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...
Find Out More
Specialist General Engineering RecruitmentATA Recruitment is a leading engineering recruitment company in the UK, specialising in sourcing high-calibre professionals for general engineering roles...
Find Out More
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...
Find Out More
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...
Find Out More
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...
Find Out More
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 ...
Find Out More
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...
Find Out More
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 ...
Find Out More
Construction Materials Manufacturing RecruitmentATA Recruitment is a specialist recruitment partner for the construction materials manufacturing sector. For over a decade, we’ve supported leading ...
Find Out More
Transitioning Military Skills into Civilian CareersMilitary service instils a range of transferable skills, including leadership, discipline, problem-solving, and technical proficiency. At ATA Re...
Find Out More
Find Out More
Controls & Commissioning Engineer Salary: £45,000 – £55,000 (depending on experience and skillset) Location: Leicestershire Hours: 8am – 5pm (1 hour lunch) (Hybrid option could be considered for legitimate reasons) Benefits: Company Pension, Pool car for commissioning travel, Time off in lieu, 25 Days holiday About the Role Our client has been a staple within the area for over 40 years designing and manufacturing bespoke automation solutions across numerous industries on a global scale. With an Engineer heavy environment, this forward-thinking company offer exciting technical solutions which look at improving manufacturing efficiencies, reducing labour costs and supporting new and innovative technology. We are seeking a skilled and motivated Controls & Commissioning Engineer to join this dynamic and thriving business due to a recent leaver. With customers across Europe, North America, and Asia, the business delivers precision-engineered solutions to some of the world’s most advanced manufacturing sectors. The successful Controls & Commissioning Engineer will be involved in full project lifecycle from concept through site installation & commissioning and be responsible for all software elements of the project. Key Responsibilities Create all technical documentation (at both design and commissioning stage) Design and develop electrical control systems Carry out all PLC Programming in Siemens (Omron or Rockwell) Test in simulation (FAT) before travelling to site to perform SAT Travel to site to complete commissioning before final sign off (Up to 20% of your time) Preferred Skills & Experience To be successful in your application for this Controls & Commissioning Engineer role you will need: A relevant qualification i.e. Electrical/Controls Apprenticeship/HNC or Degree Previous experience working as a Controls Engineer within either a manufacturing or systems integration environment Siemens PLC experience (Rockwell/Allen Bradley or Omron would also be advantageous) A desire to OR previous experience working within a Commissioning role having travelled to clients’ sites (Up to 20% of your time) Strong communication skills and a methodical, detail-oriented approach Previous client facing experience would be highly beneficial Why Join Us? This is a fantastic opportunity for a Controls Systems & Commissioning Engineer looking to work on cutting-edge engineering projects with UK wide & global reach. You’ll be part of a collaborative and forward-thinking team, fantastic training opportunities. In return, our client is offering a package of; Salary: £45,000 – £55,000 (depending on experience and skillset) Location: Leicestershire Hours: 8am – 5pm (1 hour lunch) (Hybrid option could be considered for legitimate reasons) Benefits: Company Pension, Pool car for commissioning travel, Time off in lieu, 25 Days holiday If you wish to be considered for this opportunity then please respond with your intention as we are looking to fill this role in the coming few weeks, you will then be contacting by one of our Recruitment Consultant who will be able to provide more details. 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
Apply now
Technical Sales Engineer Leicestershire £50,000 – 60,000 plus OTE £70,000 – 80,000 The Company Our client design and manufactures highly bespoke fabricated mechanical systems for a wide range of sectors including general industrial manufacturing as well as the metals and chemicals manufacturing sectors. The business has been trading for over 70 years and has a great reputation in their industry known for the quality of their products and the service they provide for their customers. The business carries out a wide range of fabrication on their shop floor including welding, press brake work and CNC Plasma Processing allow them to make their products bespoke for their customers tailoring them to the exact solutions the customer needs. The business has new leadership in place, and the new senior