General Engineering
Specialist General Engineering RecruitmentATA Recruitment is a leading engineering recruitment company in the UK, specialising in sourcing high-calibre professionals for general engineering roles...
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Specialist General Engineering RecruitmentATA Recruitment is a leading engineering recruitment company in the UK, specialising in sourcing high-calibre professionals for general engineering roles...
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Special Purpose Machinery Recruitment ExpertsATA Recruitment is a specialist in design and projects recruitment for the special purpose machinery sector. We understand the bespoke nature of this i...
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Expert Engineering Recruiter for the Process Engineering IndustryAt ATA Recruitment, we are proud to be a specialist engineering recruiter for the UK's process engineering sector. With nearly two d...
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Leading Automotive RecruitmentATA Recruitment is a trusted and experienced automotive recruitment company delivering high-performing engineering and technical talent into the heart of the UK aut...
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Specialist Aerospace Recruiter for Engineering TalentATA Recruitment is a trusted aerospace recruiter with proven expertise in sourcing top engineering talent for one of the UK's most complex and ...
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Specialist Food Manufacturing RecruitmentATA Recruitment is a leading food manufacturing recruitment agency with decades of experience supporting the UK's most dynamic and demanding FMCG environme...
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Warehouse Automation Recruitment SpecialistsAs the warehouse automation sector has rapidly evolved, ATA Recruitment has grown alongside it - developing strong partnerships with both OEMs and many ...
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Construction Materials Manufacturing RecruitmentATA Recruitment is a specialist recruitment partner for the construction materials manufacturing sector. For over a decade, we’ve supported leading ...
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Transitioning Military Skills into Civilian CareersMilitary service instils a range of transferable skills, including leadership, discipline, problem-solving, and technical proficiency. At ATA Re...
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Electrical Fitter Based in Birmingham Monday-Friday – Day Shifts – 48 to 50 Hours per week Outside IR35 £22ph This leading manufacturer of process equipment is currently on a rapid growth phase and is winning a variety of new projects. Following successful contracts, the company is now looking for an Electrical Fitter to join the team. If you are looking for a new contract, then please contact Adil Shaikh on 07920 410 329 or email adil.shaikh@ata-recruitment.co.uk The day-to-day responsibilities of the Installation Electrician will include the following: Fitting containment Machine wiring, labelling, and terminating Building components from schematic drawings Installing conduit and routing field cables IO checking and pneumatic piping (light involvement) Working with 24V control systems, HMIs, PLCs, barcodes, scanners, remote I/O The Installation Electrician must possess the following skills & experience: Previous electrical installation experience within a Manufacturing/FMCG environment. Panel modification and machine wiring experience Installation and electrical wiring qualification 18th Edition qualification or equivalent The benefits of this position: Established 3-month rolling contract. Monday to Friday Day shifts 40 to 50 hours per week Outside IR35 – Ltd Company Contract To be considered for this role please either hit the 'Apply' button on this site or email your CV directly to adil.shaikh@ata-recruitment.co.uk I can also be contacted directly on 07920410329. I look forward to hearing from you! ATA Recruitment specialise in the recruitment of Engineers across the UK, so if this role is not for you, please do have a look on our website for further potential opportunities which may suit your skills and experience better - If you have the skill, we have the recruitment knowledge and together we can find you your perfect job! - You must be eligible to live and work within the UK. Sponsorship is not provided. 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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Role: Maintenance Engineer (x3) Shift: Monday to Friday days Salary: Up to £45,000 (O.T. 1.5 + 2.0) Location: Harlow The Company Would you like O.T. paid at 2.0 to maximise your earnings? Would you like to establish yourself as part of a growing maintenance function? Our client is a key player who manufacture specialist component links. They supply their services to the biggest customers and industries worldwide across power, hydraulics, offshore etc. With the backing of a large conglomerate, they are consistently investing in brand-new equipment, machinery and Continuous Improvement projects for you to get working on. They are looking for another motivated Maintenance Engineer to get started and make an impression to unlock future development! The Role As a Maintenance Engineer, your responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Working mechanically on hydraulics, pneumatics, chain drives, gearboxes, bearings etc. Marginally handling electrical equipment such as control panels, three phase motors etc. Working on conveyors, rotating machinery, carousels, hydraulic drums etc. Operating as a team to confidently perform reactive and planned maintenance