Recruiting Forces Leavers
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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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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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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Multi-Skilled Maintenance Engineer £52,000-£56,000 + Bonus + Paid OT + Contributory Pension Scheme Based near Preston Shifts: 12 hours days and nights Do you want to in a large engineering department with excellent prospects to progress into more senior roles? This company promotes from within, and maintenance engineers here have moved into supervisory roles, controls engineering roles, project management, and reliability roles. There is a huge amount of positive change happening on site and this is a great time to join the business. The Company: A global FMCG giant that produces instantly recognisable brands. This site benefits from a huge amount of investment every year, on new plant and machinery, plant upgrades, automation projects and the skills development of its engineering department. Due to a department re-structure they are looking to increase the team sizes with an additional maintenance engineer on shift The Role: As a multi-skilled maintenance engineer, you’ll will work within a large team on shift of highly skilled maintenance engineers. You will conduct planned and reactive maintenance across the site, and you will look at engineering out repetitive faults and looking for the root cause of the problem Electrically you will be working on single and 3 phase systems, AC/DC drives, invertors, relays and PLC’s Mechanically there are motors, bearings, conveyors, pneumatics and compressors Required Experience: The multi-skilled maintenance engineer will be NVQ 3 qualified in electrical or mechanical engineering and must have electrical maintenance experience The ideal candidate will come from a fast pace automated manufacturing environment You must have strong communication skills and be happy working in a team environment What’s in it for you? The Salary is very competitive and linked to your skills and experience so there is the opportunity to increase that further Psid OT The shift pattern allows you to get a long weekend off every other week Investment in the site and in your development Prospects to develop your career into more senior roles Bonus scheme To Apply: Interviews can be arranged immediately so apply by following the online instructions or send a CV to Andrew.bairstow@ata-recruitment.co.uk ATA Recruitment specialises in Manufacturing, Infrastructure, Civil, Transportation and general Engineering recruitment on both a permanent and contract basis – for more opportunities like this one, visit our website. By applying you accept the terms of our Privacy Notice which can be found on our website. ATA is committed to creating a diverse workforce and is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation
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Maintenance Engineer – £47,000 + Overtime – Burton-on-Trent Shift Pattern: Continental – 4 on 4 off (4 days, 4 off, 4 nights, 4 off) Shift Hours: 06:00 – 18:00 / 18:00 – 06:00 A large-scale automated distribution centre in Burton-on-Trent is seeking an electrically biased maintenance engineer to join its engineering team on a continental shift pattern, offering a base salary of £47,000 with overtime paid at 1.5x (and 2.0x after midnight), generous holidays, a structured training programme, and the opportunity to work hands-on with high-tech material handling equipment in a modern, customer-focused environment. About the Role As a maintenance engineer, you’ll provide both proactive and reactive engineering support across an advanced, fully automated site. The facility runs state-of-the-art systems including conveyors, cranes, shuttles, and strapping machinery. Key Responsibilities: Execute planned preventative maintenance (PPM) tasks, including quarterly strip-downs Respond to breakdowns and carry out effective fault-finding and repairs Work across mechanical (bearings, belts, shafts, pneumatics) and electrical (sensors, switches, relays, panels) systems Use a tablet-based CMMS to track jobs and log work Maintain high levels of communication with the team and the customer via radio, phone, and email Contribute to improving engineering uptime and customer service What We’re Looking For This position would suit a well-rounded maintenance engineer with strong electrical skills and a proactive mindset. Candidate Essentials: Level 3 qualification in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering (with electrical modules if mechanically biased) Confident electrical fault-finding with the ability to read schematics Previous experience in an automated or fast-paced industrial setting Good communication and teamwork skills Eagerness to adapt and support a continuous improvement culture Why Apply? This is a rare opportunity for a maintenance engineer to work in a structured, well-invested site where you’ll receive full site-specific training, enjoy long-term job stability, and be part of a professional and friendly engineering team. With excellent equipment, strong leadership, and real career pathways, this role offers the perfect environment for a committed maintenance engineer to thrive. faisal.ahmedy@ata-recruitment.co.uk 07788 365715 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, £46,000 - £53,000, Hucknall Package includes; with 1.5x paid overtime and an incentivising bonus scheme. 