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
Quality Inspector / Technician
£20 - 22 per hour
West Yorkshire
**Quality Inspector / Technician** Leeds Huddersfield Halifax Dewsbury Wakefield £20.00 - £22.00p/h inclusive of holiday pay PAYE / Umbrella Initial 3-month contract Manufacturing / QHSE / Engineering Based in West Yorkshire I am currently recruiting on behalf of a key client who require a Quality Inspector / Technician to join their team on a temporary contract with an initial 3-month commitment. My client are leading manufacturers of technical equipment across oil & gas and chemical industries. For this position of Quality Inspector / Technician, you will require to conduct the following duties: Review risk assessments & monitor operations following company QHSE policies Complete internal audit activities including preparation and inspections Administer and resolve customer complaints including RCA and CAPA Work closely with QHSE Manager and engage in all H&S and environment activities Create quality plans, ITP and SOPs Manage the calibration system The successful Quality Inspector / Technician will need to have the following attributes: Proven background working within quality Experience in an engineering / manufacturing capacity Expert user of Microsoft Office packages Able to demonstrate knowledge of RCA and CAPA Prompt decision making and attention to detail The benefits of this position: Highly reputable worldwide business Opportunity to go permanent if succesfull Circa 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, days only. I am looking to speak to talented Quality Inspectors / technicians , who are looking for a very rewarding and challenging contract position. For more information, please contact Dom Firth, Recruitment Consultant at ATA Recruitment. ATA Recruitment are specialists 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 - 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
£35 - 35 per hour LTD Outside IR35
Newbury
Electrical Maintenance Engineer – Manufacturing Based in Berkshire – 3 month rolling contract Panama Shifts (12hr) – Days and Nights Outside IR35 £35ph The business is now looking for an Electrical Maintenance Engineer to support the internal team and to ensure downtime is to a minimum whilst maintaining standards of a variety of equipment. 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 Electrical Maintenance Engineer will involve the following. Reactive maintenance will include fault finding and replacing components on a variety of machines. Preventative maintenance Electrical responsibilities will include fault finding on PLCs and a variety of electrical components such as sensors, relays, proximities, control panels, single phase, three phase, AC and DC motors and contactors The Maintenance Engineer must possess the following skills and experience. Previous Electrical experience within an Industrial environment – this could be Manufacturing, or FMCG. NVQ LVL 3 or Apprenticeship in Electrical Engineering is a must Able to fault find and repair a wide range electrical component Experience with working PLCs (Siemens S5 and S7) The benefits of this Maintenance Engineer contract is the following. Established rolling 3-month contract Panama Shifts including day and nights Minimum of 40 hours per week available Outside IR35 Immediate Start 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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Mechanical Maintenance Engineer
£34 - 34 per hour LTD Outside IR35
Newbury
Mechanical Maintenance Engineer – Manufacturing Based in West Berkshire – 3 month rolling contract Panama Shifts (12hr) – Day and Nights Outside IR35 £34ph The business is now looking for a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer to support the internal team and to ensure downtime is to a minimum whilst maintaining standards of a variety of equipment. 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 Mechanical Maintenance Engineer will involve the following. You will be responsible for the upkeep of and maintenance of heavy mechanical machinery. Reactive maintenance is a priority and will include fault finding and replacing components on a variety of machines such as, conveyors, cranes, cookers, slicers, Kiln cars, bearings and chains. Preventative maintenance will involve project work and working of a CMMS system to complete planned maintenance. Installation and fitting of mechanical components. The Mechanical Maintenance Engineer must possess the following skills and experience. Previous mechanical experience within a heavy-duty industrial manufacturing environment is a must. Mechanical maintenance and fitting experience are a must within an industrial engineering background. NVQ LVL 3 or Apprenticeship in Mechanical Engineering will be very advantageous The benefits of this Maintenance Engineer contract are the following. Established rolling 3-month contract Panama Shifts including day and nights Minimum of 40 hours per week available Outside IR35 Immediate Start 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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Panel Wirer
£20 - 20 per hour Umbrella
Peterborough
Panel Wireman 3 month Rolling Contract Based in Peterborough Monday - Friday 10 Hour Shifts £20ph LTD Outside IR35 Opportunity to work for a major controls panel manufacturing company generating over £15milion annually. 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 Panel Wirer will include the following: Fabricate panels and fit electrical components according to detailed engineering drawings Drilling, Tapping, Trunking, Conduit of panel etc Installing electrical components such as circuit breakers, fuses, PLC’s Power supplies, motors, drives etc Wiring panels – crimping soldiering, terminating, stripping wires Basic testing of control panels The Panel Wireman must possess the following skills & experience: Proven experience in panel wirer within an industrial environment Understanding schematics and layout drawings Expertise in panel modification, building and machine wiring Electrical qualification, NVQ LVL 3 or equivalent or apprentice trained ability to fault find and repair a variety of control panels Hardworking, reliable and enthusiastic Good communication skills to interact effectively with team members The benefits of this position: Monday to Friday 10 hour shifts Plenty of overtime available 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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Senior project Manager (Engineering)
