This optimism suggests that we are turning a corner, driven primarily by increasing demand for products and services. With 2025 set to be a busy year, success will depend on strategic cost control and securing the right talent to drive growth. Ensuring your team is equipped to capitalise on opportunities will be key to making the most of this positive momentum.Get in touch If you’re interested in the findings of this survey and would like to discuss how these trends could impact your business, we’d love to help. Our expertise in Bridging The Skills Gap ensures you have the right talent in place for a successful year ahead.We're looking forward to launching our second employer survey, focusing on recruitment and retention, to provide deeper insights that help you build and maintain a strong workforce.In the coming weeks, we’ll also be releasing our annual Engineering Insights Report, featuring data from all the placements we’ve made throughout 2024. This comprehensive report, combined with feedback from candidates on their employment plans, reinforces our knowledge and expertise and helps you tackle the ongoing challenge of staff retention with confidence.To find out more, contact Chris Addison, Director of ATA Search, at 07787 289 367 orchristian.addison@ata-search.co.uk, or simply complete the form below.
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Using Psychometric Tools to Better Engage Your Teams in 2025
Using Psychometric Tools to Better Engage Your Teams in 2025According to ATA Recruitment’s recent survey, in 2024, 25% of Engineers left their roles due to poor management and not feeling valued. As we step into 2025, this highlights a crucial truth for managers and senior leaders: employees need to feel understood and appreciated to truly thrive. For managers, psychometric assessments offer a powerful tool to create a workplace where employees feel valued, engaged, and motivated. They go beyond CVs and performance evaluations—they provide meaningful insights into an individual’s strengths, personality traits, and working preferences. By leveraging these tools, managers can develop tailored strategies to engage and retain top talent.How Psychometric Assessments Help Employees Feel Valued1) Recognising Individual Strengths: Psychometric assessments help identify what makes each employee unique. By aligning roles, responsibilities, and development opportunities to these strengths, employees feel recognised and appreciated for their individual contributions.2) Facilitating Better Communication: Understanding an employee’s communication style enables managers to interact more effectively, reducing misunderstandings and fostering stronger relationships.3) Supporting Career Development: Insights from assessments can guide meaningful career development conversations, demonstrating that an organisation is invested in its employees' growth and future.4) Building Trust: Using psychometric assessments to create a fair and transparent workplace culture fosters trust and confidence, making employees feel valued as both individuals and professionals.A Workforce-First ApproachWhen employees feel understood and supported, they are not just more likely to stay—they are more likely to perform at their highest potential. For managers in 2025, incorporating tools like psychometric assessments is no longer optional; it is essential for cultivating a thriving workforce.At ATA Search, we do more than connect organisations with top talent; we help them retain it. Through our unique product offering, Team Evaluation Assessments, we enable leaders to better understand, engage, and value their most important asset—their people.Ready to put your workforce first? Reach out to us today by filling out the form below.
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