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...
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
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
Find Out More
**Assembly Operative (Late Shift) ** Location: Skipton, Otley, Bingley - West Yorkshire Rate: £15.20 – £17.60 per hour DOE Shifts: Late Shift – 4 Days per Week Hours: 37.5 hrs/week + Overtime at 1.5x after 37.5 hrs The Role: Assembly Operative We’re looking for a hands-on, reliable Assembly Operative to join our manufacturing team on the late shift. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with engineering or manufacturing experience looking to contribute to a industrial products business. Key Responsibilities Assembling mechanical components Picking and packing parts for installation or delivery General warehouse duties including materials handling and organisation Work independently and take initiative with minimal supervision (late shift) Maintain high quality and safety standards on sit What You’ll Need FLT licence is essential NVQ Level 2/3 in a relevant field or proven hands-on assembly/welding experience Background in engineering/manufacturing Apprenticeship background preferred (if not highly experienced) Semi-skilled welding and/or mechanical assembly a bonus Motivated, dependable, and a team player I am looking to speak to talented Assembly Operatives with site installations experience, who are looking for a very rewarding and challenging contract position. For more information please contact Sam Martlew, Recruitment Specialist at ATA Recruitment. ATA Recruitment are specialists 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 Fitter/Panel Wirer** Greater Manchester Based Gross rate: £22.00 - £24.00p/h DOE Overtime: Saturdays & Sundays £33-£35p/h Outside IR35 Ltd. Co or PAYE (Umbrella) 3-month min. contract I am working with a key client in Greater Manchester who are looking for an experienced Electrical Fitter/Panel Wirer with site installation Engineering experience, to work on capital automated equipment in the workshop conducting overhaul and repair to like new and install at customer premises. You will be responsible for stripping, fault finding, fitting, assembly, and site install & commission. For this position of Electrical Fitter /Panel Wirer, you will require to conduct the following duties: Ability to read engineering drawings and schematics to tight tolerances in some instances and use hand tools Electrical - building of machinery and overhaul from an electrical perspective Power up – deal with any issues – fault find Set up inverter drives – program auxiliary equipment, go online to see what’s going on Run cables, terminate, Read schematics etc. Connect wiring to various components such as switches, circuit breakers, transformers, and other control devices within control panels. Working to high standards, ensuring health & safety and quality procedures are adhered The successful Electrical Fitter /Panel Wirer will need to have the following attributes: Electrical fitter/Panel Wirer experience A strong team player, professional and customer facing Ability to read complex engineering drawings / schematics etc Strong communication skills, with a keen eye for Health, Safety and Quality. Apprentice trained NVQ Level 3 The benefits of this position: On-going work with likely extensions and further projects Growing company, good positive working environment and team Outside IR35 (Limited Co./ Umbrella/ PAYE) I am looking to speak to talented Electrical Fitters/Panel Wirer, with site installations experience, who are looking for a very rewarding and challenging contract position. For more information please contact Sam Martlew, Recruitment Specialist at ATA Recruitment. ATA Recruitment are specialists 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
Role: Production Team Leader Shift: Monday-Friday Days Salary: Up to £42,000 Location: South Hornchurch The Company Would you like to take advantage of numerous company benefits? Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment, with an appetite to lead your own team? Our client is a very large, internationally renowned food manufacturer! They supply their services to recognised entities such as Tesco, Waitrose, Morrisons, Wetherspoons etc. This company has invested millions in a new production line and milling equipment, and is looking to upscale that by investing millions again in another production line. Despite already being established, they are continually growing. They are looking for a motivated Production Team Leader to take advantage of what they have to offer! The Role As a Production Team Leader, your responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Ensuring the efficient and uninterrupted running of all production processes Identifying opportunities to improve operational efficiency and reduce health and safety risks Preparing and presenting weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly performance reports to the senior leadership team Managing a team of 17 to key performance indicators (KPIs) and aligning them with actual production data to identify trends and areas for improvement Driving initiatives to minimise on-site waste and maximise output quality and volume Empowering your team to perform to their best levels About You The ideal Production Team Leader will have the following: A recognised Production/Manufacturing/Process/ any relevant qualification Proven experience managing teams and adhering to KPIs An open attitude to working in a fast-paced environment A sound understanding of LEAN manufacturing principles Company Benefits The company also discloses numerous benefits for the role of Production Team Leader which include: Free food and drink in the company canteen, along with a select range of unreleased products you can try first! Medical cash plan including dental, eye tests etc. A strong budget dedicated solely for personalised on-site training, applied from your very first day A healthy company pension contribution Club membership with exclusive social activity perks including wine tasting, go-karting etc. 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
