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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Multiskilled Maintenance Engineer, £52,000, Ashby De-La-Zouch Package includes Annual bonus, 25 days holiday, 7% match pension, healthcare plan, paid overtime, lots of benefits. Shift pattern -Panama Days and Nights 06:00 – 18:00 / 18:00 – 06:00. Opportunity to work for a large manufacturing group producing heritage brands we all know and love. Fantastic job security with a company scaling up not down. Feel empowered and make your decision ATA are supporting a large manufacturing group with global presence across 31 countries. The group are a household name with thousands of people consuming their products each day, equating into billions of sales per annum. Their site in Leicestershire, is a fantastic place to work and is rated 4.5 stars on glass doors, with employees describing the business as welcoming, people centred and one that genuinely wants to positively grow each year. They are looking for a multiskilled maintenance engineer of electrical biased to join their skilled team, where they will be responsible for maintaining machinery within a fast paced automated environment. About the role As a maintenance engineer you will be responsible for the upkeep of machinery within a fast paced and automated manufacturing environment. Responsibilities include: Planned Preventive Maintenance. Reacting to breakdowns. Fault finding and fault rectification. Project, upgrade and installation. About you To be considered for this multiskilled maintenance engineer role you should be/have the following: Multiskilled experience with an electrical bias. Experience with 3 phase motor control, electro-pneumatics, PLC. Strong fault-finding skills, the ability to problem solve and rectify faults in a safe and effective manner. Due to the nature of the site, ideally you should have experience within a fast-paced environment. You should hold a recognised level 3 (or above) engineering qualification city and guilds, NVQ, HND, HNC. The Benefits Joining our customer, you will be joining a forward-thinking manufacturing group who are scaling up and not down. You’ll be joining a company who hold value in their employee’s opinion, asking for regular feedback to how they can improve the site. Alongside this, you will get to work for a company who are working towards achieving world class standards in health and safety, giving you piece of mind at work. If you think you are the right multiskilled maintenance engineer for this market leader, please press apply, call Aj on 07701326339 to discuss the role ATA Recruitment specialises in Manufacturing, Infrastructure, Civil, Transportation and general Engineering recruitment on both a permanent and contract basis – for more opportunities like this one, visit our website. 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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Maintenance Engineer, Aylesbury, £55,000, Monday-Friday, bonus (last year £2k), 7% pension contribution, internal training, external qualification training. Shift – Monday-Friday (Days) About the role This role is for a stand-alone Maintenance Engineer for one of the largest food manufacturers in the UK. The site has recently been acquired and is now facing high growth and are now looking for an experienced Maintenance Engineer who has a track record of comfortably upholding Engineering standards within a food manufacturing environment. Responsibilities will include: To take responsibility for all Engineering standards at the site and to ensure the smooth running of a factory. Taking ownership of the site, documentation and workshop. To be capable of working with all mechanical components, as well as electrical components as well as food manufacturing machinery. The successful candidate will be looking after all 3 production lines. To comfortably monitor all machinery and be a step ahead of diagnosing any potential machine failures. About the company: The company we are currently in partnership with is market leading in their sector and operate across the whole of the UK. The parent company was established over 70+ years ago and is a household name in their sector. Our client has recently acquired this site, which is now facing a major increase in production. Our client is community-driven. At the forefront of their mission statement is ensuring that everything local to them thrives to its full extent. As well as this, every decision they make business related is taken in mind with the environmental impact it may have. About you: To be considered for the Maintenance Engineer position, you should have the following: Experience in a multi-skilled environment, being able to work with electrical equipment as comfortably as mechanical equipment. Due to this role being a stand-alone, you have to be able to work independently with a proactive mindset. Educated to a minimum of a Level 3 in an electrical field. Why join our client? Investing hugely across the board and invest heavily in employees to ensure retainment. An employee first approach with a generous benefits package, including private healthcare, bonus, life insurance as well as more benefits. Regular salary reviews. If you want to hear more about becoming a Maintenance Engineer at this industry leading group, then please press apply or give Karolis a call on 07796 990 423, alternatively drop me an email on karolis.stenas@ata-recruitment.co.uk ATA Recruitment