£55000 - 60000 per year Benefits
Chesterfield
Senior Project Manager Location: Chesterfield, United Kingdom Salary: £55,000 - £60,000 Holidays: 25 days + 8 bank holidays Remote working & half day on Fridays The company: Our client is an EPC business specialising in the design and manufacturing of products used within the aluminium processing industry, they design a range of catalogue products and machines as well as offering a turnkey solution for large factory installations, these products are often used within the recycling and manufacturing industries. They currently employ 90 members of staff within the UK and have experienced a turnover of over £30 million in the last year and have been established for more than 40 years in the UK. As a business they are experiencing growth and a consistent large volume of incoming projects globally across Europe, Canda and the middle east, with upcoming projects ranging from £8-10 Million in value, as such they are looking to expand their design team to allow them to run additional projects simultaneously and take on additional workload to help push the business forward. The Role: We are looking for an experienced Project Manager with a background in the heavy-duty engineering or machinery. You will be joining a team of 4 Project Managers and will be responsible for overseeing project delivery throughout Mechanical, Electrical and Controls specialities who you will be working alongside day to day on new projects, Managing the delivery of these projects from start to finish. You will be responsible for managing up to 10 projects simultaneously, with an average project value of around £300,000 - £600,000, and a typical project length of up to 9 months. To perform your activities, you will employ the use of Systems and tools such as Monday.com, MS Projects and Sage 200 Your Responsibilities will include: Plan, execute, and oversee projects from inception to completion. Coordinate internal resources and third parties/vendors for project execution. Develop detailed project plans and ensure resource allocation. Track and monitor project progress, providing regular updates to stakeholders. Manage changes to project scope, schedule, and costs. Perform risk management to minimize project risks. Establish and maintain relationships with clients and stakeholders. Create and maintain comprehensive project documentation. Ensure clear and transparent communication across departments. Qualifications & Experience: Degree in Engineering, or a related field. Previous experience in project management, preferably in the heavy machinery industry. Strong knowledge of project management methodologies. Proficiency in project management software (e.g. MS Project, Monday.com) Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. Experience in the design, manufacturing, and assembly of machinery. Ability to travel internationally when required. The Benefits: Competitive salary up to £60,000. 25 days holiday + 8 bank holidays. Pension savings plan with company match up to 5%. Remote working & half day on Friday Death in service benefit (2x final salary). Opportunities for professional development and career advancement. A collaborative and innovative work environment. How to Apply: If you are a motivated and experienced Project Manager looking to join a growing company, we want to hear from you! Please send your CV to Matt Taylor at matt.taylor@ata-recruitment.co.uk or give me a call on 0116 218 1644 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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Bodywork Specialist
£19 - 19 per hour
Daventry
Bodywork Specialist Location: Daventry Shifts: 1 Position for Days (8am-5pm Monday to Thursday, 8am-4pm Fridays) Salary: £16.94p/h + £2.04 Holiday Pay (£34,354 per annum) The Company: With over 50 years of experience, this company is a leading provider of high-quality paint finishes in the UK, renowned for its expertise in the motorsport industry. Its work spans across top-tier motorsport categories, including Formula 1, Formula 3, World Touring Cars, British Touring Cars, and GT Cars. In addition to serving the motorsport and automotive sectors, the company leverages its extensive experience to offer advanced refinishing solutions for a variety of industries, including aviation, industrial, and marine applications. Whether for one-off projects or high-volume needs, the company is equipped to deliver tailored refinishing solutions for any type of customer. They are now looking for two experience Bodywork Specialists to support in the prepping and painting of their high end cars. This role requires flexibility, precision, and the ability to work on high-value and intricate projects across different vehicle types. Please contact Fred O’Reilly at Fred.oreilly@ata-recruitment.co.uk or on 07827918324 regarding this role. Role Overview: Prepare a variety of materials including Fibreglass, Carbon Fibre, Aluminium, Steel, plastics. Ensure surfaces are ready for primer and topcoat application. Mask panels as necessary. Current projects include Porsche, Ferrari, and Lotus (working on various components and refinishing), Jaguar Replica (night shifts) Additionally, the race car division may require specialised work, such as: Accident repair: A new wing may be required for a race car, but due to its age (over 50 years old), a new part can’t be purchased. You’ll be expected to fill and remake the damaged area, seamlessly restoring it from edge to edge. Requirements of the successful candidate: Able to work in a timely and efficient manner Experience preparing Fibreglass, Carbon Fibre, Aluminium, Steel, plastics. Experience repairing and restoring bodywork High level of attention to detail Ability to carry out precise and quality finishes Experience in strong edge-to edge filler work Benefits: Competitive Salary Access to work on state of the art and rare cars 20 Shifts + Bank Holidays To be considered for this role please either hit the 'Apply' button on this site or email your CV directly to suzanne.winton@ata-recruitment.co.uk ATA Recruitment specialise in Technical and Electrical Engineering, 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! - ; 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 Site Supervisor