Fabricating and Welding About You The ideal Maintenance Engineer will have the following: A recognised engineering qualification Experience with, or a flexible mindset for, working effectively within a team An open attitude to working in any type of industry A sound understanding of key electrical components Company Benefits The company also discloses numerous benefits for the role of Maintenance Engineer which include: Private healthcare A healthy company pension contribution 33 shifts of holiday allowance Room for progression – opportunities to progress for the right candidate A strong budget dedicated solely for personalised on-site training, applied from your very first day Death in service 3x annual salary 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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Role – Maintenance Engineer Package - £52,500 Location – Mansfield Shift Pattern – 4 on 4 off (Days and Nights) Benefit – 5% Contribution pension The Company ATA Recruitment are proud to be working with a client who are continuously growing their company, reaching various markets across different industries in over 20 countries. They are looking for team-centric and ambitious maintenance engineer to join their ranks. This company has a turnover of billions, meaning that you will not have to worry about job stability/security as you advance your career. Progression here comes in many forms, including structured upskilling, management positions, senior engineer positions if you are interested in being a specialist, and much more. With an engineering team of 60, there are many opportunities for you to move into the right role for you. The site in Mansfield is one of the largest of its kind, costing over £250 million upfront and with much more being invested in since its opening. This company and site listen to their employees and are always finding ways to improve their time with the company. Since opening, this site has seen many quality-of-life changes including Salary, Benefits, Training and Upskilling methods/processes, Progression plans, and Engineering practises (e.g. electronic tablets being provided). This company will listen and invest back into you and your team. The Role As a Maintenance Engineer you will help and support the running of all of the automated equipment on site including - Autostores, Various conveyor systems, shuttle systems, Packaging equipment’s, carton erectors, Auto baggers, crossbelt sorters. The planned and reactive maintenance and service of all equipment on site Working as part of a huge on-site maintenance engineering team of over 60 engineers. Looking for area of CI opportunity to get optimum performance of all machinery Mechanically you will mainly be replacing worn out parts on the conveyors which will include rollers, bearings and pulleys. Electrical work will include reading through electrical schematics, utilizing electrical test equipment such as multi-meters and fault finding on panels. Mainly swapping both electrical and mechanical components like for like with the odd strip and rebuild project, About you The right maintenance engineer will have: Has a recognised engineering qualification Strong communication skills and enjoys working alongside other engineers Be able to react to breakdowns fast – the business depends on you Confident while fault finding The Package and Benefits As a Maintenance Engineer you will receive: An annual salary of £52,500 Pension Contribution Discounted on site gym membership Online Learning content with unlimited access Refer a friend scheme and employee of the month which is DOUBLE monthly salary Are you a maintenance engineer who is ready to join a supportive company, where you can become the best engineer that you can be with state-of-the-art equipment? If yes, then press apply or send your CV to zac.polnyj@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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Electrical Maintenance Engineer £52,500-+ Annual Bonus (2K) + Double Match Pension (IF YOU put 5% they put 10%) Overtime Readily Available – OTE £55,000-£60,000 FANTASTIC Training + Progression Opportunities 4 on 4 off (DAYS and NIGHTS) The Company: We are working with a prestigious client — a multisite business with over 80 years of UK experiences supplying to the construction sector. Operating a state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Leicestershire, this company offers long-term job security, an outstanding reputation, and nationwide success. The engineering department is known for its supportive culture, robust training programs, and clear career progression paths. They are currently looking to strengthen their engineering team by welcoming a electrical maintenance engineer. The Role: As a Electrical Maintenance Engineer, your responsibilities will include: Reactive Maintenance Planned Preventive Maintenance electrical fault finding and troubleshooting Working on electrical systems including inverter drives, 3 phase motors, VSD, contactors and PLC Candidate Requirements: Our ideal Electrical Maintenance Engineer will have: A Level 3 qualification in electrical Engineering (or similar) Proven experience working in a manufacturing or industrial environment Willingness to work shifts (4 on 4 off – Days & Nights) Strong team player with a positive, problem-solving attitude Benefits: Highly competitive base salary with annual reviews Annual bonus paid every year Double-match pension scheme (up to 15%) Access to a generous training budget — further qualifications and skill development are actively encouraged Clear progression paths to leadership and senior roles Friendly, inclusive team culture and a clean, modern working environment Interested? If you're ready