specialises in Manufacturing, Infrastructure, Civil, Transportation and general Engineering recruitment on both a permanent and contract basis – for more opportunities like this one, visit our website 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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Maintenance Engineer Mechanical Biased Location: Birmingham. Salary: £52,000 + Company Bonuses + Premium Overtime Rates + Specialist Training + OEM Courses. On-Target Earnings: £60,000+ Shifts: 4 on 4 off Rotation. (Days and Nights) Join a Multi-Billion-Pound Group and Be a Vital Part of the Business! Benefits: Have a real input into a critical part of the business. Enjoy bundles of investments in you! Expect comprehensive training, courses, and the potential to earn on top of your basic salary. Paid overtime opportunities, up to double time. Quarterly company bonus scheme. The Company: This is an amazing opportunity to work within an awesome multi-billion-pound group. Our client is looking for a Maintenance Engineer Our client stands as one of the UKs leading manufacturing businesses within its industry, with a widespread network and multiple sites across the U.K. They take pride in supplying bespoke products to diverse industries, including the military, aerospace, and public sectors. The machinery in this role is exclusive and rare, with only a limited number of similar machines in the world. Exciting Benefits Await: Work with a market leader offering stability, career growth, and extensive skill development. Enjoy 33 days holiday. Competitive salary and lucrative extras. Benefit from bespoke training on specialist equipment. Key duties will involve: As Maintenance Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maintenance machinery across the factory. The machinery in this role is exclusive and rare, with only a limited number of similar machines in the world The Role of a Maintenance Engineer: Take charge of a critical part of the production process! We are seeking a specialist Electrical Maintenance Engineer who is an all-rounder. In this role, you'll oversee maintenance, and continuous improvement ideas for the entire area. The bespoke machinery on-site is designed specifically for their industry, making it one of the few capable of handling their unique products. Our client offers an incredibly detailed training plan to ensure your confidence and success in the role. Your day-to-day will include: Maintaining an organized PPM schedule. Handling reactive maintenance tasks. Preparing handovers and shift reports. Ability to read, interpret and mark up electrical drawings. Ability to understand the set up and configuration of variable speed drives. Ideally will have worked with High Voltage. Good understanding IEE wiring regulations Experience with AC/DC drives, PLC, Scada as well as traditional control methodologies Will have worked in medium to heavy engineering You will be working in a heavy industry environment working on large capital-intensive equipment, conveyors, cranes, presses, heat treatment and vacuum equipment. Our client values your growth and success, offering an outstanding introduction program and hands-on training opportunities. Successful Candidate: We're seeking an Maintenance Engineer with a keen eye for detail and a strong commitment to safety. You'll enjoy a unique job title and role which is highly sought after. Medium to heavy industry experience. Engineering qualifications at Level 3+ or equivalent. Exciting Benefits Await: Work with a market leader offering stability, career growth, and extensive skill development. Enjoy 33 days holiday. Competitive salary and lucrative extras. Benefit from bespoke training on specialist equipment. 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 Mechanical Design Engineer Nottingham Salary: £40,000 - £50,000 (DOE) 25 Days Holiday + Bank Holidays The company: Our client is a leading provider of mechanical engineering services in the area, supplying, designing an installing Bespoke Materials Handling Equipment and Special Purpose Machinery. Established in the area, they have built a strong reputation for delivering quality service to their clients nationwide in the FMCG, and Logistics industries. Their team designs and assembles a variety of products, including conveyor systems, robots, structural steel work, Crane Systems, and more. They pride themselves in a providing a high standard of craftsmanship and innovation, Working with multi-billion-pound business across the UK. As a business they are experiencing growth and a consistent large volume of incoming projects, with a full order book! and have recently promoted from within, as such they are looking to expand their design team to allow them to run additional projects simultaneously. They currently employ over 150 employees across the business, with around 10 engineers in the design team. The role: As a Mechanical Design Engineer, you will be an integral part of the close-knit design team, working on a variety of projects from initial conception and proposal, and seeing them all the way through to installation. Your responsibilities will include: Designing whole machinery as well as individual components Offering a “cradle to grave” solution Using the CAD Package Solid Works Producing both 3D and 2D drawing (With a large focus on 3D) Attending site visits and consulting clients to understand project requirements. Creating detailed workshop drawings and overseeing the fabrication process