team have ambitious plans to grow the business and update systems across the business to support this future growth. The businesses current Technical Sales Engineer is due to retire in around 12 months’ time so the company are succession planning for the future and will provide you with a great handover period with him learning about the current customer base. The new business leadership also want the incoming Technical Sales Engineer to have a large say in the future direction of business development and sales strategy for the business with an opportunity to join the senior leadership team in the future. The Role The company manufacture a wide range of bespoke products including large filter systems, industrial ducting, fans and spray booths. The role of Technical Sales Engineer will see you being responsible for circa £2 million of annual sales for this equipment. The business generates all of their current revenue through existing customer relationships or via incoming leads due to their reputation in the market. Enquiry comes from a customer for new system required. Visit the customer to scope the site and understand the mechanical specifics needed from the system. Understand what problem the customer needs solving with the installation of the new system. Build up quote and costing for the project for the customer. Their more bespoke products can sell for between £100,000 and £120,000 Close the order with the customer The business has customers across the Midlands and further afield in Ireland, Scotland and the South West. The new ownership wants the business to grow into new customers and markets and want the Technical Sales Engineer to have an input into the strategy to help with proactive new business growth. This will involve identifying new sales channels to promote their products and specific target markets to focus on. The business will be underpinning this by improving their visibility and marketing online to generate even further inbound sales demand. The Candidate To be successful in your application for this Technical Sales Engineer role you will need: A background in technical sales A mechanical appreciation – the ability to understand or interpret mechanical engineering drawings Strong relationship and business development skills Strong integrity and someone the business can put trust in Someone with an appetite for new business development as the company grows. Someone who wants strategic input into the future sales growth of the business. Someone who is a consultative solution led sales person. The Benefits For this Technical Sales Engineer role, the following benefits are on offer: £50,000 – 60,000 dependent upon experience Commission scheme to be defined with OTE £70,000 – 80,000 25 Days annual leave plus bank holidays Company Car 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
Apply now
Maintenance Engineer Shifts- (4 on 4 off – Days & Nights) Location- Chester Salary -£44,000 + overtime (earn £46–48K OTE) (Salary Rising to £50,000 once training Matrix is complete) Our client is looking for a hands-on, proactive Maintenance Engineer to join their engineering team on a 4 on, 4 off shift pattern (days & nights, 6am–6pm / 6pm–6am). This role is an excellent opportunity for a recently qualified engineer or an experienced engineer looking to expand their skill set. With a comprehensive training matrix in place, we actively support career development and cross-skilling — for example, offering pathways for mechanical engineers to gain electrical qualifications, including the 18th Edition certification. We invest heavily in our people, with a clear internal training matrix linked to salary. Your career and earnings can progress to £50K+ with development. The Role As a Maintenance Engineer, you’ll be responsible for: Reactive maintenance across the site – keeping operations running smoothly. Working with a wide range of equipment: compressors, boilers, pumps, valves, pneumatics, motors, and hydraulics (pumps/seals). Facilities and plant maintenance. PLC fault finding (bespoke/obscure German systems – no programming required). PPMs managed through our CMMS system (mainly carried out on night shifts). Occasional welding (TIG/Stick) – desirable but not essential. Prospects & Training We invest heavily in our people, with a clear internal training matrix linked to salary. Your career and earnings can progress to £50K+ with development. What you’ll get: Initial Training: Site systems, health & safety, and equipment training when you start. Future Development: Structured progression and cross-skilling opportunities. Extra Qualifications: Boiler Training (STEAM) – intensive BOAS and LTA (Laundry Technology Academy). 18th Edition, NVQ 3 Electrical, HNC. IOSH Safety Training. NVQ Multi-Skilling & Management Courses. Additional technical upskilling (pneumatics, hydraulics, welding, etc.). If training is beneficial to both you and the company, we’ll invest in it. Pay & Benefits Salary: £44,000 basic (earn an extra £2K–7K with overtime). Contracted hours: 42 per week (4 on / 4 off, 12-hour shifts). Overtime: Plenty available, shared across the team.. Life Assurance: x1 annual salary. What Our Client is looking for Proven experience in a maintenance role. Strong understanding of pumps, compressors, boilers, pneumatics, motors, and hydraulics. Ability to fault find on PLCs (no programming required). Flexible, hands-on approach – this is a very reactive environment. Willingness to learn and take on training/development. If you’re looking for a role where every day is different, where your ideas and skills are valued, and where your training is invested in, this could be your next step. Apply now to join a team that develops from within and rewards your growth. 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