for a fresh challenge and want to join a secure and forward-thinking company, get in touch! Call AJ on 07701326339 Email your CV to aj.kermaleki@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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Mechanical Maintenance Engineer £50,000-+ Annual Bonus (2K) + Double Match Pension (IF YOU put 5% they put 10%) Overtime Readily Available – OTE £55,000-£60,000 FANTASTIC Training + Progression Opportunities 4 on 4 off (DAYS and NIGHTS) The Company: We are working with a prestigious client — a multisite business with over 80 years of UK experiences supplying to the construction sector. Operating a state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Leicestershire, this company offers long-term job security, an outstanding reputation, and nationwide success. The engineering department is known for its supportive culture, robust training programs, and clear career progression paths. They are currently looking to strengthen their engineering team by welcoming a mechanical maintenance engineer. The Role: As a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer, your responsibilities will include: Reactive Maintenance Planned Preventive Maintenance Mechanical fault finding and troubleshooting Working on mechanical systems such as conveyors, motors, gearboxes, and pumps Repair and overhaul of hydraulic and pneumatic systems Occasional work involving control systems and minor electrical understanding Candidate Requirements: Our ideal Mechanical Maintenance Engineer will have: A Level 3 qualification in Mechanical Engineering (or similar) Proven experience working in a manufacturing or industrial environment Willingness to work shifts (4 on 4 off – Days & Nights) Strong team player with a positive, problem-solving attitude Benefits: Highly competitive base salary with annual reviews Annual bonus paid every year Double-match pension scheme (up to 15%) Access to a generous training budget — further qualifications and skill development are actively encouraged Clear progression paths to leadership and senior roles Friendly, inclusive team culture and a clean, modern working environment Interested? If you're ready for a fresh challenge and want to join a secure and forward-thinking company, get in touch! Call AJ on 07701326339 Email your CV to aj.kermaleki@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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Structural Engineer West Yorkshire (hybrid / remote working) Initial 9-month contract £42.50 - 45.00p/h DOE (outside IR35) STAAD Pro / ProSteel I am working with my client based in West Yorkshire who require a Structural Engineer to support a critical phase of project delivery. They have an initial requirement of a contractor for a 9-month period with workload spanning further. For the position of Structural Engineer, you will be required to conduct the following duties: • Analyse steel structures including stacks, pipe bridges, and supporting platforms • Develop connection designs to Eurocode 3 and ISO 1990–1999 standards • Use STAAD Pro and ProSteel for analysis and modelling • Produce hand calcs and contribute to technical reports • Coordinate with the design team and stress engineers to resolve issues • Support FEA analysis and concept modelling where required The successful Structural Engineer will need to have the following attributes: • Degree qualified in Civil or Structural Engineering (Master’s preferred) • Proficient in STAAD Pro and ProSteel – essential • Familiar with Eurocodes, especially EN 1993 (Eurocode 3) • Confident with hand calculations and technical coordination • Comfortable working under pressure with tight deadlines – shutdown experience The benefits of this position: • Outside IR35 • Immediate start • Long hours and overtime potential available 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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️ Engineering Team Leader – Hands-On Leadership Role Salary: £50,000 + Overtime + Excellent Benefits Location: Rotherham Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00am – 4:00pm (Days Only) Looking to step up into leadership or bring your existing skills to a thriving, fast-paced environment? We’re recruiting for an Engineering Team Leader to join a successful and rapidly growing FMCG manufacturer. This is an ideal opportunity for a driven engineer ready to take on a blend of hands-on technical support and day-to-day leadership. As the Engineering Team Leader, you'll oversee a small team of skilled engineers while remaining technically involved. You’ll lead from the front, manage shift handovers, support continuous improvement projects, and help shape the future of the maintenance function. ✅ What Makes This Engineering Team Leader Role Stand Out: No nights, no weekends – straight days shift Excellent salary + overtime available Leadership with continued technical involvement Be part of a modern site with significant investment and growth plans Key Responsibilities: Lead, mentor, and support a small team of maintenance engineers Drive performance, reliability, and efficiency Manage workload distribution, shift handovers, and communication Support root cause analysis and engineering improvements What You’ll Need: NVQ Level 3 or equivalent in an engineering discipline Proven experience in FMCG or a similar manufacturing environment Strong technical ability in either mechanical or electrical maintenance Previous leadership or mentoring experience (or readiness to step up) What’s On Offer: £50,000 base salary Monday to Friday, 8:00am – 4:00pm Overtime opportunities Excellent benefits package Long-term progression and development support Ready to lead? Contact Max Carling at max.carling@ata-recruitment.co.uk for more information or to apply directly. 