Engineer working on automated production line in a UK food manufacturing facility
Engineer working on automated production line in a UK food manufacturing facility

Why Engineers Should Consider Careers in Food and FMCG Manufacturing

ATA Recruitment

Why Engineers Are in Demand in the UK Food and FMCG Manufacturing Sectors

​The 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 Day

The 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 efficiency

  • Create sustainable packaging that reduces environmental impact

  • Improve food safety and shelf-life using advanced processing technology

In 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 Impact

Food 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 challenges

  • Supporting sustainable agriculture and distribution practices

  • Ensuring the safety and quality of products consumed globally

When 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 Skillset

In 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 Demand

The 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:

Role

Average Salary (UK, 2024)

Maintenance Engineer

£42,000 - £55,000

Project Engineer

£45,000 - £55,000

Process Engineer

£40,000 - £52,000

Engineering Manager

£55,000 - £75,000

5. Stay on the Right Side of Regulation

Food and drink manufacturing is highly regulated to ensure safety and traceability. Engineers are central to:

  • Designing processes that meet Food Standards Agency requirements

  • Implementing HACCP and ISO standards

  • Auditing systems for continuous compliance

This 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 Paths

There’s no one-size-fits-all career in FMCG and food engineering. Engineers can specialise in:

  • Maintenance

  • Research & Development (R&D)

  • Production and Automation

  • Quality Assurance

  • Health, Safety & Environment (HSE)

  • Supply Chain Optimisation

This diversity allows Engineers to pivot within the industry, gaining experience across different departments and technical challenges.

7. Drive the Sustainability Agenda

The food industry is under pressure to reduce environmental impact. Engineers are at the core of:

  • Cutting food waste

  • Improving energy efficiency

  • Designing greener packaging

In 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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