25 days of holiday plus your birthday and tools and toolbox provided, alongside standard pension contribution, life assurance and a highly rated health scheme 3 on 3 off Days and nights rotation About the client ATA are currently supporting a tier 1 Supplier for the aerospace industry, who are looking to add 2 maintenance engineers to their team. The business who are directly funded by 2 of the biggest aerospace OEMs in the country, offer a laser focus quality of service, providing specialist coating to a range of components used within the industry. The business is going through a significant growth period with 2024 seeing them have a great year, with a 23% increase in turnover and the opening of a new site. This is a great opportunity to join a large engineering team of 37 for a business that has a fantastic culture. What you’ll be doing As a maintenance engineer you will be responsible for maintaining a range of PLC controlled machinery, specifically set up for the process on this site. Further responsibilities include: Conducting Planned preventive maintenance (Working from the of the Idhammar CMMS) Reacting to breakdowns in a quick and timely manner. Involved in project work for OEMs Completing on root cause and continuous improvement Project work including equipment upgrade & machine installation What the client is looking for To become a maintenance engineer with our client, you will need to be able to handle all that comes within a world class process environment. You will need adopt a fix right first-time mentality, a mindset for continuous improvement and an aptitude for working proactively. Multiskilled experience with either mechanical or electrical bias. Any manufacturing or fast paced environment. Apprentice trained & NVQ level 3 qualified. Happy to work on a shift rotation & complete overtime when required. Benefits on offer As a maintenance engineer with our client, you would be eligible for: Extensive training budget, aimed at producing high-level engineers. For candidates with a passion for leadership, routes for progressive are available, as the client prefer to promote internally for higher-level positions rather than hiring externally. Good culture despite a large team. Varying personalities on site of different strengths, of all sexes and backgrounds. Client is not afraid to move on people with sour attitudes if they are a growing issue within the company. If you think you are the right maintenance engineer for this market leading tier 1 supply, please press apply or directly email me a copy of your CV to faisal.ahmedy@ata-recruitment.co.uk or contact Faisal on 07788 365 715 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, £46,000 - £53,000, Hucknall Package includes; with 1.5x paid overtime and an incentivising bonus scheme. 25 days of holiday plus your birthday and tools and toolbox provided, alongside standard pension contribution, life assurance and a highly rated health scheme 3 on 3 off Days and nights rotation About the client ATA are currently supporting a tier 1 Supplier for the aerospace industry, who are looking to add 2 maintenance engineers to their team. The business who are directly funded by 2 of the biggest aerospace OEMs in the country, offer a laser focus quality of service, providing specialist coating to a range of components used within the industry. The business is going through a significant growth period with 2024 seeing them have a great year, with a 23% increase in turnover and the opening of a new site. This is a great opportunity to join a large engineering team of 37 for a business that has a fantastic culture. What you’ll be doing As a maintenance engineer you will be responsible for maintaining a range of PLC controlled machinery, specifically set up for the process on this site. Further responsibilities include: Conducting Planned preventive maintenance (Working from the of the Idhammar CMMS) Reacting to breakdowns in a quick and timely manner. Involved in project work for OEMs Completing on root cause and continuous improvement Project work including equipment upgrade & machine installation What the client is looking for To become a maintenance engineer with our client, you will need to be able to handle all that comes within a world class process environment. You will need adopt a fix right first-time mentality, a mindset for continuous improvement and an aptitude for working proactively. Multiskilled experience with either mechanical or electrical bias. Any manufacturing or fast paced environment. Apprentice trained & NVQ level 3 qualified. Happy to work on a shift rotation & complete overtime when required. Benefits on offer As a maintenance engineer with our client, you would be eligible for: Extensive training budget, aimed at producing high-level engineers. For candidates with a passion for leadership, routes for progressive are available, as the client prefer to promote internally for higher-level positions rather than hiring externally. Good culture despite a large team. Varying personalities on site of different strengths, of all sexes and backgrounds. Client is not afraid to move on people with sour attitudes if they are a growing issue within the company. If you think you are the right maintenance engineer for this market leading tier 1 supply, please press apply or directly email me a copy of your CV to faisal.ahmedy@ata-recruitment.co.uk or contact me on 07788365715 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 – £51,000 + Overtime – Hinckley Shift Pattern: Double Days (06:00–14:00 / 14:00–22:00) Location: Hinckley, Leicestershire We’re looking for an experienced maintenance engineer to join a highly respected and well-established manufacturing business based in Hinckley. With nearly a century of history and a recent wave of investment into both equipment and people, this is a fantastic opportunity to join a team that values real engineering and team spirit. The role offers a £51,000 basic salary, generous overtime rates (1.3x weekdays, 1.5x Saturdays, 2x Sundays), 25 days holiday plus bank holidays, a pension scheme, flexible working with time off in lieu, and full induction with ongoing OEM training. About the Role As a maintenance engineer, you will be responsible for maintaining a broad range of machinery across a busy production environment. You’ll handle both electrical and mechanical tasks and work closely with a loyal team of hands-on engineers. Your Responsibilities: Attend machine breakdowns and respond efficiently Perform planned preventative maintenance (PPM) Fault-find on electrical and mechanical systems Work with 3-phase motors, relays, sensors, belts, bearings, drives, spindles, and rollers Conduct basic PLC input/output diagnostics Take part in team projects and machinery upgrades What We’re Looking For This role would suit a maintenance engineer who’s ready to contribute to a team-focused, long-standing engineering department where variety, pride, and ownership are part of daily life. You Should Have: A recognised Level 3+ engineering qualification (NVQ, BTEC, City & Guilds, HNC/HND) A strong multiskilled background (mechanical and/or electrical) The ability to diagnose and repair faults safely and effectively A collaborative approach and willingness to support others Previous experience as a maintenance engineer in a manufacturing environment Why Join? You’ll be joining a company that still retains a close-knit, family feel despite its impressive growth. You’ll benefit from hands-on learning, regular training with OEM suppliers, and an environment that encourages real career development. As a maintenance engineer, this role will allow you to refine your skills and enjoy long-term job satisfaction. If you’re a proactive maintenance engineer looking for a rewarding role in a thriving environment, this is the right opportunity for you. faisal.ahmedy@ata-recruitment.co.uk 07788 365715 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, Lutterworth, £53,137 + Overtime, Private Healthcare, Life Assurance, Subsidised Canteen + Other Great Benefits Panama Shift (Days and Nights) About the Company ATA are working with a global interlogistics provider who design, build, and maintain cutting-edge automation systems across a wide variety of sectors including FMCG, pharma, and food. With over 13 UK sites and growing, their Lutterworth facility is a high-performance operation supporting major well-known brands. Due to continued growth and internal progression, they’re now looking to recruit a skilled Maintenance Engineer to join their engineering team. Forces Leavers are welcomed with open arms and supported as they adapt into this role – if this is relevant to you or someone you know, get in touch and we can walk you through the journeys of Ex-Forces members who have jumped onboard and thrived in this role. About the Role As a Maintenance Engineer, you’ll be responsible for maintaining and improving a variety of high-speed automated systems across the site, including palletisers, auto stores, conveyors, and robots. The work is fast paced, varied, and hands-on, with opportunities to get involved in both PPM and project work. As a maintenance engineer on this site, you will be expected to: Carry out planned and reactive maintenance both electrically and mechanically Fault finding using multimeters and basic PLC work Work on a range of components including motors, relays, sensors, shafts, belts, and drives Support site-wide continuous improvement work About You: To be successful as a maintenance engineer in this role, you must have: An electrical or mechanical Level 3 Strong fault-finding skills Passion for engineering Willingness to learn and develop – training is a huge focus The Benefits This is an excellent opportunity to join a business that genuinely believes in promoting from within and investing in its people. With structured internal and external training available, this is a perfect environment for an engineer who wants to grow technically and take the next step in their career within automation equipment. The chosen maintenance engineer will be rewarded with: £53,137 Great overtime rates (1.5x weekdays, 2x Sundays) Private healthcare (with option to add family and partners) Life assurance 25 days holiday + bank holidays Free onsite facilities: subsidised canteen, showers, pool table, etc. If you want to hear more about becoming a Maintenance Engineer at this cutting-edge automation site, then please press apply or drop me an email at zac.polnyj@ata-recruitment.co.uk ATA is committed to creating a diverse workforce and is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation
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Maintenance Team Leader - £57,000 - Profit-Related Bonus - Private Healthcare - 7% Matched Pension – Other Great Benefits Panama Days and Nights (2 Weeks of Days, 2 Weeks of Nights) About the company ATA Recruitment is working with one of the largest manufacturers in the nation to find a motivated and driven maintenance team leader to lead a team in a company with a rich history which remains strong today and developing, highlighted in the company values seen throughout the many sites spread across the country. With a turnover of more than £1.2bn, the chosen maintenance engineer will join a successful and secure business while working in a solid team unit of experienced maintenance engineers from a variety of backgrounds to maintain the site. This role offers fantastic benefits and an opportunity to let your leadership skills shine while working within a fast-paced and a team-focused atmosphere. About the role As a maintenance team leader in this role, you will be maintaining a range of electrical components such as sensors, e-stops, motors and relays, as well as mechanical components such as belts, bearings, pneumatics and hydraulics. As an engineer, you will be expected to: React to breakdowns. Planned Preventative Maintenance. Electrical and Mechanical fault finding. PLC Knowledge. Replace and repair electrical components. Replace mechanical components. As maintenance team leader, you will be expected to: Walk the lines. Mentor Engineers. Manage Downtime. Liaise with production. Support asset care engineers. Lead your team to success. About you To be considered for this maintenance team leader role you should be/have the following: Confident and a team player. Must be strong electrically Be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment. Be happy to work days and nights. You should hold a recognised level 3 (or above) engineer qualification city and guilds, NVQ, BTEC, HND, HNC. The benefits This role offers the chosen maintenance team leader an exciting and fast-paced job with stand-out benefits, and with fantastic training provided by the company who support their engineers with improvement, such as financially rewarding engineers whose skills have improved. This company is known for its strong values which are visible from the beginning of the manufacturing process all the way to the final product, resulting in happy, experienced and motivated teams of people alongside a successful, secure and expanding company. Apply now and be part of a team shaping the future of FMCG. 