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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Role: Maintenance Engineer Shifts: 4 on 4 off days only Location: Hayes Salary: £50,000 + Bonus Benefits: Days Only + Time in Lieu + Training + Progression Opportunities + Bonus The Business: Our Client are a market leading FMCG business that have grown considerably in the last 10 years due to consistent investment in the site to upgrade equipment. Due to the growth of the site and growing orderbook, they have had sign off to add an additional shift engineer into the successful team. Just this year they have invested hundreds of thousands into upgrading the automation in areas of the factory and the Engineers meaning that as a Maintenance Engineer you’ll have the chance to work with some of the latest technology on the market, with reliable machinery and the opportunity to work on projects and make some improvements. The Role: The Role of Maintenance Engineer will include the following responsibilities: Proactive approach on improving efficiency of the machinery Working within a team of Engineers creating solutions to problems that come up day to day Working through re-occurring problems/faults to engineer problems out which will in reliability of the machinery. Creating proposals and ideas for improving efficiency, reducing waste, reducing operator error and working on these ideas to completion Having autonomy within the role, as a Maintenance Engineer with these guys you are trusted to get the job done the right way Will support the wider maintenance team on reactive and PPM The Candidate: The Right Candidate for the role of Maintenance Engineer will have the following: A recognised Engineering qualification Experience working as a Maintenance Engineer on production machinery Be confident fault finding Electrically and Mechanically, ensuring all safety is met Be able to come up with ideas for Continuous Improvement Experience working with a PPM system The Benefits Benefits included for a successful applicant to this Maintenance Engineer position include: A Days Only with no nights! 8% Bonus on top of your salary Time in Lieu with any additional hours worked Autonomy to work on projects and create improvements Training opportunities with local colleges or OEMs Opportunities to progress within the business, the company is growing and historically they have promoted from within. 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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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.
IR35 Made Simple: What Engineering Employers Need to Know in 2025Engineering Talent Shortages Are Pushing Employers Toward ContractorsIf you’re finding it difficult to recruit permanent Engineers, you’re not alone. Across the UK, engineering and manufacturing businesses are facing critical skills shortages, from Design and Automation Specialists to Electrical, Mechanical, and Project Engineers.As a result, many companies are turning to contract and interim solutionsto fill urgent gaps, meet project deadlines, and maintain productivity.But for employers new to contract recruitment, or returning after a few years away there’s one major question:How does IR35 affect us if we engage contractors?IR35: What You Need to Know (Without the Jargon)The IR35 off-payroll rules changed in April 2021 for the private sector. That means for the last 4 years, medium and large businesses like yours have had to determine the tax status of any contractor working through a limited company (also called a personal service company or PSC).Here are the key points:You Are ResponsibleIf your business meets two or more of the following:£10.2M+ annual turnover£5.1M+ on your balance sheetMore than 50 employees...then you must assess IR35 status for each contractor engagement.You Must Issue an SDSA Status Determination Statement is a legal requirement. It outlines whether the contractor is “inside” or “outside” IR35, and why.Take “Reasonable Care”HMRC expects you to make fair, well-informed decisions. Blanket assessments or rushed calls put you at risk of tax liability and penalties.IR35 Shouldn’t Stop You From Hiring Great ContractorsIR35 is manageable, with the right partner.At ATA Recruitment we specialise in contract and interim recruitment for engineering and manufacturing businesses. If you're new to IR35 or unsure how to engage contractors correctly, we’re here to make the process smooth, compliant, and low-risk.How We Help You Stay Compliant and ConfidentWe don’t just place contractors, we guide you through the full IR35 journey, including:IR35 education and guidance tailored to your businessAssistance in producing compliant SDS documentationAccess to vetted, IR35-aware contractorsUse of umbrella company options, where appropriateAdvice on contract structure and working practicesAnd it doesn’t stop once the contractor starts.Ongoing Contractor Aftercare = Long-Term ComplianceOur aftercare service ensures you stay compliant throughout the engagement, not just at the start. We’ll:Regularly check in with both you and the contractorFlag any changes that might affect IR35 statusSupport renewal processes and extensionsHelp you remain audit-ready for HMRC inspectionsSolve Your Engineering Resourcing Challenge - Without IR35 HeadachesIf you need skilled Engineers but can’t hire them permanently, contractors could be your best route forward.Let us manage the recruitment and the compliance, so you can focus on results, not red tape.Ready to explore contract solutions?Book your free IR35 & Contractor Strategy Call today Speak with our specialist team on 0116 216 7000 or complete the form below to get started.
