Automation Engineer

Enjoy a career, packaged with care, whilst helping protect food, people and the planet

We are a key global provider of sustainable packaging solutions. Were on a mission to make all packaging recyclable, reusable, or compostable. Every day, we ensure the hygiene and safety of food and drink for people around the world. We are Huhtamaki.

You could be part of our vision. Because its our talented people that make it happen. Our people on the shop floor producing innovative, sustainable products. Our people in our offices delivering excellence for our customers every day. Its every one of us working together.

We offer a place where you can feel safe, be supported, and make an impact so we can all focus on the future together.

Locally, we manufacture molded fibre packaging products primarily for the food industry and are continually improving our knowledge and skills to be a world leader in manufacturing. Continuous investment has seen an increased need for engineering development and support throughout the Lurgan site and therefore we are a challenging & rewarding company to work for.

Your Opportunity

Were currently looking for a Automation Engineer to join our dynamic engineering team who play a crucial role in our journey towards being the world leader in a global industry racing towards sustainable food packaging solution. In this position, you will be responsible for providing control and automation support to the site, both on new projects and for the existing plant.

You will report to Electrical & Automation Manager and be part of the local engineering team.

Where youll be

You will be located at our site in Dollingstown, Lurgan which is approximately 30 minutes travelling time from Belfast.

What youll be doing

Key responsibilities will be wide ranging and will include assisting the Senior Automation Engineers with the following:

• Configuring and developing software for a wide variety of industrial and manufacturing applications, understand what a Manufacturing execution system is
• Support the install, testing and commissioning of machines or modifications of same safely in a working, end user environment
• Monitor and support factory systems, supporting users with trouble shooting updates and training
• Fault finding, diagnosis and data analysis for machine control system faults
• Develop and maintain PLC, HMI SCADA programming for new and existing systems
• Taking ownership of tasks or projects to ensure a successful delivery, including continuous improvement projects
• Producing specifications and design documentation
• Maintaining high standards and being consistent throughout the design process
• Working as part of a team and being adaptable to a range of environments
• Operating within the requirements of Company ISO standards, promoting Quality, Environment and Health and Safety in all aspects of your role
• Perform system integration of electrical, mechanical and software components
• Other duties as required

What youll bring to the role

• Bachelors degree in Computer Science, Industrial Engineering, Automation,
• Electrical/Mechatronic Engineering or similar. Time-served candidates with a HND or HNC qualification (or equivalent) in Electrical/Mechatronic Engineering or similar, combined with solid engineering/manufacturing experience will also be considered.
• Hands-on experience working with MES platforms (e.g., AVEVA).
• Experience integrating MES with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and automation layers.
• Strong knowledge of SQL databases, data structures, and report generation.
• Knowledge of Beckhoff / Siemens PLCs and SCADA systems and how MES interacts with automation equipment.
• Hands-on experience with HMI/SCADA systems.
• Good knowledge of control systems, including PID tuning
• Understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., OPC UA, Ethercat, Profinet, Profibus, Modbus).
• Experience developing in .NET (C#) and scripting languages such as Python or VBA.
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes, including traceability, electronic work instructions, batch management, and production control.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills

Whilst not essential it would be advantageous to your application if you could also bring:-

• Strong understanding of EtherCAT, fieldbus communication, and integration of instrumentation in industrial environments
• Knowledge of Beckhoff TwinCAT2 and TwinCAT3, Siemens TIA Portal, .NET programming or Aveva System Platform
• Working experience of Siemens & Beckhoff PLC equipment and their associated SCADA software packages (WinCC / Intouch)
• Ability and confidence to discuss engineering issues with people across various levels and disciplines
• Familiar with AutoCAD or similar design software for creating electrical drawings
• Project management experience
• An understanding of the integration of OT networks with enterprise systems (ERP etc)
• Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams including production, maintenance and quality to identify opportunities for automation and process improvement.
• Understanding of data encryption and cyber security

We are seeking an enthusiastic, driven individual with proven communication & collaboration skills who will deliver, engage and influence at all levels within the Company and who has the ability to manage multiple priorities in a production driven environment.

What we offer in return

• The opportunity to work on projects across the business
• The chance to make a significant impact on the companys success
• A competitive salary, company pension scheme, sick pay scheme, bonus payments and employers for childcare scheme, company work wear, reward and recognition scheme, employee discount scheme and a subsidised canteen.

For the right candidate, this role represents a significant opportunity for collaborative team working, learning & development and career progression in a dynamic and exciting new environment.

Go ahead, apply today!

If this sounds like a good fit, then wed love to hear from you. If you are seeking a new challenge please apply online by visiting: .

To be shortlisted, candidates must ensure that they clearly state on their application form, how they meet the criteria outlined above. The closing date for all applications is 5pm on Friday, 22nd August 2025.

Join us. Help protect food, people and the planet. Enjoy a career, packaged with care.

Skills:
Problem Solving Communication Team working