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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Trainee Maintenance Engineer 39100 + OT+ healthcare + Bonus + Great Training+ Other Benefits Location: Birmingham Shift: 4 days on, 4 days off - 5am-5pm The company A leading manufacturer in the FMCG industry. As a Trainee 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 Trainee maintenance engineer to join the team. As a Trainee maintenance engineer, you will be responsible for ensuring that our production equipment and facilities are 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. You will be the technical specialist in your area of operation. you will rectify simple mechanical faults to machinery, plant and equipment ensuring all food safety and hygiene procedures are maintained. You will ensure all planned maintenance, asset care and remedial work is completed and logged as per process confirmations, as well as manage SOP’s and training plans on technical competences. The role will manage area specifics; liaise with the team leaders and Maintenance teams to ensure all machinery is operating at its full potential. Progression in this role could lead into becoming part of our Engineering team as a Maintenance Engineer. • Organising setting up and monitoring machinery. • Rectify mechanical faults to machinery, plant and equipment, carry out alterations where required. • Lead process improvements and CI improvements. • Complete and update tasks as per process confirmation. • Assist to install plant and equipment when required. • Use computer aided maintenance management system as and when required. Requirements of a Trainee Maintenance Engineer 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 Trainee Maintenance OT Great Training 10% Pension Bonus scheme +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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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.
ATA Recruitment at the CTP Employment Fair: Supporting Forces Leavers and Closing the UK Skills GapWe recently attended the CTP Employment Fair in Lincoln, further strengthening our commitment to supporting ex forces professionals and helping UK manufacturers address the growing engineering skills gap.As demand for technical talent continues to rise across the manufacturing sector, finding skilled, reliable and adaptable individuals has become a top priority for employers. One of the most overlooked talent pools is the Ex-Forces community, highly trained professionals with transferable skills that are directly applicable to engineering and industrial environments. Why ATA Recruitment Attended the CTP Employment FairDirector Chris Addison and Recruitment Specialist Lewis Gardner represented ATA Recruitment at the event. It was an important opportunity to engage directly with service leavers and learn more about their aspirations as they transition into civilian careers.Chris Addison shared:"Our mission at ATA Recruitment is to help bridge the growing skills gap in UK manufacturing. As part of this plan, we are encouraging our customers to recruit from outside of their current marketplace. Taking on forces leavers is a fantastic option. As the number of our customers willing to do so continues to grow, we made the decision to attend the CTP event in Lincoln. We met so many great forces Engineers with strong qualifications and excellent transferable skills, many of which we will be passing on to the relevant customers."Recognising the Value of Ex Forces TalentThe event provided a chance to meet a range of former service personnel, individuals who possess not only technical expertise but also qualities such as resilience, discipline and leadership. These attributes are highly sought after across sectors including General Engineering, Automotive, Aerospace, Food and FMCG, Warehouse Automation and Special Purpose Machinery.Lewis Gardner commented:"Meeting so many talented individuals who have served in the Armed Forces was a privilege. The technical skills and mindset they bring can add real value to businesses across the UK."A Long Term Vision for Forces RecruitmentMilitary service develops a skillset that is perfectly aligned with the needs of UK industry, from problem solving and process discipline to hands on engineering capability. At ATA Recruitment, we aim to act as the bridge between forces leavers and employers who can benefit from their experience.We provide personalised support to help service leavers identify roles that match their skills and career goals, while also educating clients on the benefits of hiring from this talent pool. The result is a more diverse, skilled and future ready workforce for the sectors that keep the UK economy moving.Let’s Build the Future TogetherIf you are an employer seeking to address long term skills shortages, or a forces leaver preparing for your next career step, ATA Recruitment is here to support you. We are passionate about creating opportunities that benefit both individuals and businesses, and we believe connecting ex forces professionals with industry is a vital part of that vision. Get in touch today by filling out the form below to discover how we can help you strengthen your team or successfully transition into a new career.