Apply now
Project Engineer Location: Nottingham (NG6) Salary: £40,000 - £60,000 (DOE) + Bonus Holidays: 25 Days + Bank Holidays The Role: We’re looking for a Project Engineer to join a market-leading automation and materials handling specialist, delivering turnkey solutions to some of the biggest names in logistics and warehousing. As Project Engineer, you’ll work closely with Project Managers to deliver complex engineering projects from concept through to installation, ensuring each stage stays on time, on budget, and to specification. You’ll act as the technical link between design, production, and project delivery teams, supporting the successful rollout of automation systems for major clients This is a perfect opportunity for an ambitious engineer who enjoys variety, technical challenge, and seeing their work make an impact in real-world, high-performance environments. Your Responsibilities will include: Support Project Managers in delivering projects from design to installation. Coordinate with internal design teams to ensure technical accuracy and timely progress. Review and check engineering drawings prior to release. Ensure project milestones are achieved on time and within budget. Attend client meetings, site surveys, and installation reviews as required. Track project schedules, risks, and progress using internal systems. Provide technical input to ensure designs meet functional requirements. Promote collaboration and communication between departments. Qualifications & Experience: Minimum 2+ years’ experience in a Project Engineer or Assistant Project Manager role. Background in Automation, Materials Handling, Conveyors, or Machinery. Degree or HNC/HND in Mechanical Engineering Experience taking projects through design and delivery stages. Strong communication, organisation, and people-management skills. Comfortable leading smaller projects or sections of larger ones. Confident liaising with clients and managing multiple priorities. Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel to customer sites as required. The Benefits: Salary between £40,000 – £60,000 DOE Performance-related bonus 25 days holiday + bank holidays Flexible working hours Opportunities for internal training and career development Exposure to large-scale, high-profile automation projects Collaborative and technically strong team environment The Company: Our client is one of the UK’s largest independent manufacturers and integrators of conveyor and automation systems, supplying full turnkey material-handling solutions to the logistics, warehousing, and FMCG sectors. The company designs, fabricates, and assembles all systems in-house. Our client continues to expand thanks to its reputation for quality, reliability, and end-to-end delivery expertise. How to Apply: If you are a motivated and experienced Project Engineer looking to join a growing business, 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
Apply now
Role: Maintenance Engineer Location: Mansfield Salary: £52,500 plus Group discount and technical development Shifts: 4on 4off Days and Nights The Company ATA Recruitment are proud to be working with a global client who are ever growing their group and increasing their status within the Global economy, now having stores in various industries in over 20 countries across the world the group has been established for 40 years and since then they have grown and gone from strength to strength creating this engineering opportunity with lots of security which is a huge benefit in the current financial climate. At their site in Mansfield they are currently recruiting for a number of Maintenance Engineers to join the site and creating an opportunity to work on some state-of-the-art equipment following the recent expansion of the site. So grab this opportunity with both hands whilst you can. The site in Mansfield is one of the largest facilities in Europe providing plenty of progression opportunity whether you want to progress technically or into man management the ball is in your court with the company fully supporting you! Since the site has opened there has been hundreds of millions of pounds invested into the engineering and automation function helping make the site efficient and embarking on a journey of continuous improvement. To help the journey and increase the commitment the current Head of Engineering, has helped the company overcome the teething issues, and has supported