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How to Make Management Aspirational Again in Engineering and ManufacturingMore than half of UK employees in middle management roles and below do not see management as an aspirational career path, according to recent research.For engineering and manufacturing companies, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity. As demand for strong leadership increases, now is the time to reshape how management is viewed and make it a genuinely appealing next step for your people.The good news is this: employees are not rejecting leadership entirely. Many are open to it if the right support, guidance and development are in place.Why Some Employees Are Hesitant About the Management Career PathThere are several common reasons professionals hold back from becoming managers:Limited exposure to strong leadership examplesA lack of structured management development supportConcerns about stress or losing work life balanceUncertainty about future growth beyond their first promotionThese concerns are valid, especially in technically focused environments. But they can be addressed. Employers who take a proactive approach can build confidence in leadership and encourage more aspiring managers to step forward.Five Ways Employers Can Inspire Aspiring ManagersHere are five actions employers can take to make the management career path attractive, achievable and rewarding.1. Give Employees Early Exposure to LeadershipIntroduce opportunities to lead projects, mentor colleagues or coordinate teams even before someone becomes a formal manager. These real world experiences help employees build confidence and understand what leadership involves.2. Invest in Targeted Management Development SupportDo not wait until someone is promoted to start training them. Offer practical training that includes communication skills, people management, decision making and problem solving. This is especially important in engineering leadership roles, where technical skills alone are not enough.3. Highlight the Positive Impact of Great ManagersEngineering and manufacturing teams often focus on outputs and performance. Help employees see that effective managers create better work environments, support career growth and directly contribute to long term success. Show the human side of leadership.4. Offer Flexible Career PathwaysCreate separate pathways for technical experts and leadership roles so that becoming a manager feels like a meaningful choice rather than a forced promotion. When employees pursue management out of interest and ambition, everyone benefits.5. Provide Ongoing Support for New ManagersOnce someone becomes a manager, continue supporting them. Regular coaching, leadership peer groups and ongoing development are essential. The first twelve to eighteen months are critical for building confidence and long term effectiveness.Let Us Help You Build Your Leadership PipelineAt ATA Search, we specialise in executive search and leadership strategy for engineering and manufacturing. If you're looking to develop future managers or strengthen your current leadership team, we’re here to help.Through our Team Evaluation Assessments, powered by Thomas International, you'll gain complete clarity on your team's emotional intelligence, behavioural traits and leadership potential. Whether you're hiring or planning ahead, you'll know exactly what your team needs to grow.Build confident leaders. Shape a stronger future.
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Why the Human Factor Still Matters in Leadership RecruitmentAI in Recruitment Is Helpful but Not EnoughRecruitment technology has come a long way. In 2025, we can say that artificial intelligence is commonly utilised within the hiring process. Recruiters often use purpose-built tools that include AI systems to assist with tasks like scanning CVs and identifying key patterns. But when it comes to hiring leaders, especially in engineering and manufacturing, technology cannot do everything. AI can help narrow down a list of candidates, but it cannot judge important qualities like resilience, communication skills, or whether someone will fit well with your company’s way of working.Good Leadership Is About More Than SkillsHiring someone for a senior role is not just about ticking boxes. Leaders in technical industries must guide teams, solve problems, manage change, and think ahead. These are not things that can be measured by a computer.The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 says leadership, emotional intelligence, and problem solving are among the most valuable skills for employers. These are not things AI can fully understand. They require human judgement and experience.Why Personality and Company Fit Still MatterSomeone may look great on their CV but might not work well with your team. Success in leadership often depends on how well someone fits your company culture, how they speak and lead others, and how they handle challenges. These are hard to spot with AI alone.In engineering and manufacturing, the wrong leadership hire can lead to missed deadlines, lower team morale, and costly mistakes. A skilled recruiter can spot small signs during conversations and interviews that a computer might miss.Blending Data with Human JudgementTools like personality tests and skill assessments are helpful. They give clear information about how a person thinks, communicates, and works under pressure. But to understand the full picture, you still need a human expert who can explain what the results mean for your business.Experienced recruiters know what to look for in a leader. They can tell if someone not only has the skills, but also the right attitude and approach to succeed in your company. The best hiring decisions come from using data and human insight together.How ATA Search Helps You Hire Exceptional LeadersATA Search works with engineering and manufacturing businesses to find top leaders who can succeed in demanding technical roles. We use our industry knowledge and tools from Thomas International to understand a person’s behaviour, thinking style, personality, and emotional strengths.If you are looking to hire a Head of Engineering, Plant Director, or Technical Sales Leader, we go beyond the CV. We help you make clear, confident hiring decisions based on more than just experience. Our goal is to help you find leaders who will succeed not just today but in the long term.Ready to find your next great leader?Contact ATA Search today. Let us help you hire with clarity, accuracy, and confidence.Reach out to us today by filling out the form below.