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Why Engineers Are in Demand in the UK Food and FMCG Manufacturing SectorsThe food and drink industry is the UK’s largestmanufacturing sector. For Engineers exploring new opportunities, jobs in food and FMCG offer more than just career stability, they offer innovation, impact, and real-world problem-solving at scale. Right now, maintenance engineering opportunities in this sector are especially strong, with employers investing heavily in skilled talent to keep operations efficient, safe, and future-ready. At ATA Recruitment, maintenance engineering is at the core of what we do, we place skilled professionals into key roles with some of the biggest and most respected employers in the UK food industry.Here’s why a career in food or FMCG manufacturing might be the ideal move for ambitious Engineers.1. Cutting-Edge Innovation Every DayThe food and FMCG industries are fast-paced environments where innovation is essential. Maintenance Engineers play a key role in keeping this innovation running smoothly, by ensuring equipment reliability, reducing downtime, and supporting the integration of new technologies. Engineers in these sectors are helping to:Develop automated production lines to improve efficiencyCreate sustainable packaging that reduces environmental impactImprove food safety and shelf-life using advanced processing technologyIn 2024, the UK government has outlined a £2 billion plan using engineering biology to revolutionise food and sustainability efforts, highlighting the demand for engineering talent that can drive progress. 2. Make a Global ImpactFood is a universal need, and UK manufacturers export more than £23 billion in food and drink products annually. Engineers in the sector contribute to:Tackling food security and nutrition challengesSupporting sustainable agriculture and distribution practicesEnsuring the safety and quality of products consumed globallyWhen you work in food or FMCG engineering, you’re not just keeping production lines moving, you’re helping feed the world.3. Work Across Disciplines and Expand Your SkillsetIn food manufacturing, Engineers collaborate with professionals in:Biology and chemistry (for product development and food preservation)Technology and data analytics (for process control and predictive maintenance)Supply chain and logistics (for efficiency improvements)This cross-functional exposure makes Engineer jobs in food and FMCG perfect for those who enjoy learning and adapting.4. Career Stability and Strong DemandThe food industry is essential and that means it's more resistant to economic shifts. It currently employs over 440,000 people in the UK, with engineering talent in high demand. Maintenance Engineers are especially sought after for their ability to keep production environments running efficiently around the clock.According to our Insights Report 2024, typical salaries for Engineers in the sector are:RoleAverage Salary (UK, 2024)Maintenance Engineer£42,000 - £55,000Project Engineer£45,000 - £55,000Process Engineer£40,000 - £52,000Engineering Manager£55,000 - £75,0005. Stay on the Right Side of RegulationFood and drink manufacturing is highly regulated to ensure safety and traceability. Engineers are central to:Designing processes that meet Food Standards Agency requirementsImplementing HACCP and ISO standardsAuditing systems for continuous complianceThis adds a level of rigour and responsibility to engineering roles, ideal for those who thrive under clear frameworks.6. Explore a Variety of Engineering Career PathsThere’s no one-size-fits-all career in FMCG and food engineering. Engineers can specialise in:MaintenanceResearch & Development (R&D)Production and AutomationQuality AssuranceHealth, Safety & Environment (HSE)Supply Chain OptimisationThis diversity allows Engineers to pivot within the industry, gaining experience across different departments and technical challenges.7. Drive the Sustainability AgendaThe food industry is under pressure to reduce environmental impact. Engineers are at the core of:Cutting food wasteImproving energy efficiencyDesigning greener packagingIn 2024, the industry committed to cutting food waste by 20% and slashing energy consumption across production lines. Engineers with sustainability knowledge are in high demand.Ready to Explore Engineer Jobs in Food or FMCG?If you're an Engineer looking to apply your skills in a future-focused, globally relevant, and innovation-driven industry, food and FMCG manufacturing is a strong career move. Maintenance Engineers, in particular, are in high demand to keep production lines efficient, safe, and running smoothly.At ATA Recruitment, we connect Engineers with top employers in the UK’s thriving food and FMCG sectors. Whether you're seeking a permanent, executive, or contract role, we can help you find the right fit.Search our latest Engineer jobs in food and FMCG now, or speak to one of our specialist consultants.