steady the ship over the last couple of years and increase the retention but also continued the investment and development on the site The Role As a Maintenance Engineer you will: - Be joining a shift team of 10 engineers including, SMEs and Shift Managers who don’t shy away from a challenge and supporting the team and helping development of their team - Be responsible for Electrical and Mechanical fault finding on fully automated systems, Following PPMs using the companies CMMS system following the recent installation of the software as a huge part of their long-term development of the site - React to any breakdowns during the shift and be an essential part of engineering problems out and ensuring they don’t happen again - Be working on over £200 million worth of automated machinery and some high-tech equipment including various conveyor systems, ASRS systems, Packaging equipment just to name a few! - The Engineer I am looking for a Maintenance Engineer that: - Has a recognised engineering qualification - Can communicate confidently and work as part of a team depending on the need - Work under pressure in a fast moving environment - Fault find confidently and isolate systems to make them safe to work on - Alternatively my client fully supports candidates from a Forces back ground and welcome them with open arms The Package and Benefits As a Maintenance Engineer you will receive - An annual salary of £52,500 - Pension Contribution - Discounted on site gym membership - Online Learning content with unlimited access - Refer a friend scheme and employee of the month which is DOUBLE monthly salary 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
Apply now
Role: Maintenance Engineer Shifts: Double Days / Monday – Friday Location: Romford Salary: £49,419 + Overtime (1.5x and 2.0x) The Client ATA are proud to be working with a global client within the pharmaceutical industry and they are a committed player within the healthcare sector with have main clients that include the NHS as well as the private healthcare sector. They have a UK manufacturing facility in Romford where the majority of products are made but also have facilities across Western Europe. With this role comes high job security and stability as 15 years ago they were producing 500,000 units a week, that number is now soaring at 1.5 million units per week supplying to nearly 100 countries around the globe. With the soar in production there has been mass investment in the site over the past 3 to 4 years nearly totalling at £20 million to modernise the site. Before my client took over the site in the late 10s the company before was established in the 1700s. The Role As a Maintenance Engineer you will be: - Working on various machinery such as Fillers, Conveyors, Packaging machines as well as, ovens, labellers and more - Reacting to breakdowns of any kit on site and looking to get the site up and running again - Recording and actioning PPMs like standard, lubrication and greasing alongside the CMMS system – the site are looking to turn more Proactive and reduce down time - Mechanically you will be working on various components including gearboxes, pneumatic systems, pulleys, shafts, gearboxes and Hydraulics - Electrically you will be working fault finding on control panels, working alongside, sensors, gearboxes, contactors and three phase kit The Requirements In a Maintenance Engineer I am looking for: - A recognised engineering qualification - A strong communicator who can work alongside the team - A confident engineer who will be able to work solo mechanically and electrically - Someone with experience working under high pressure in a fast moving environment The Package As a Maintenance Engineer you will - Receive an annual salary of £49,419 - Potential to work OT paid at 1.5x and 2.0x at weekends - Potential to train and progress for the right induvial - Work Monday to Friday (6-2 / 2-10) 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
Apply now
Electrical Installation Engineer - (Water background essential) Rate Between - £350 - £400 per day Based- Yateley / London We are looking for a hardworking and resourceful professional to join our clients team of highly skilled engineers. This role suits a self-motivated problem solver with practical skills, strong communication abilities, and a passion for delivering high-quality work. What You’ll Be Doing: Surveying, installing, commissioning, and supporting site-based control systems and equipment for a key client. Working predominantly on electrical tasks, with opportunities to gain PLC programming experience (Allen Bradley) Collaborating with other engineers or working independently, ensuring all tasks are completed to the highest standard within agreed deadlines. Traveling to sites within approximately three hours’ distance, with occasional overnight stays (not exceeding 20% of the working week). Working Hours: Full-time: Monday-Thursday 08:30–17:15, Friday 08:30–16:00 What We’re Looking For: Electrical qualifications such as C&G, BTEC, NVQ3, ONC/HNC/HND, with 18th edition required ECS Gold card holder Experience in service & support, electrical installation, or maintenance roles Skills in electrical design (EPlan, AutoCAD, or equivalent) and control panel design/manufacture Experience installing and commissioning equipment such as PLCs Minimum of 2 years’ practical experience Solid understanding of electrical diagrams for control panels or installations Level 3 Electrical Installation (2365) and Level 3 Requirements for Electrical Installations (BS7671:2018) Good verbal and written communication skills Clean UK Driving License and eligibility to work in the UK If you’re ready to take on an operational, hands-on role in a supportive and engaging environment, this is the opportunity for you! 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
