Special Purpose Machinery Recruitment Experts
ATA Recruitment is a specialist in design and projects recruitment for the special purpose machinery sector. We understand the bespoke nature of this industry, where machines are often tailor-made for high-precision applications across FMCG, Automotive, Aerospace, Logistics, and Construction sectors.
Companies in this field require unique solutions - and the same goes for their hiring strategy. That's why our recruitment process is built to be as custom and adaptable as the machinery our clients produce. With more than 60 years of recruitment experience, our consultants tailor every step to ensure we meet your exact needs for permanent and contract talent.
Flexible Recruitment for Project-Driven Businesses
We know your hiring needs shift based on project wins. That’s why we offer both permanent recruitment for core team building, and contract staffing to boost capacity for specific workloads. This ensures agility without compromising quality or delivery timelines.
OUR AREAS OF EXPERTISE
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Permanent Recruitment
Mechanical Design Engineer
Technical Author
CAD Draughtsman
Applications Engineer
Sales Engineer
Electrical Engineer
Controls Engineers
Project Engineer
Project Manager
Service Engineer
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Contract Recruitment
Mechanical Design Engineer
Technical Author
CAD Draughtsman
Applications Engineer
Electrical Engineer
Production Engineer
Design Manager
Controls Engineers
Project Engineer
Service Engineer
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Interim Recruitment
Project Manager
Maintenance Manager
Engineering Manager
Operations Manager
Design Manager
Operations Director
Engineering Director
Technical Director
Projects Director
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ATA Search
Engineering Manager
Operations Manager
Design Manager
Operations Director
Engineering Director
Technical Director
Projects Director
Sales Director
Managing Director
Latest Jobs In Special Purpose Machinery
Controls Engineer
£40000 - 60000 per year + £350/month car allowance or company car - 29 days holiday - Company pension contribution - Overtim
Bedford
PLC Controls Engineer Location: Bedford Salary: £40,000 - £60,000 per annum + £350/month car allowance or company car 29 days holiday Company pension contribution Overtime available Annual bonus Reference: BP 216 ATA Recruitment are working closely with a leading provider of industrial automation solutions, specialising in PLC and robot programming, commissioning, and production support. The company serves major automotive clients including Mercedes Benz, BMW, FFT, EBZ, and Dalian Auto. With a commitment to excellence, innovation, and employee development, striving to become a global benchmark in engineering services. Role Overview: We are seeking a skilled PLC Software Engineer to join our dynamic team. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing and commissioning complex automation projects, including PLC and HMI programming. This role involves both independent and team-based work, with travel required for customer equipment startups. Key Responsibilities for the PLC Controls Engineer role: Design HMI screens and develop PLC code Troubleshoot and support existing PLC software Communicate with customers to implement tailored solutions Load initial PLC software and support equipment startups Collaborate with teams on large-scale projects Technical Requirements for the PLC Controls Engineer role: Experience with Siemens TIA Portal or Rockwell ControlLogix Experience in automotive and robotics sectors Familiarity with Variable Frequency Drives Knowledge of ControlNet and EtherNet in industrial networks Ability to read schematic diagrams Understanding of IEC software standards Eplan P8 experience is a plus Benefits for the PLC Controls Engineer role Benefits: 29 days holiday Standard company pension contribution Overtime available at weekends Annual bonus (consistently awarded for 15 years) Company phone, laptop, and uniform ATA Recruitment are working exclusively with this client we will be conducting a short list starting today, we will conduct the 1st interview over the phone, and the successful candidates will then be forwarded to our client with our recommendation. 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 not-so-distant future, you will then be contacting by one of our Recruitment Consultant who will be able to provide more details. Contact: Bhav Patel Recruitment Consultant 07704543752 Bhavesh.patel@ata-recruitment.co.uk ATA Recruitment specialises in Manufacturing, Infrastructure, Civil, Transportation and general Engineering recruitment on both a permanent and contract basis – for more opportunities like this one, visit our website ATA is committed to creating a diverse workforce and is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation
Apply now
Field Service Engineer
£42000 - 43000 per year Vehicle + Bonus
West Yorkshire