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ATA Recruitment at the CTP Employment Fair: Supporting Forces Leavers and Closing the UK Skills GapWe recently attended the CTP Employment Fair in Lincoln, further strengthening our commitment to supporting ex forces professionals and helping UK manufacturers address the growing engineering skills gap.As demand for technical talent continues to rise across the manufacturing sector, finding skilled, reliable and adaptable individuals has become a top priority for employers. One of the most overlooked talent pools is the Ex-Forces community, highly trained professionals with transferable skills that are directly applicable to engineering and industrial environments. Why ATA Recruitment Attended the CTP Employment FairDirector Chris Addison and Recruitment Specialist Lewis Gardner represented ATA Recruitment at the event. It was an important opportunity to engage directly with service leavers and learn more about their aspirations as they transition into civilian careers.Chris Addison shared:"Our mission at ATA Recruitment is to help bridge the growing skills gap in UK manufacturing. As part of this plan, we are encouraging our customers to recruit from outside of their current marketplace. Taking on forces leavers is a fantastic option. As the number of our customers willing to do so continues to grow, we made the decision to attend the CTP event in Lincoln. We met so many great forces Engineers with strong qualifications and excellent transferable skills, many of which we will be passing on to the relevant customers."Recognising the Value of Ex Forces TalentThe event provided a chance to meet a range of former service personnel, individuals who possess not only technical expertise but also qualities such as resilience, discipline and leadership. These attributes are highly sought after across sectors including General Engineering, Automotive, Aerospace, Food and FMCG, Warehouse Automation and Special Purpose Machinery.Lewis Gardner commented:"Meeting so many talented individuals who have served in the Armed Forces was a privilege. The technical skills and mindset they bring can add real value to businesses across the UK."A Long Term Vision for Forces RecruitmentMilitary service develops a skillset that is perfectly aligned with the needs of UK industry, from problem solving and process discipline to hands on engineering capability. At ATA Recruitment, we aim to act as the bridge between forces leavers and employers who can benefit from their experience.We provide personalised support to help service leavers identify roles that match their skills and career goals, while also educating clients on the benefits of hiring from this talent pool. The result is a more diverse, skilled and future ready workforce for the sectors that keep the UK economy moving.Let’s Build the Future TogetherIf you are an employer seeking to address long term skills shortages, or a forces leaver preparing for your next career step, ATA Recruitment is here to support you. We are passionate about creating opportunities that benefit both individuals and businesses, and we believe connecting ex forces professionals with industry is a vital part of that vision. Get in touch today by filling out the form below to discover how we can help you strengthen your team or successfully transition into a new career.