Apply now
HSE Supervisor – Contractor Role (Daily Rate: £350–£380 per day) Location: Chester (onsite) Hours: Monday–Friday, full-time Contract Length: 3 months initial contract with extensions We are looking for an experienced and motivated HSE Manager to join a major UK structural steel project. This is an excellent opportunity to take full ownership of health, safety, and environmental performance on a large-scale industrial construction project. The Role You’ll lead all HSE activities on site, ensuring compliance with UK legislation and company policies. You will coordinate with site teams, implement systems and procedures, and drive a strong safety culture across the workforce. Responsibilities Overall responsibility for health, safety, and environmental performance on site Develop and implement the HSE management system (policies, procedures, standards) Ensure compliance with UK legislation (e.g., Health and Safety at Work Act, CDM Regulations) Lead and support accident/incident investigations including RIDDOR reporting Liaise with senior management and client-side HSE team Coordinate the permit-to-work system Assist in preparing and enforcing Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS) and Lift Plans Conduct site inspections, deliver toolbox talks, and carry out site audits Provide day-to-day HSE support to site operatives About You NEBOSH certification CSCS card Strong knowledge of UK construction legislation Experience in construction and manufacturing environments Crane operations experience is paramount Excellent communication skills and ability to work with the principal contractor What’s on Offer Competitive daily rate Work on a major UK structural steel project Opportunity to lead a multi-national site team Exposure to large-scale industrial construction 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
Apply now
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.
Why Food Manufacturing is an Exceptional Field for EngineersMaintenance Engineers might choose the food manufacturing sector over other industries for several strategic, practical, and personal reasons. Here’s a breakdown of the main advantages:1. Job Security and StabilityFood is essential, and people need it regardless of the economy.The industry is less cyclical than sectors such as automotive or aerospace.Demand remains high even during downturns, which means more stable employment.During COVID-19 and during economic recessions, food manufacturers continued operating while other industries slowed or shut down.2. High Demand for Skilled EngineersMany food factories are automated and rely heavily on electromechanical systems, creating a constant demand for skilled maintenance Engineers A shortage of skilled Engineers in the sector makes it easier to negotiate pay and benefits.3. Variety of Equipment and TechnologiesExposure to:This variety makes the work more engaging and helps build a broader skill set than in some other sectors..ConveyorsMixersPackaging linesPneumatics and hydraulicsRobotics and PLCs • Opportunities to work with advanced automation and continuous improvement projects.This variety makes the work more engaging and helps build a broader skill set than in some other sectors.4. Career Progression Opportunities Structured career ladders:Some companies also support transitions into roles such as process engineering or technical management.Technician → Shift Engineer → Team Leader → Engineering Manager • Cross-functional moves are possible into projects, continuous improvement, automation, or health and safety.Some companies also support transitions into roles such as process engineering or technical management.5. Good Pay and Shift Premiums Food manufacturers often run 24/7 operations, which means:Shift work with premiumsOvertime opportunitiesCompetitive base salaries to attract and retain Engineers6. Fast-Paced and Engaging WorkProduction lines must run efficiently to avoid waste or downtime.Issues require quick diagnosis and repair, meaning real-time problem solving.You can see the impact of your work immediately.If you enjoy being hands-on and mentally challenged, food manufacturing can be an ideal environment.7. Positive Social ImpactYou are helping to produce safe, high-quality food.There is pride in working in an industry that feeds the population.Whether it is bread, ready meals, dairy, or beverages, you are