Field Service Engineer (UK & International) £42K-£43K + Vehicle + Bonus + Expenses + 33 Days Holiday Based form Home (anywhere along the M62 corridor) with majority of time spent on customer sites. Are you a recent forces leaver looking for their first role in civvy street? Or perhaps you are an experienced service engineer or maintenance engineer looking for a new challenge? The Company: ATA Recruitment is working with a well established manufacturer of bespoke machinery. They install this machinery all over the world for blue chip clients in different industries form food & drink, aerospace, chemical and general manufacturing. They are breaking into new industries and developing new products and as a result are looking to expand their service team with an additional service engineer to cope with all these new customers. The Role: Working on customer sites across the UK and abroad, the service engineer will: Conduct planned and reactive maintenance across the complete product range Install and commission machinery Fault find on mechanical and electrical systems Travel and work away from homwe extensively Required Experience: The successful service engineer will have the following skills and experience: Mechanical or electrical NVQ level 3 Maintenance or Field Service experience on industrial machinery The flexibility to travel and work away from home in the UK and overseas This role could be of particular interest to ex-forces engineers looking for that first role as a civilian, or a site based maintenance engineer looking to get out into the field Benefits: The Service engineer can expect: Full product and industry training Multi-skilling Training on PLC’ s Really interesting and complex machinery to work on Overseas travel - see the world 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
Apply now
Electrical Design Engineer
£40000 - 50000 per year - 5% Pension Matched - 20 Days Hol + Bank Holidays - Birthday Holiday - 12pm Finish on Fridays
Walsall
Electrical Design Engineer Walsall, West Midlands £40,000 – £50,000 + Excellent Benefits 5% Pension Matched 20 Days Hol + Bank Holidays Birthday Holiday 12pm Finish on Fridays Reference: BP 215 ATA recruitment are looking for an Electrical Design Engineer to work on high-spec automation and control systems across a wide range of industries, this is a fantastic opportunity to join a forward-thinking engineering business that partners with leading OEMs across Europe. About the Role As an Electrical Design Engineer, you’ll be responsible for designing and developing electrical control systems used in machinery for sectors including medical, food processing, packaging, scientific equipment, and aerospace. You’ll work on full-cycle design projects, from concept through to production, in a collaborative and innovation-driven environment. Your responsibilities will include: Creating electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control panel layouts using CAD software Performing electrical calculations such as load analysis and component sizing Collaborating with production and project teams to ensure design accuracy and manufacturability Supporting continuous improvement and contributing to technical innovation What We’re Looking For To succeed as an Electrical Design Engineer, you’ll need: Proven experience in electrical design within manufacturing or automation Proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., AutoCAD, EPLAN) Strong understanding of control systems and compliance standards Excellent communication and problem-solving skills Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines What’s on Offer Salary: £40,000 – £50,000 depending on experience Pension: 5% matched contribution Insurance: UNUM Critical Illness Cover & Death in Service (1x Annual Salary) Leave: 20 days annual leave + bank holidays + 1 extra day for your birthday Hours: Compressed working week with early finish every Friday Culture: A supportive, innovative environment with a strong focus on employee development This is an ideal opportunity for an Electrical Design Engineer who wants to be part of a business that values precision, scalability, and continuous improvement. You’ll work in a modern facility with cutting-edge technology and be supported by a team that encourages growth and development. If you're a passionate Electrical Design Engineer ready to take the next step in your career, we’d love to hear from you. ATA Recruitment are working exclusively with this client we will be conducting a short list starting today, we will conduct the 1st interview over the phone and the successful candidates will then be forwarded to our client with our recommendation. 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 not-so-distant future, you will then be contacting by one of our Recruitment Consultant who will be able to provide more details. Contact: Bhav Patel Recruitment Consultant 07704543752 Bhavesh.patel@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
Apply now
Electrical Draughtsperson
£30000 - 35000 per year 25 days annual leave + bank holidays, pension scheme, career development support