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Navigating Uncertainty: How Contract Recruitment Supports Engineering and Manufacturing BusinessesThe 2025 increase in employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) has created a new layer of financial complexity for UK employers, especially in sectors like engineering and manufacturing, where skilled labour is critical and payroll forms a large part of operational costs. The Financial Pressure of Higher Employer NICsWith the employer NIC rate rising from 13.8% to 15% and the threshold reduced from £9,100 to £5,000, companies face significantly higher costs for permanent hires. For example, employing an Engineer earning the average UK salary of £36,036 now costs businesses an additional £940 per year in NICs, up from £3,715 to £4,655.This sharp increase in employment costs is pushing many businesses to re-evaluate their workforce strategy. Some are slowing down recruitment or even reducing headcount to maintain profitability in an increasingly competitive market.While the Employment Allowance has increased from £5,000 to £10,500, this may offer only limited relief, particularly for larger engineering and manufacturing firms with significant staffing requirements. Contract Recruitment: A Strategic Workforce SolutionIn response to these changes, contract recruitment has become an increasingly valuable strategy for businesses looking to manage labour costs without sacrificing productivity or project delivery.Key Benefits of Contract Recruitment for Engineering and ManufacturingScalable Workforce SolutionsScale your workforce up or down based on project needs, without the long-term financial commitment of permanent employees.Access to Specialist SkillsEngage expert contractors for niche roles or time-bound projects, ensuring high-quality work without the overhead of a full-time hire.Reduced Employment CostsAvoid additional expenses tied to permanent staff, such as benefits, pensions, training, and NIC obligations.This flexible approach helps companies stay agile, maintain project continuity, and manage risk during economic uncertainty. How to Implement Contract Recruitment EffectivelyTo unlock the full benefits of a contract workforce in engineering and manufacturing, businesses should:1. Partner with a Specialist Recruitment AgencyWork with a firm that understands your industry and has access to a pre-vetted pool of engineering and manufacturing contractors.2. Align Workforce Planning with Project GoalsAssess your project pipeline and identify where short-term expertise or extra capacity is needed.3. Stay Compliant with Employment RegulationsEnsure contracts, IR35 status, and all legal obligations are properly managed to avoid potential pitfalls. Need Help with Contract Recruitment?At ATA Recruitment, we’re committed to addressing the skills shortage in engineering and manufacturing. Contract recruitment is just one of the many tailored solutions we offer to help bridge that gap, offering access to a wide network of qualified professionals ready to hit the ground running.Learn more on our Contract Recruitment Services page to discover how we can support your workforce planning.