Being involved with the selection and purchasing of components Managing multiple projects and ensuring timely delivery Collaborating with clients and internal teams to plan installations. What we’re looking for in a candidate: Previous use of SolidWorks is essential A general understanding of engineering principles and the ability to problem solve. Experience within the food processing, conveyor systems or sheet metal industry. Experience designing SPM and building prototypes. Strong project management skills and the ability to manage your own workload. Capable of working within a customer facing role and offering a consultative service to clients Excellent communication skills and the ability to work independently. The Benefits: Competitive salary package - £40k - £50k Depending on experience. Office-based role, with small friendly team Working hours of: 8:30am – 5pm (Mon-Friday) With option for flexible hours starting as early as 6:30am 25 days of annual leave + bank holidays A supportive and collaborative work environment Opportunities for professional development and career growth within an expanding team How to Apply: If you are a motivated and experienced Mechanical Design Engineer 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 Recruitment specialises in Manufacturing, Infrastructure, Civil, Transportation and general Engineering recruitment on both a permanent and contract basis – for more opportunities like this one, visit our website. By applying you accept the terms of our Privacy Notice which can be 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 Role: Multi Skilled Maintenance Engineer £54,000 - 56,000 Basic+ O/T + annual bonus scheme + 5% Pension company contribution + Healthcare Shift: 3 shift Pattern The company A leading manufacturer in the FMCG industry. As a maintenance engineer you will have the chance to work on the latest and state of the art machinery to help maintain the company status as a market leader in the sector. The Role My Client is looking for a multi skilled maintenance engineer to join the team. As a maintenance engineer, you will be responsible for ensuring that the production equipment is maintained to the highest standards, ensuring that our operations run smoothly and efficiently. Key Responsibilities Carry out planned and reactive maintenance on a range of production equipment including conveyors, mixers and packaging machines. • Identify faults, diagnose, and repair breakdowns and perform preventative maintenance on all machinery. • Work closely with the production team to minimize downtime and optimize production output. • Maintain accurate records of all maintenance work and ensure that all equipment is safe and compliant with relevant legislation and standards. • Liaise with external suppliers and contractors to ensure that all equipment is serviced and repaired in a timely and efficient manner. Requirements of a Multi Skilled Maintenance Engineer • To have a Minimum of a NVQ level 3 or equivalent in Engineering • Previous experience in a Manufacturing environment • Ability to diagnose and repair faults and perform preventative maintenance on production equipment. • Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively within a team. Benefits for a Multi Skilled Maintenance Engineer • OT Available • Great Training • 5% Pension company contribution • Bonus • healthcare and other Great benefits 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 Controls & Instrumentation Engineer West Yorkshire £47.50 - £52.50 p/h DOE (outside IR35) 3-6 Month Contract Instrumentation / Siemens TIA Portal / Allen Bradley / Design I am currently recruiting for a skilled EC&I Engineer to be based in West Yorkshire on a 3–6-month contract with a key client who require an immediate starter. As an EC&I Engineer, you will require to conduct the following duties: Control panel design for complex automated systems Producing P&IDs, functional specifications, HDS/SDS documentation Full PLC and control systems specification Working mainly with Siemens TIA Portaland Allen Bradley Supporting multi-skilled engineers through commissioning The successful EC&I Engineer will need to have the following attributes: Strong background in EC&I designs Knowledge of fans, valves, valve sets, sensors, and instrumentation Previous experience with automated machinery in a regulated environment Ability to produce high-quality design documentation Strong teamwork skills and ability to hit the ground running Benefits of this position Flexible working hours with overtime available Outside IR35 Immediate start I am looking to speak to talented EC&I Engineers who are looking for a rewarding and highly challenging position. For more information, please contact Dom Firth (07892789342), Recruitment Consultant at ATA Recruitment. ATA Recruitment specialises in Manufacturing, Infrastructure, Civil, Transportation and General Engineering recruitment on both a permanent and contract basis – for more opportunities like this one, visit our website - 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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Food Maintenance Engineer (Boiler & Refrigeration) Location: Commutable from Evesham, Cheltenham, Worcester Contract: 3-6 Month Rolling Contract Shifts: 4 on 4 off – 12hr Days & Nights (6–6) Rate: £35ph – Outside IR35 The Role: We’re looking for an experienced Food Maintenance Engineer with boiler and refrigeration expertise to join a busy FMCG site on a 