contributing to something meaningful.8. Opportunities Across the UK and BeyondFood factories are located nationwide, not just in major cities.Global food brands provide international career opportunities.8. Transferable SkillsThe skills gained in food manufacturing, such as electrical and mechanical troubleshooting, HACCP, and GMP, are highly transferable to:PharmaceuticalsPackagingFMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods)Logistics and warehousingDownsides to ConsiderOften cold or wet environmentsMay involve on-call duties or night shiftsStrict hygiene and compliance protocolsCan be physically demandingHowever, for many Engineers, these are small trade-offs for the rewards, variety, and long-term stability the sector offers.Ready to Explore Food Manufacturing RolesAt ATA Recruitment, we connect Engineers with top-tier food and drink manufacturers across the UK, from cutting-edge R&D teams to sustainability-driven operations.Browse our live food manufacturing engineering roles
Read more
Engineering a Comeback: Returning to WorkAt ATA Recruitment, people are at the heart of everything we do. Our mission to bridge the skills gap goes beyond simply matching CVs to vacancies, it’s about helping skilled professionals reconnect with their careers and giving employers access to the expertise they need to thrive.Recently, we were proud to support Matt Berry, an experienced Building Services and Fabrication Engineer as he returned to work after a long period away due to illness. His journey shows how the right recruitment partnership can help individuals rebuild their confidence and re-enter an evolving industry.From Setback to ComebackAfter more than 25 years working in healthcare and leisure engineering, life took an unexpected turn when Matt was diagnosed with cancer in 2019. Following treatment and a stem cell transplant, he thankfully made a full recovery and was ready to get back to work, but returning after six years away wasn’t easy.“Being out of work for six years was daunting. I worried about whether my skills and knowledge would still be relevant and whether I would be able to settle back into a professional routine again. Confidence was a big challenge – not just proving myself to an employer but also proving to myself that I could do it again.”His experience is one shared by many talented professionals who, after a career break, wonder if there’s still a place for them in an industry moving at speed.Personalised Support That Makes the DifferenceThat’s where our consultant, Jon Paryazani, stepped in. By taking time to understand not just Matt's skills but also his career goals and personal circumstances, Jon was able to provide a recruitment experience built on trust and reassurance.“Jon and the team at ATA were fantastic. They took the time to understand my situation and what I was looking for and reassured me that my background and skills were still very valuable. They kept me updated throughout the process, which made it far less stressful and they gave me the confidence to approach interviews knowing I had strong support behind me.”Practical support, such as interview preparation and regular communication, played a key role in helping him feel ready.“After such a long time away, it really settled my nerves to go into the process with clear guidance and practice. Having regular check-ins meant I never felt on my own.”Finding the Right Role at the Right BusinessWith ATA’s support, Matt secured a position at Oscar Mayer, a leading manufacturer known for its supportive and welcoming culture, an ideal environment for his return to work.“Oscar Mayer stood out as a welcoming, professional company that offered not just a good role but also the right culture. The opportunity to join a busy, 24/7 manufacturing company on a days-only basis, with a supportive and welcoming team really appealed to me.”A Message for Others Ready to ReturnFor anyone considering a return to work or a career change, Matt's advice is simple:“I’d absolutely recommend ATA Recruitment. They listened, supported and guided me every step of the way. For anyone nervous about making a change or returning to work after time away, ATA can give you the confidence and direction to find the right role.”Our Commitment to People and ProgressStories like this embody our mission at ATA Recruitment, bridging the skills gap by unlocking the potential of experienced professionals and connecting them with businesses that value their expertise. Whether you’re an Engineer ready to return or an employer seeking hard-to-find talent, we’re here to provide solutions that drive careers and strengthen the UK engineering and manufacturing workforce.Looking for your next opportunity after a career break?Take a look at our live vacancies or upload your CV and we’ll connect you with one of our expert consultants, who’ll guide you towards the right next role and help you feel confident about your future.
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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
Read more
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.
Read more