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Helping Ex-Forces Transition into Engineering CareersAs increasing numbers of individuals leave the Armed Forces, many are seeking meaningful civilian careers that align with their skills, discipline and work ethic. At ATA Recruitment, Lewis Gardner has become a trusted specialist in ex-Forces recruitment, helping service leavers transition into engineering and technical roles across the UK.Why Are More People Leaving the Armed Forces?There has been a significant rise in the number of people leaving the Armed Forces in recent years. Many cite the need for a better work-life balance, the desire to live closer to home, and a benefits package that no longer reflects today’s financial demands. Some service leavers are commuting up to 6.5 hours, while others face long hours and unpaid overtime due to staffing shortages. These challenges are driving a growing number to explore civilian jobs after the military.Supporting Career Transitions for Ex-Forces CandidatesLewis Gardner has placed numerous ex-military candidates into long-term roles, with around 90% of placements in automation and manufacturing environments. His passion for supporting veterans started with a single conversation:“After speaking with my first Forces leaver, I found the whole process genuinely rewarding. These candidates often feel uncertain about what ‘Civvy Street’ holds for them. But once you start consulting and guiding them through their career transition, it becomes clear just how much value they can bring to engineering and technical teams.”What Makes Ex-Forces Candidates Ideal for Engineering and Manufacturing?Ex-Forces personnel possess a unique combination of technical skills, reliability, and resilience. But Lewis is keen to avoid generalisations.“Not every Forces leaver is the same. What they often share, though, is a realistic mindset, a willingness to learn, and incredible discipline. Many are more than happy to travel if the role is right. They’re also excellent listeners — a trait highly valued in any engineering team.”Success Stories: Building Stronger Teams with Veteran TalentOne notable success has been the placement of four Forces leavers at Frasers Group, where the Shift Manager is also ex-Forces.“There was an instant connection,” Lewis explains. “Shared values and experience made it easy for the new hires to integrate, and the employer quickly saw the benefits.”Overcoming Barriers to Civilian EmploymentJob interviews in the civilian world can be a daunting change for military professionals. Lewis ensures every candidate is fully prepared with coaching, mock interviews, and personalised support.“We focus on building confidence and helping them present their skills in a way that resonates with hiring managers. It’s about showing them how to translate their experience into commercial value.”Why Supporting Forces Leavers MattersThis work is more than just recruitment. For Lewis, it’s personal.“There are more Forces leavers than ever before, and they need someone who truly understands their journey. I see my role as a consultant, not just a recruiter. It's about being someone they can trust — someone who’s there to open doors and reduce the stress of a big life change.”Thanks to word-of-mouth recommendations, more and more ex-military candidates are finding their way to ATA Recruitment, confident that their careers are in expert hands.Looking to Build or Begin a Career in Engineering?Whether you're an ex-Forces professional seeking your next opportunity or an employer looking to strengthen your technical team, ATA Recruitment is here to help. We're Bridging The Skills Gap in UK engineering by connecting skilled, disciplined service leavers with employers in manufacturing, automation, and beyond.If you’re leaving the military and want support transitioning into a civilian engineering role or if you're hiring and want to explore the value ex-Forces talent can bring, get in touch with Lewis Gardner at lewis.gardner@ata-recruitment.co.uk, call 07583 676 804, or fill in the form below.
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Maintenance Recruitment in Q1 2025: Market Trends and InsightsHaving seen an extremely buoyant Q4 for the maintenance market, with many customers wanting to use up recruitment budgets before the end of the calendar year, we entered Q1 facing a certain level of economic uncertainty. Most quarters were cautious about what level of economic growth or retraction we might see, due to the pending increases in the rates of minimum and real living wages, National Insurance, as well as the ongoing challenges of inflation and the overall costs of running a business.January is normally a busy month from a recruitment perspective, with customers releasing an abundance of new roles and a fresh influx of candidates. Sadly, neither happened, with customer demand lower than expected and candidate flow continuing at a suppressed rate. Advert response in January was 21% down on the same month last year. However, despite this slow start, demand picked back up to normal levels through February and sustained through March. Many quarters were expecting a “redundancy market” in Q1, which would improve candidate availability. However, despite candidates who were out of work or being made redundant accounting for 29% of our placements, availability remained extremely low, as many candidates were passive and unwilling to move in the current market. Indeed, just 4% of candidates we placed moved for progression.As demand for good Engineers continues to outstrip supply, what are the latest trends we are seeing in the market? Of the Engineers placed:83% changed shift, indicating that many are still seeking a better work-life balance if they are going to change roles. 4 on 4 off (29%), days (22%), and double days (17%) proved most popular73% received a pay rise – many companies are still having to offer cash incentives to remain competitiveThe average pay rise was £7,800, which is nearly £1,000 higher than in H2 2024Whilst many companies continue to battle for talent with attractive packages, we continue our mission to “Bridge The Skills Gap” in UK manufacturing. There is already a skills shortage in the UK, which only continues to widen as many Engineers approach retirement age. We are encouraging our clients to consider how they address this issue, and we are pleased to report that many are taking single-skilled Engineers and offering training to make them multi-skilled. Also, and probably most pleasing, 10% of Engineers placed were forces leavers from the RAF and Navy. We continue to work with key customers on this strategy and hope to see this positive trend continue.Hiring the right Engineers is tougher than ever. With candidate availability at a low, the pressure to secure skilled talent is increasing across the industry.ATA can give you the edge. With exclusive access to a curated database of over 60,000 pre-interviewed Engineers, we connect you with top-tier talent ready to make an impact.As recruitment specialists in manufacturing and engineering, we partner with leading employers to offer market insight, benchmark packages, and shape talent strategies that work.By connecting the right people with the right opportunities, ATA is proud to be helping Bridge The Skills Gap across UK industry.Get in touch with Chris Addison at christian.addison@ata-recruitment.co.ukor fill out the form below to start the conversation.