3-month rolling contract. You’ll play a key role in maintaining and improving critical utility systems, ensuring production runs smoothly and safely. Day-to-day responsibilities will include: Maintaining and repairing ammonia refrigeration systems, industrial boilers, glycol chillers, cooling towers, and compressed air systems Delivering effective planned and reactive maintenance across plant and utilities Responding to mechanical and electrical breakdowns quickly to support production Completing accurate shift reports, emails, and handovers Ensuring compliance with safety standards, permit-to-work systems, and food safety (HACCP) requirements Identifying and implementing improvements to increase reliability and efficiency Working closely with Engineering, Production, Admin, and Stores teams The Ideal Candidate Will Have: 5+ years’ experience in FMCG or a similar fast-paced manufacturing environment Proven experience with refrigeration (ammonia), boilers, chillers, pumps, and motors Strong mechanical and electrical maintenance skills A recognised qualification in Mechanical, Electrical, or Refrigeration Engineering HACCP/Food Safety Level 3 (beneficial) Ammonia/BOAS/F-Gas certifications (beneficial) Basic welding/fabrication skills (advantage) What’s on Offer: Rolling 3-6 month contract 4 on 4 off shift pattern – 12hr days & nights (6–6) Minimum 42 hours per week £35ph – Outside IR35 Immediate start available I am looking to speak to talented Food Maintenance Engineers with boiler and refrigeration experience who are seeking a rewarding and highly challenging position. For more information, please contact Fred O’Reilly on 07827 918324 or email your CV to fred.oreilly@ata-recruitment.co.uk, Recruitment Specialist at ATA Recruitment. ATA Recruitment specialises in Manufacturing, Infrastructure, Civil, Transportation and General Engineering recruitment on both a permanent and contract basis – for more opportunities like this one, visit our website - By applying you accept the terms of our Privacy Notice which can be found on our website. ATA is committed to creating a diverse workforce and is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation
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Maintenance Engineer, £53,000, profit related pay with bonus increasing year by year, 7% pension contribution, internal training, external qualification training. Shift – 4 on 4 off (Panama Days/Nights) About the company: The company we are currently in partnership with is market leading in their sector and operate across the whole of the UK. Established over 100+ years ago, our client is a family business which has now grown to over 12 sites across the country, all operating with a different focus. Our client is constantly looking to increase, improve and initiate positive change fuelled by investment and acquisition to broaden their product portfolio. Our client is community-driven. At the forefront of their mission statement is ensuring that everything local to them thrives to it’s full extent. As well as this, every decision they make business related is taken in mind with the environmental impact it may have. About the role This is a fantastic opportunity for a Maintenance Engineer to join one of the largest as well as one of most stable companies in the FMCG sector. Due to growth and demand from the customers, the opportunity for a Maintenance Engineer has arisen. The successful Maintenance Engineer will have the opportunity to grow into leadership positions, as well as having real recognition for the effort they make in the workplace. Responsibilities will include: Ensuring the smooth running of the factory, by performing reactive and planned maintenance work. Electrical installations. Taking ownership of looking after the workshop, ensuring all the tools are correctly stored as well as ordering new stock when necessary. Teaching junior members of the engineering team to company standard and to ensure their success where possible. Fault-finding on both the electrical and mechanical components. No programming required but need to have the ability to check I/O’s, read schematics and check HMI Screens. The ideal candidate will have an electrical bias. About you: To be considered for the Maintenance Engineer position, you should have the following: Experience in a multi-skilled environment, being able to work with electrical equipment. Due to the nature of the work, you should be happy to work to food safety as well as health and safety requirements. Educated to a minimum of a Level 3 in an electrical field. To have initiative, as well as leadership skills when you may be required to if you are the most senior member on shift. Why join our client? Training in PLC’s as well as food safety, health safety and other benefits with training. An employee-first approach with clear routes of progression into leadership positions. 40% of promotions are internal. Regular salary reviews as well as unlimited overtime opportunities. If you want to hear more about becoming a Maintenance Engineer at this industry leading group, then please press apply or give Karolis a call on 07796 990 423, alternatively drop me an email on karolis.stenas@ata-recruitment.co.uk ATA Recruitment specialises in Manufacturing, Infrastructure, Civil, Transportation and general Engineering recruitment on both a permanent and contract basis – for more opportunities like this one, visit our website 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.