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Why Engineers Are in Demand in the UK Food and FMCG Manufacturing SectorsThe food and drink industry is the UK’s largestmanufacturing sector. For Engineers exploring new opportunities, jobs in food and FMCG offer more than just career stability, they offer innovation, impact, and real-world problem-solving at scale. Right now, maintenance engineering opportunities in this sector are especially strong, with employers investing heavily in skilled talent to keep operations efficient, safe, and future-ready. At ATA Recruitment, maintenance engineering is at the core of what we do, we place skilled professionals into key roles with some of the biggest and most respected employers in the UK food industry.Here’s why a career in food or FMCG manufacturing might be the ideal move for ambitious Engineers.1. Cutting-Edge Innovation Every DayThe food and FMCG industries are fast-paced environments where innovation is essential. Maintenance Engineers play a key role in keeping this innovation running smoothly, by ensuring equipment reliability, reducing downtime, and supporting the integration of new technologies. Engineers in these sectors are helping to:Develop automated production lines to improve efficiencyCreate sustainable packaging that reduces environmental impactImprove food safety and shelf-life using advanced processing technologyIn 2024, the UK government has outlined a £2 billion plan using engineering biology to revolutionise food and sustainability efforts, highlighting the demand for engineering talent that can drive progress. 2. Make a Global ImpactFood is a universal need, and UK manufacturers export more than £23 billion in food and drink products annually. Engineers in the sector contribute to:Tackling food security and nutrition challengesSupporting sustainable agriculture and distribution practicesEnsuring the safety and quality of products consumed globallyWhen you work in food or FMCG engineering, you’re not just keeping production lines moving, you’re helping feed the world.3. Work Across Disciplines and Expand Your SkillsetIn food manufacturing, Engineers collaborate with professionals in:Biology and chemistry (for product development and food preservation)Technology and data analytics (for process control and predictive maintenance)Supply chain and logistics (for efficiency improvements)This cross-functional exposure makes Engineer jobs in food and FMCG perfect for those who enjoy learning and adapting.4. Career Stability and Strong DemandThe food industry is essential and that means it's more resistant to economic shifts. It currently employs over 440,000 people in the UK, with engineering talent in high demand. Maintenance Engineers are especially sought after for their ability to keep production environments running efficiently around the clock.According to our Insights Report 2024, typical salaries for Engineers in the sector are:RoleAverage Salary (UK, 2024)Maintenance Engineer£42,000 - £55,000Project Engineer£45,000 - £55,000Process Engineer£40,000 - £52,000Engineering Manager£55,000 - £75,0005. Stay on the Right Side of RegulationFood and drink manufacturing is highly regulated to ensure safety and traceability. Engineers are central to:Designing processes that meet Food Standards Agency requirementsImplementing HACCP and ISO standardsAuditing systems for continuous complianceThis adds a level of rigour and responsibility to engineering roles, ideal for those who thrive under clear frameworks.6. Explore a Variety of Engineering Career PathsThere’s no one-size-fits-all career in FMCG and food engineering. Engineers can specialise in:MaintenanceResearch & Development (R&D)Production and AutomationQuality AssuranceHealth, Safety & Environment (HSE)Supply Chain OptimisationThis diversity allows Engineers to pivot within the industry, gaining experience across different departments and technical challenges.7. Drive the Sustainability AgendaThe food industry is under pressure to reduce environmental impact. Engineers are at the core of:Cutting food wasteImproving energy efficiencyDesigning greener packagingIn 2024, the industry committed to cutting food waste by 20% and slashing energy consumption across production lines. Engineers with sustainability knowledge are in high demand.Ready to Explore Engineer Jobs in Food or FMCG?If you're an Engineer looking to apply your skills in a future-focused, globally relevant, and innovation-driven industry, food and FMCG manufacturing is a strong career move. Maintenance Engineers, in particular, are in high demand to keep production lines efficient, safe, and running smoothly.At ATA Recruitment, we connect Engineers with top employers in the UK’s thriving food and FMCG sectors. Whether you're seeking a permanent, executive, or contract role, we can help you find the right fit.Search our latest Engineer jobs in food and FMCG now, or speak to one of our specialist consultants.
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Navigating Uncertainty: How Contract Recruitment Supports Engineering and Manufacturing BusinessesThe 2025 increase in employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) has created a new layer of financial complexity for UK employers, especially in sectors like engineering and manufacturing, where skilled labour is critical and payroll forms a large part of operational costs. The Financial Pressure of Higher Employer NICsWith the employer NIC rate rising from 13.8% to 15% and the threshold reduced from £9,100 to £5,000, companies face significantly higher costs for permanent hires. For example, employing an Engineer earning the average UK salary of £36,036 now costs businesses an additional £940 per year in NICs, up from £3,715 to £4,655.This sharp increase in employment costs is pushing many businesses to re-evaluate their workforce strategy. Some are slowing down recruitment or even reducing headcount to maintain profitability in an increasingly competitive market.While the Employment Allowance has increased from £5,000 to £10,500, this may offer only limited relief, particularly for larger engineering and manufacturing firms with significant staffing requirements. Contract Recruitment: A Strategic Workforce SolutionIn response to these changes, contract recruitment has become an increasingly valuable strategy for businesses looking to manage labour costs without sacrificing productivity or project delivery.Key Benefits of Contract Recruitment for Engineering and ManufacturingScalable Workforce SolutionsScale your workforce up or down based on project needs, without the long-term financial commitment of permanent employees.Access to Specialist SkillsEngage expert contractors for niche roles or time-bound projects, ensuring high-quality work without the overhead of a full-time hire.Reduced Employment CostsAvoid additional expenses tied to permanent staff, such as benefits, pensions, training, and NIC obligations.This flexible approach helps companies stay agile, maintain project continuity, and manage risk during economic uncertainty. How to Implement Contract Recruitment EffectivelyTo unlock the full benefits of a contract workforce in engineering and manufacturing, businesses should:1. Partner with a Specialist Recruitment AgencyWork with a firm that understands your industry and has access to a pre-vetted pool of engineering and manufacturing contractors.2. Align Workforce Planning with Project GoalsAssess your project pipeline and identify where short-term expertise or extra capacity is needed.3. Stay Compliant with Employment RegulationsEnsure contracts, IR35 status, and all legal obligations are properly managed to avoid potential pitfalls. Need Help with Contract Recruitment?At ATA Recruitment, we’re committed to addressing the skills shortage in engineering and manufacturing. Contract recruitment is just one of the many tailored solutions we offer to help bridge that gap, offering access to a wide network of qualified professionals ready to hit the ground running.Learn more on our Contract Recruitment Services page to discover how we can support your workforce planning.