West Bromwich
Electrical Draughtsperson Salary: £30,000 – £35,000 per annum Location: West Midlands Benefits: 25 days annual leave + bank holidays, pension scheme, career development support Reference: BP 214 About the Role An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Electrical Draughtsperson to join a specialist manufacturer operating within the HVAC and building services industry. This role is ideal for someone with a passion for electrical design and a desire to work on bespoke control systems that power energy-efficient solutions across commercial, retail, and industrial environments. As an Electrical Draughtsperson, you will be responsible for designing and developing control panels and electrical systems that support heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technologies. You’ll work closely with project managers and installation teams to deliver high-quality, compliant solutions tailored to client specifications. Key Responsibilities Create detailed electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and layout drawings using AutoCAD Electrical or similar software. Design control panels for HVAC systems, including motor control centres and building energy management systems (BEMS). Collaborate with mechanical engineers and clients to ensure seamless integration of electrical systems. Provide technical support during installation and commissioning phases. Ideal Candidate We’re looking for an Electrical Draughtsperson who brings: Electrical Engineering background. Strong knowledge of electrical safety standards and UK wiring regulations. Proficiency in AutoCAD Electrical or similar design tools. Excellent communication and problem-solving skills. Industry Focus You’ll be working in a fast-paced environment that serves: Retail & Commercial Buildings Data Centres Healthcare & Pharmaceutical Facilities Automotive & Aviation Infrastructure The company is known for its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and delivering high-performance electrical solutions. Why Apply? This is a fantastic opportunity for an Electrical Draughtsperson looking to grow within a supportive and forward-thinking team. You’ll be involved in diverse projects, gain exposure to cutting-edge technologies, and contribute to the development of energy-efficient systems that make a real impact. ATA Recruitment are working exclusively with this client we will be conducting a short list starting today, we will conduct the 1st interview over the phone and the successful candidates will then be forwarded to our client with our recommendation. 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 not-so-distant future, you will then be contacting by one of our Recruitment Consultant who will be able to provide more details. Contact: Bhav Patel Recruitment Consultant 07704543752 Bhavesh.patel@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
Apply now
Area Sales Manager
£50000 - 65000 per year Car/Car Allowance + Expenses + Pension + 22 Days Holiday + BH
Sheffield
Area Sales Manager – Valves & Flow Control Solutions Location: UK-wide (Home-based) Salary: £50,000 – £65,000 OTE + Car/Car Allowance + Expenses + Pension + 22 Days Holiday + BH Industry: Engineering – Valves, Steam Systems, and Process Control Reference: BP 213 About the Business With over 15 years of success in delivering valve and flow control solutions, the business is now scaling up—backed by investment and outperforming its financial targets by over 40%. As the first external Area Sales Manager, you’ll be at the forefront of this growth, shaping strategy, building relationships, and unlocking new markets.Operating within a specialist group of companies, this engineering firm provides bespoke valve solutions to some of the UK’s most critical sectors. Their product range includes: Steam traps Pressure reducing valves Control valves Safety valves Steam meters These products are essential to energy efficiency, safety, and process control across industries such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, food production, and power generation. With a turnover of £5 million and a lean, agile team of 30 professionals, the company is expanding into new sectors including oil & gas and advanced process industries. You’ll be joining a business that values innovation, customer service, and technical excellence. Your Role as Area Sales Manager This is a consultative, solution-led sales role where you’ll manage a mix of existing accounts and warm legacy clients, while proactively developing new business across the UK. You’ll be supported by a skilled internal proposals team and technical engineers, allowing you to focus on strategic growth and client engagement. As Area Sales Manager, you’ll: Deliver annual sales targets Manage a portfolio of 30–35 clients and identify new opportunities across industrial hotspots. Conduct site visits, assess client needs, and deliver tailored valve and steam system solutions. Collaborate with internal teams and senior leadership to shape strategy and customer experience. Help build the sales team over time, with potential to step into a leadership role. What Makes You the Ideal Area Sales Manager Proven experience in technical sales—ideally in valves, steam systems, or process engineering. Strong commercial acumen and a consultative approach to selling. Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills. A proactive mindset—part hunter, part farmer—with the drive to build something meaningful. Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel Why This Area Sales Manager Role Stands Out ✅ First hire in a growing sales team – shape the role and future structure ✅ High-performing business – exceeding margins and expanding into new sectors ✅ Diverse client base – from NHS hospitals to pharmaceutical plants ✅ Supportive leadership – direct access to decision-makers and strategic input ✅ Real progression – opportunity to step into a leadership role as the team grows ATA Recruitment are working exclusively with this client we will be conducting a short list starting today, we will conduct the 1st interview over the phone and the successful candidates will then be forwarded to our client with our recommendation. 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 not-so-distant future, you will then be contacting by one of our Recruitment Consultant who will be able to provide more details. Contact: Bhav Patel Recruitment Consultant 07704543752 Bhavesh.patel@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
Apply now
Area Sales Manager
£50000 - 65000 per year Car/Car Allowance + Expenses + Pension + 22 Days Holiday + BH
Birmingham
Area Sales Manager – Valves & Flow Control Solutions Location: UK-wide (Home-based) Salary: £50,000 – £65,000 OTE + Car/Car Allowance + Expenses + Pension + 22 Days Holiday + BH Industry: Engineering – Valves, Steam Systems, and Process Control Reference: BP 212 About the Business With over 15 years of success in delivering valve and flow control solutions, the business is now scaling up—backed by investment and outperforming its financial targets by over 40%. As the first external Area Sales Manager, you’ll be at the forefront of this growth, shaping strategy, building relationships, and unlocking new markets.Operating within a specialist group of companies, this engineering firm provides bespoke valve solutions to some of the UK’s most critical sectors. Their product range includes: Steam traps Pressure reducing valves Control valves Safety valves Steam meters These products are essential to energy efficiency, safety, and process control across industries such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, food production, and power generation. With a turnover of £5 million and a lean, agile team of 30 professionals, the company is expanding into new sectors including oil & gas and advanced process industries. You’ll be joining a business that values innovation, customer service, and technical excellence. Your Role as Area Sales Manager This is a consultative, solution-led sales role where you’ll manage a mix of existing accounts and warm legacy clients, while proactively developing new business across the UK. You’ll be supported by a skilled internal proposals team and technical engineers, allowing you to focus on strategic growth and client engagement. As Area Sales Manager, you’ll: Deliver annual sales targets Manage a portfolio of 30–35 clients and identify new opportunities across industrial hotspots. Conduct site visits, assess client needs, and deliver tailored valve and steam system solutions. Collaborate with internal teams and senior leadership to shape strategy and customer experience. Help build the sales team over time, with potential to step into a leadership role. What Makes You the Ideal Area Sales Manager Proven experience in technical sales—ideally in valves, steam systems, or process engineering. Strong commercial acumen and a consultative approach to selling. Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills. A proactive mindset—part hunter, part farmer—with the drive to build something meaningful. Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel Why This Area Sales Manager Role Stands Out ✅ First hire in a growing sales team – shape the role and future structure ✅ High-performing business – exceeding margins and expanding into new sectors ✅ Diverse client base – from NHS hospitals to pharmaceutical plants ✅ Supportive leadership – direct access to decision-makers and strategic input ✅ Real progression – opportunity to step into a leadership role as the team grows ATA Recruitment are working exclusively with this client we will be conducting a short list starting today, we will conduct the 1st interview over the phone and the successful candidates will then be forwarded to our client with our recommendation. 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 not-so-distant future, you will then be contacting by one of our Recruitment Consultant who will be able to provide more details. Contact: Bhav Patel Recruitment Consultant 07704543752 Bhavesh.patel@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