UK Automotive Manufacturing Enters a New Era with DRIVE35 The UK automotive industry is undergoing one of its most significant transformations in decades. With global shifts toward electrification, sustainability, and advanced manufacturing, the sector is being reshaped at speed. At the centre of this change is DRIVE35, a government-backed investment programme that is set to play a key role in the UK’s industrial future. Announced in 2025, DRIVE35 is a long-term commitment to revitalising automotive manufacturing and building the infrastructure needed to support a cleaner, more competitive economy. With £2.5 billion in funding through to 2035, it represents one of the largest single investments in the UK’s automotive sector in recent history.What Is DRIVE35?DRIVE35 is part of the UK’s broader Industrial Strategy, a plan focused on accelerating innovation, driving regional growth, and building resilience into key manufacturing sectors. The programme includes £2 billion for capital investment including new factories, facilities, and supply chain improvements and an additional £500 million for research and development. The primary focus areas of DRIVE35 include: Expanding electric vehicle production Supporting the growth of battery gigafactories Developing domestic EV supply chains Investing in low carbon and high efficiency manufacturing technologies It is a direct response to the urgent need to modernise production capabilities, reduce carbon emissions, and compete globally as other markets ramp up their own EV initiatives.Why It Matters for UK Manufacturing This shift is not just about cleaner cars. It is about the future of UK industry. Manufacturers are now expected to deliver new technologies faster, operate with greater efficiency, and meet growing sustainability and compliance standards. At the same time, they must navigate complex challenges such as international competition, supply chain pressures, and changing trade regulations. DRIVE35 is designed to provide long term support so that UK based manufacturers can lead rather than follow. It sends a strong message to both industry and investors that the UK is committed to high value sustainable manufacturing.A Shift in How Vehicles Are Built The nature of automotive manufacturing is changing rapidly. From battery pack assembly and power electronics to smart factories and digital quality systems, production processes are becoming more complex and more specialised. Many organisations will need to reconfigure their operations, adopt new technologies, and build partnerships across emerging parts of the supply chain. This is a significant opportunity but also a challenge for many established manufacturers who need to balance transformation with day to day delivery.The Human Element Behind the Transition For all the investment in technology and infrastructure, the success of DRIVE35 will ultimately depend on people. Meeting production goals, launching new products, and staying competitive requires teams with the right skills. Engineers, project managers, automation specialists, and quality professionals are essential to bringing new manufacturing systems online and ensuring they run efficiently, safely, and sustainably. As demand for these skill sets increases, so does the pressure on businesses to attract and retain them.Supporting the Industry Through Change At ATA Recruitment, we have worked alongside the UK manufacturing sector for more than 60 years. Having supported TMUK (the world’s biggest OEM) for a number of years, as well as a number of Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers we understand the technical complexity of automotive production and how quickly demands can evolve as technology progresses. Our role is to help companies find the skilled professionals they need to deliver on their ambitions. Whether that means supporting an electric vehicle scale up, recruiting for new battery production lines, or securing leadership for high value projects, we are ready to help. As DRIVE35 continues to reshape the UK automotive landscape, we are here to support the people and businesses building its future. If you are a business planning your next phase of growth or if you are an Engineer wanting to explore the opportunities available in the UK automotive industry please reach out, we’d be happy to help.