Job Title – Multi skilled Maintenance Engineer Multi skilled Maintenance Engineer Location – Bolton Salary - £47,000 (plus overtime @ 1.5 ) Shift – 6-2/8-4/2-10/4-12 2 weeks earlies/days, 2 weeks of lates The Company Our client is one the World’s largest warehouse logistics specialists. They are now looking for a multi skilled Maintenance Engineer on a brand-new site. They excel at providing fully automated sortation and distribution centres for a wide variety of industries, the business continues to expand thanks to a buoyant market. This is a brand-new site which they have invested 15 million in new machinery, so you will be working with some of the most state of the art machinery on the market! The Role You will be working with automated equipment all driven by PLC’s including conveyor systems, robotics systems, shuttles, A-frame, Auto baggers, Stackers, de-stackers, labellers, Vision systems, baggage systems. Your day-to-day responsibilities as a Multi skilled Maintenance engineer will include: The planned and reactive maintenance and service of all machines on site. Working as part of a maintenance engineering team. Mechanically you will mainly be replacing worn out parts on the conveyors which will include rollers, bearings, and pulleys. Electrical work will include reading through electrical schematics, utilizing electrical test equipment such as multi-meters and fault finding on panels. Mainly swapping both electrical and mechanical components like for like with the odd strip and rebuild project. The Candidate To be successful in your application as a multi skilled Maintenance Engineer you must have the following skills or attributes: Must have a recognised Electrical or Mechanical Qualification minimum level 3 . Must have previous experience working as a Maintenance Engineer. Must have good communication and interpersonal skills. The Benefits As a multi skilled maintenance Engineer you will expect: Fantastic security and progression opportunities Private health care with the option to upgrade for full family cover Very competitive salary and overtime rate 6% pension Contribution Company benefits to cover you and family. 25 days holiday plus 8 bank holidays. 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. 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
Multi Skilled (Mechanical Biased) Maintenance Engineer Based in Stanford-Le-Hope (Essex) Monday - Friday Day Shifts £40 Umbrella or £30.71ph plus Holiday Pay The business is now looking for a multi skilled Maintenance Engineer with a mechanical bias to support the internal team and to ensure downtime is to a minimum whilst maintaining standards of a variety of equipment. If you are looking for a new contract, then please contact Adil Shaikh on 07920 410 329 or email adil.shaikh@ata-recruitment.co.uk The day-to-day responsibilities of the Mechanical Maintenance Engineer will involve the following. Perform scheduled preventive maintenance (PPM) on automated equipment such as conveyors, packaging systems, and dimensioning units. Carry out regular inspections and service checks to ensure equipment is in optimal working condition. Clean and maintain machinery, including strip-downs, belt replacements, and lubrication. Change electrical components in live electrical panels (following safety protocols). The Mechanical Maintenance Engineer must possess the following skills and experience. Previous mechanical experience within a factory environment – this could be manufacturing or distribution sites. Mechanical engineering qualification Able to fault find and repair a wide range electrical and mechanical component The benefits of this Maintenance Engineer contract is the following. Established rolling 2 month rolling contract Monday to Friday day shifts Minimum of 40 hours per week available £40 Umbrella or £30.71ph PAYE To be considered for this role please either hit the 'Apply' button on this site or email your CV directly to adil.shaikh@ata-recruitment.co.uk I can also be contacted directly on 07920410329. I look forward to hearing from you! ATA Recruitment specialise in the recruitment of Engineers across the UK, 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! - You must be eligible to live and work within the UK. Sponsorship is not provided. 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 Manager – Automation (Outside IR35) Location: Leicestershire | Rate: £500 per day | Duration: 6 months Contract Type: Outside IR35 | Working Hours: Monday to Friday Job Overview: We are seeking an experienced Project Manager to manage an automation project in Leicestershire. This is a 6-month contract offering a daily rate of £500, outside IR35. You will lead the project from start to finish, ensuring successful delivery and stakeholder alignment. Key Responsibilities: Lead Projects: Manage project scope, budget, schedule, and resources to ensure timely and quality delivery. Team Leadership: Supervise and guide project managers and teams, ensuring effective collaboration. Stakeholder Engagement: Maintain clear communication with internal and external stakeholders. Work Package & Risk Management: Oversee work packages, manage risks, and ensure progress aligns with project goals. Reporting & Decision-Making: Provide regular updates to senior leadership and make key project decisions. Skills & Experience: Experience: Proven track record as a Senior Project Manager in automation or related sectors. Qualifications: Prince2 or equivalent, CSCS card required. Technical Knowledge: Experience in automation, civils, or industrial sectors. Leadership & Communication: Strong team leadership and stakeholder management skills. Budget & Schedule: Experience in managing project budgets and timelines effectively. To Apply: Click the 'Apply' button on this site or email your CV to suzanne.winton@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
Apply now