Apply now
Contracts / Project Manager
£48 - 48 per hour
West Yorkshire
** Contracts / Project Manager ** West Yorkshire 3-month contract £47.50p/h (Outside IR35) Capital Equipment / Manufacturing / Process Engineering / Project Management My client is a manufacturer of industrial capital equipment who require an experienced Contracts Project Manager to support the business on an interim basis. This is an initial 3-month contract with potential of extension. For the position of Contracts / Project Manager, you will be required to conduct the following daily duties: • Review and analyse technical drawings and documentation • Work through extensive communication trails to build strong cases • Collaborate closely with the CEO and Commercial Director on case strategy • Ensure a methodical, detail-focused approach to documentation and process • Provide commercial insight and guidance on contract issues The successful Contracts / Project Manager will need to have the following attributes: Experience working withing manufacturing and process engineering environments Commercially minded with strong contractual awareness Comfortable working on complex legal/contractual matters with customers Strong communicator and confident engaging with senior stakeholders The benefits of this position: • Work with a highly reputable industrial equipment manufacturer • Hybrid working • Outside IR35 – Limited company suitable 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
Service Administrator
£25000 - 30000 per year Pension
West Yorkshire
Service Administrator Salary: £25,000 – £30,000 (depending on experience) Location: Huddersfield We are looking for a proactive and detail-oriented Service Administrator to join of our our clients who operate in the engineering industry. This is an excellent opportunity to play a key role in supporting sales growth and ensuring outstanding service for our clients. Purpose of the Role: To provide support and assistance to the Aftermarket Team, helping to drive additional sales growth through effective administration, communication, and follow-up. Key Responsibilities: Aftermarket Administration Quote and process spare parts orders using the ERP system. Liaise with clients, suppliers, and internal teams to manage Aftermarket orders. Ensure customer purchase orders are entered accurately into the ERP system (DEC Gestion). Procure all parts and services through the company ERP system. Work with the Materials Controller to ensure compliant shipment and delivery to the end user. Close out sales orders with Finance following dispatch and delivery. Manage logs of outgoing quotes, PPMs, and upgrades, ensuring timely follow-up. Input and monitor the Aftermarket chase-up report. Commercial Administration Deliver a high standard of customer service across all activities. Maximise departmental growth by following up on all quotes in a professional and timely manner. General Provide administrative support to the wider team. Keep up to date with system developments and share expertise. Maintain strong working relationships with colleagues across the business. Contribute to continuous improvement of processes and ways of working. Ensure compliance with company policies, health & safety regulations, and equal opportunity practices. Person Specification: Essential Experience working in an office environment. Strong organisational and administrative skills. Effective communication skills, both written and verbal. Computer literate with Microsoft Office and other software packages. Professional telephone manner. High level of accuracy and attention to detail. Basic numeracy and literacy skills. Proven track record of achieving targets. Desirable Relevant qualification in Business Studies/Administration. Experience working with an ERP system. Awareness of financial targets. Additional Qualities: Team player with a flexible approach. Able to adapt to business needs. Proactive, reliable, and committed to delivering excellent customer service. If you are a business administrator and are interested in the vacancy, then please contact me via email andrew.bairstow@ata-recruitment.co.uk to discuss the role in further detail 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
Apply now
WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY
"ATA Recruitment exceeded our expectations in delivering exceptional service and swift results in finding the perfect candidates for SPIRAC Ltd. Their efficiency and commitment to understanding our requirements were impressive, ensuring a seamless and timely recruitment process. Their expertise and dedication are commendable, and we are grateful for their invaluable contributions to building our team."
General Manager, Spirac
"Gudel Lineartec UK Ltd have dealt with the team at ATA Recruitment for more than 5 years, and they have helped us fill numerous technical vacancies with high quality candidates. We find them both professional and attentive, with a good understanding of our business and personnel requirements."
Managing Director, Gudel Lineartec UK Ltd