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Industry 5.0: Why Employers Must Be Aware of the Human-Centric Shift The manufacturing and engineering sectors in the UK are in the midst of a significant transformation. In 2020, as businesses continued to make major operational adjustments to survive the Covid-19 pandemic, the dust settled on Industry 4.0 – defined by automation, smart systems, and digitalisation. A new chapter emerged: Industry 5.0. This evolution isn’t just about technology. It’s about people.For employers, this shift represented both a challenge and a powerful opportunity. Employers must better position themselves to attract top talent, boost innovation, and stay competitive in an increasingly values-driven market. From Smart Machines to Smarter CollaborationIndustry 4.0 revolutionised the shop floor. Robots, AI, and data analytics created hyper-efficient, automated environments. But Industry 5.0 changes the narrative: it’s not just about what machines can do – it's about how they work with humans. This phase places humans at the core, blending cutting-edge technologies with uniquely human traits like creativity, empathy, and critical thinking. It’s about enabling people to do more, not replacing them with machines. What Does This Mean for Employers? 1. Rethinking the Role of People in Production Human-machine collaboration will redefine job roles. While some manual tasks may be fading, new roles are emerging that require more technical skills – system thinking, innovation, and interpersonal intelligence. Implication: Employers must look beyond CVs when recruiting. Skills like adaptability, leadership, and problem-solving will be just as important as technical qualifications. 2. Recruiting for Resilience and Innovation Industry 5.0 demands resilient, agile teams capable of navigating complexity and change. It’s not just about filling vacancies; it’s about finding leaders who can shape and adapt to future-ready strategies. Implication: Executive recruitment needs to assess both hard and soft skills. At ATA Search, our psychometric assessments (powered by Thomas) help uncover the deeper capabilities of candidates, ensuring they align not just with the role, but with the organisation’s future vision. 3. Wellbeing and Culture Take Centre Stage As technology becomes more integrated, people will crave more meaningful, purpose-driven work. A human-centric industry places wellbeing, inclusivity, and values at the heart of its culture. Implication: Employers must create environments where people thrive. Leadership styles, communication, and emotional intelligence are no longer “nice to have” – they’re critical business tools. A New Kind of Leadership is Required In this new industrial era, employers need leaders who can: Embrace innovation without losing the human touch. Champion sustainability and long-term thinking. Foster cross-functional collaboration and lifelong learning. Whether you’re hiring a Production Director or a Head of Engineering, the leaders of tomorrow must combine technical excellence with emotional intelligence, cultural awareness, and strategic foresight. How We Help You Get There At ATA Search, we specialise in identifying and attracting executive talent in engineering and manufacturing. Through our deep industry knowledge and proven assessment tools, including psychometric profiling, we help employers build leadership teams that are not only capable of navigating today’s challenges but also shaping the future of Industry 5.0. The future of industry is human. Let us help you find the people who will lead it. Reach out to us today by filling out the form below.
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The ATA Recruitment Annual Contractor Charge Rates Report 2024 is available to downloadAs the demand for skilled professionals continues to rise, more businesses are turning to skilled contractors and temporary workers to support large-scale projects. With recruiting and retaining permanent employees still a challenge, flexible workforce solutions have become essential for business growth.In the UK, 850,000 vacancies remain unfilled, an improvement from 2023. However, the need for skilled engineers in the manufacturing and engineering sectors is critical for 2025.Covering the following disciplines, we have highlighted the average contractor charge rates across the UK as well as provided you with expert commentary from our specialist contract consultants:ManufacturingEngineeringInterim and Shared ServicesIf you are a contractor looking for a new assignment or a client looking to use a flexible skilled resource, then please get in touch.Download the reportGet in touchAs always, we hope the report provides you with the insight as to where your business currently sits in the market, as well as giving you some guidance on how to construct your talent strategy for 2025. If you have any questions or comments on any of the information covered in the report, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
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