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Helping Ex-Forces Transition into Engineering CareersAs increasing numbers of individuals leave the Armed Forces, many are seeking meaningful civilian careers that align with their skills, discipline and work ethic. At ATA Recruitment, Lewis Gardner has become a trusted specialist in ex-Forces recruitment, helping service leavers transition into engineering and technical roles across the UK.Why Are More People Leaving the Armed Forces?There has been a significant rise in the number of people leaving the Armed Forces in recent years. Many cite the need for a better work-life balance, the desire to live closer to home, and a benefits package that no longer reflects today’s financial demands. Some service leavers are commuting up to 6.5 hours, while others face long hours and unpaid overtime due to staffing shortages. These challenges are driving a growing number to explore civilian jobs after the military.Supporting Career Transitions for Ex-Forces CandidatesLewis Gardner has placed numerous ex-military candidates into long-term roles, with around 90% of placements in automation and manufacturing environments. His passion for supporting veterans started with a single conversation:“After speaking with my first Forces leaver, I found the whole process genuinely rewarding. These candidates often feel uncertain about what ‘Civvy Street’ holds for them. But once you start consulting and guiding them through their career transition, it becomes clear just how much value they can bring to engineering and technical teams.”What Makes Ex-Forces Candidates Ideal for Engineering and Manufacturing?Ex-Forces personnel possess a unique combination of technical skills, reliability, and resilience. But Lewis is keen to avoid generalisations.“Not every Forces leaver is the same. What they often share, though, is a realistic mindset, a willingness to learn, and incredible discipline. Many are more than happy to travel if the role is right. They’re also excellent listeners — a trait highly valued in any engineering team.”Success Stories: Building Stronger Teams with Veteran TalentOne notable success has been the placement of four Forces leavers at Frasers Group, where the Shift Manager is also ex-Forces.“There was an instant connection,” Lewis explains. “Shared values and experience made it easy for the new hires to integrate, and the employer quickly saw the benefits.”Overcoming Barriers to Civilian EmploymentJob interviews in the civilian world can be a daunting change for military professionals. Lewis ensures every candidate is fully prepared with coaching, mock interviews, and personalised support.“We focus on building confidence and helping them present their skills in a way that resonates with hiring managers. It’s about showing them how to translate their experience into commercial value.”Why Supporting Forces Leavers MattersThis work is more than just recruitment. For Lewis, it’s personal.“There are more Forces leavers than ever before, and they need someone who truly understands their journey. I see my role as a consultant, not just a recruiter. It's about being someone they can trust — someone who’s there to open doors and reduce the stress of a big life change.”Thanks to word-of-mouth recommendations, more and more ex-military candidates are finding their way to ATA Recruitment, confident that their careers are in expert hands.Looking to Build or Begin a Career in Engineering?Whether you're an ex-Forces professional seeking your next opportunity or an employer looking to strengthen your technical team, ATA Recruitment is here to help. We're Bridging The Skills Gap in UK engineering by connecting skilled, disciplined service leavers with employers in manufacturing, automation, and beyond.If you’re leaving the military and want support transitioning into a civilian engineering role or if you're hiring and want to explore the value ex-Forces talent can bring, get in touch with Lewis Gardner at lewis.gardner@ata-recruitment.co.uk, call 07583 676 804, or fill in the form below.
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