£370 - 400 per day
Leicestershire
Mechanical Site Supervisor – Leicestershire Rate: £370- £400 Per day Ltd Company (Outside IR35) Working Hours • Monday to Friday: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM (up to 10 hours per day) • Two Saturdays per month at overtime rate (x1.5) Initial 6 Month contract with possible extension Our client are a leading provider of innovative automated supply chain solutions, software, and services, specialising in designing, building, and supporting cutting-edge systems for warehouses, distribution centres, and manufacturing facilities. These advanced solutions streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and improve productivity across various industries and now require a Mechanical Site Supervisor. The Mechanical Site Supervisor will oversee the installation of mechanical systems, particularly conveyor systems (pallet conveyors, case conveyors, linear sorters, and modular conveyor systems). You will be responsible for managing subcontractors, ensuring they meet project goals, maintaining safety standards, and ensuring the quality of work. Key Responsibilities: • Supervision of Mechanical Installation: Oversee the installation of mechanical systems, including pallet conveyors, case conveyors, linear sorters, and modular conveyor systems (MCS). • Subcontractor Management: Manage and coordinate subcontractors on-site, ensuring they adhere to project timelines, quality standards, and safety protocols. • Daily and Weekly Reporting: Attend morning meetings, set clear daily and weekly targets for subcontractors, and submit progress reports to the Mechanical Lead and Site Manager. • Collaboration: Work closely with the EHS team & Engineering team, and the Project Management team to ensure alignment with project goals. • Safety and Risk Management: Familiar with and ensure that all risk assessments, safety observations, and behavioural safety observations are adhered to by the installation team. • Quality Auditing: Audit the quality of work and ensure it meets the required standards. • Team Leadership: Lead and motivate a team of installers, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and to the highest standard. • Meetings and Communication: Regularly attend team meetings to communicate objectives, project targets, and any issues that may arise. Essential Requirements: • CSCS Black Card (CSCS Supervisor level or above). • Significant experience in mechanical installations within an Automated machinery environment, particularly conveyor systems for distribution warehouses (pallet, case, and linear sorters). • Strong leadership skills and the ability to manage subcontractors effectively. • Experience in conducting risk assessments and safety observations on-site. • Ability to audit work quality and ensure adherence to project specifications. • Strong communication skills for daily reporting and collaborating with various teams. • Knowledge of safety regulations and practices within construction and mechanical installation. Desirable Qualifications/Experience: • Previous experience in a similar role, particularly with modular conveyor systems (MCS). • Ability to adapt to changing project requirements and maintain productivity under pressure 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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Multi Skilled Maintenance Engineer
£45000 - 50000 per year 5% Pension +Bonus + 30days holiday +other benefits
Stockport
Multi-Skilled Maintenance Engineer Job Title: Multi-Skilled Maintenance Engineer Location: Stockport Salary: £45,000 - £50,000 DOE Shifts: Mon- Fri Day’s only early finish every Friday About the Role: My client is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Maintenance Engineer to join their dynamic team at a leading, innovative manufacturing facility. This role requires a hands-on approach, ensuring all equipment and machinery operate at peak efficiency. If you are a problem-solver with a passion for engineering and a knack for diagnosing and repairing Mechanical/ Electrical systems, we want to hear from you! Key Responsibilities: • Perform routine and preventative maintenance on a variety of production and auxiliary equipment. • Diagnose mechanical, some electrical, hydraulic and pneumatic issues promptly and accurately. • Execute repairs and modifications to improve equipment reliability and performance. • Collaborate with the production team to minimize downtime and enhance productivity. • Maintain accurate maintenance records and update documentation as required. • Ensure compliance with safety regulations and company standards. Qualifications: • Proven experience in a multi-skilled maintenance role within a manufacturing or industrial environment. • Strong knowledge of Mechanical or Electrical systems. • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and manuals. • Proficient in using hand and power tools, diagnostic equipment, and machinery. • Excellent troubleshooting skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving. • Must have a minimum NVQ Level 3 either Electrical / Mechanical or equivalent. • Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team. What they Offer: • A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package,Bonus scheme. • 30 days Holiday • 5% Pension company contribution • Opportunities for professional development and career advancement. • A supportive and inclusive work environment. How to Apply: If you are a dedicated Maintenance Engineer looking for a challenging and rewarding opportunity, please submit your CV. Contact Information: For further information, please contact Jon.paryazani@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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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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