Multi Skilled (Mechanical Biased) Maintenance Engineer Based in Stanford-Le-Hope (Essex) Monday - Friday Day Shifts £34ph Outside IR35 The business is now looking for a multi skilled Maintenance Engineer with a mechanical bias to support the internal team and to ensure downtime is to a minimum whilst maintaining standards of a variety of equipment. If you are looking for a new contract, then please contact Adil Shaikh on 07920 410 329 or email adil.shaikh@ata-recruitment.co.uk The day-to-day responsibilities of the Mechanical Maintenance Engineer will involve the following. Perform scheduled preventive maintenance (PPM) on automated equipment such as conveyors, packaging systems, and dimensioning units. Carry out regular inspections and service checks to ensure equipment is in optimal working condition. Clean and maintain machinery, including strip-downs, belt replacements, and lubrication. Change electrical components in live electrical panels (following safety protocols). The Mechanical Maintenance Engineer must possess the following skills and experience. Previous mechanical experience within a factory environment – this could be manufacturing or distribution sites. Mechanical engineering qualification Able to fault find and repair a wide range electrical and mechanical component The benefits of this Maintenance Engineer contract is the following. Established rolling 2 month rolling contract Monday to Friday day shifts Minimum of 40 hours per week available Outside IR35 LTD To be considered for this role please either hit the 'Apply' button on this site or email your CV directly to adil.shaikh@ata-recruitment.co.uk I can also be contacted directly on 07920410329. I look forward to hearing from you! ATA Recruitment specialise in the recruitment of Engineers across the UK, 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! - You must be eligible to live and work within the UK. Sponsorship is not provided. 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 Technician – Exclusive Toyota Partnership Location: Deeside, North Wales Shift Pattern: Panama (12‑hour shifts – 7 days & 7 nights per month) Salary: £56,600 Basic (inclusive of shift allowance) + Annual Bonus Pension: Up to 12 % employer contribution Benefits: Private healthcare · Life assurance · Attractive car finance schemes · World‑class training & progression opportunities Why join Toyota? Global leader: Work inside the world’s largest automotive group, renowned for continuous improvement and cutting‑edge technology. Serious investment: £240 million recently injected into UK operations, securing long‑term growth and state‑of‑the‑art equipment. Skill acceleration: Structured training takes you from day‑one shadowing to true multi‑skilling across electrical, mechanical, PLC and fluid‑power disciplines. Your day‑to‑day impact As a Maintenance Technician, you’ll keep a highly automated production line running at peak efficiency: Diagnose, repair and optimise PLC‑controlled CNC machines, robotics and automated conveyor systems. Execute planned preventive maintenance and respond swiftly to breakdowns, minimising downtime. Collaborate with production and engineering teams to drive reliability and continuous‑improvement projects. Record accurate maintenance data and contribute to root‑cause analysis and future‑proofing initiatives. What you’ll bring Time‑served apprenticeship or NVQ Level 3 (or above) in an electrical or mechanical discipline. Proven experience maintaining high‑speed, automated manufacturing equipment. Confident fault‑finding on PLC‑controlled systems (Siemens, Mitsubishi, Omron or similar). A proactive, solutions‑focused mindset and the flexibility to thrive on a Panama shift rota. What’s in it for you? Total package worth well over £60k when pension and bonus are factored in. Up to 18 % pension contribution – among the best in UK manufacturing. Private healthcare, life assurance and exclusive employee car‑finance offers. Hands‑on responsibility from day one, plus a personal development plan tailored to your career goals. Ready to experience world‑class manufacturing up close and accelerate your career with Toyota? Apply now or call Jon Paryazani at ATA Recruitment on 07810 508 532 for a confidential chat, or send your cv to jon.paryazani@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
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 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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
Why Employers Should Prioritise AI Training to Aid Workforce Retention & DevelopmentA recent study by Corndel highlights a growing challenge: one-third of UK employees feel unprepared to use AI in their jobs within the next one to three years. Despite the widespread availability of AI training programmes, many employees remain untrained, creating a skills gap that employers must address.Key Findings:33% of employees feel unprepared for AI integration at work.97% of HR leaders claim AI training is available, but only 39% of employees report receiving it.54% of businesses lack an official AI strategy, according to Microsoft.Many organisations remain in the "experimentation phase" of AI adoption, with limited full-scale implementation.What This Means for Employers:Bridging the AI skills gap is critical – Employees need structured, role-specific training to feel confident using AI tools.Clear AI strategies and training programmes can improve retention – Workers who feel supported in their professional development are more likely to stay.AI education fosters internal career growth – Upskilling employees can help businesses develop talent from within, reducing the need for external hires.Open communication is essential – Encouraging employee feedback on AI implementation ensures better adoption and engagement.Companies that fail to act risk falling behind – AI is rapidly transforming industries, and organisations that do not invest in training may struggle with workforce inefficiencies.Why Invest in AI Training Now?Stronger workforce retention – Employees value employers who invest in their development.Increased productivity – Teams equipped with AI knowledge can work more efficiently.Competitive advantage – Businesses that embrace AI training will stay ahead in a fast-changing market.Cost savings – Developing internal talent reduces the need for expensive external recruitment. Ensure There Are No Training & Development Gaps in Your WorkforceAI is transforming the workplace, and businesses that fail to prioritise training risk falling behind. Ensuring employees are equipped with the right skills is essential for retention, productivity, and long-term success.At ATA Search, we understand the challenges leaders face in bridging the skills gap. By implementing clear training strategies and fostering a culture of continuous learning, managers can future-proof their teams and drive business growth.Is your workforce prepared for AI integration? Take action now to close skills gaps and invest in structured training programmes that empower your employees. Contact ATA Search to explore strategies that ensure your team is ready for the future.Reach out to us today by filling out the form below.
Read more