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Why More Businesses Are Turning to Contractors Amid Rising Employment Costs and IR35 ChangesThe way businesses think about their workforce is changing. Rising employment costs and new legislation such as the Employment Rights Bill and IR35 reform are driving leaders to explore flexible workforce models.Contractors, once seen as a stop gap, are now central to long-term strategy. They provide agility, cost efficiency, and access to specialist skills.A shifting employment pictureAccording to the Office for National Statistics, the UK had around 30 million payrolled employees in July 2025, a fall of 178,000 compared with the same month in 2024.Despite this, the unemployment rate remained steady at 4.7%. This highlights that demand for skills is still strong, but organisations are choosing different ways to access them.Contract and project-based workers are bridging the gap. They allow businesses to stay productive without expanding permanent headcount.At the same time, cost pressures are increasing. Government forecasts show that business rates in England are expected to rise to £28.8 billion in 2025–26, up from £27.5 billion in 2024–25.For engineering and manufacturing firms already facing higher energy and labour costs, flexibility is not just about efficiency. It is now a competitive edge.Why contractors are in demandContractors are helping organisations adapt by offering immediate and measurable advantages:Agility: Teams can be scaled quickly in response to project deadlines or market changes.Specialist expertise: Niche skills can be brought in at the point of need, particularly in engineering and technical sectors.Cost control: Businesses pay for expertise only when required, protecting margins while maintaining output.Plugging the permanent skills gapMany organisations are also struggling to recruit permanent engineers. The engineering skills gap remains one of the biggest challenges facing the UK economy, with demand for qualified professionals continuing to outstrip supply.Contractors are playing a vital role in bridging this gap. By stepping into critical roles at short notice, they keep production, maintenance, and projects moving forward.This flexible solution ensures organisations can remain competitive while developing longer-term strategies to attract and retain permanent talent.IR35: renewed confidenceFor several years, IR35 made businesses hesitant about engaging contractors. However, the updated rules introduced in April 2024 have provided more clarity, fairer processes, and better protection against disproportionate penalties.When compliance is managed properly, the financial risk of misclassification is relatively modest, typically around 8 to 10% of contractor fees.With this clarity, more firms are now recognising contractors as a low risk, high value way to strengthen their workforce.Contract recruitment as a growth driverContractors are no longer just filling short-term gaps. They are enabling businesses to take on new projects, adopt new technologies, and scale rapidly when opportunities arise.In engineering and manufacturing, this approach has become critical. Project pipelines are unpredictable, supply chains are shifting, and the demand for technical skills continues to outpace supply.A blended workforce of permanent and contract talent gives businesses the resilience to adapt and grow.One decisive advantageTo fully realise these benefits, businesses need more than just access to contractors. They need the right talent, deployed quickly, with compliance guaranteed.This is where ATA Recruitment provides a decisive advantage. At ATA Recruitment, we recognise that the skills gap in engineering and manufacturing is one of the greatest challenges facing the industry today. That is why we are dedicated to driving long-term, sustainable change.Our mission is to bridge the skills gap in engineering and manufacturing through world-class recruitment and attraction methodologies. We are committed to driving the growth of the sectors we serve, the businesses within them, and the careers of individuals.Ready to unlock the benefits of contract recruitment?Build a more agile workforce, access specialist skills when you need them, and stay fully compliant with IR35.Talk to ATA Recruitment today to strengthen your contractor strategy.
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2025 Half Year Maintenance Market Report With nearly 60 years’ experience delivering specialist recruitment solutions to the manufacturing and engineering sectors, ATA Recruitment is recognised as a trusted market leader. Our focus has always been on providing high value services backed by industry insight. As part of this, we regularly share up to date market intelligence to support our clients in making informed hiring decisions.Now in its third consecutive year, our Half Year Maintenance Market Report continues to be an essential resource for employers navigating today’s fast moving market. First introduced to provide more agile reporting alongside our long running Annual Maintenance Report, now in its ninth year, this edition offers an up to date view of current trends and salary benchmarks.The 2025 Half Year Report is based on data collected from a broad range of UK businesses, from SMEs to large blue chip companies, operating across sectors such as Food Manufacturing, Automated Distribution, FMCG, Construction Materials and General Manufacturing.We hope this report provides a useful benchmark for your maintenance recruitment plans. If you would like to discuss the insights in more detail or explore how they relate to your business, please get in touch with our specialist team.Download the Half Year Maintenance Salary Report 2025Get in touch with us here
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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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