Leading Automotive Recruitment
ATA Recruitment is a trusted and experienced automotive recruitment company delivering high-performing engineering and technical talent into the heart of the UK automotive sector. With more than 60 years of experience supporting the evolving needs of manufacturing, we understand the pace, precision, and quality demands unique to automotive.
Automotive is not just a sector, it’s a national engine of innovation and productivity. With over 182,000 people employed and £67 billion generated annually for the UK economy, the industry plays a vital role in global trade and technological advancement. The pressure to meet quality, sustainability, and safety expectations is intense, making the quality of recruitment a mission-critical factor.
At ATA, we are more than just recruiters, we are strategic partners. Whether you're a Tier 1 supplier needing a specialist Quality Engineer or an OEM looking for long-term leadership talent, we have the networks, industry insight, and recruitment frameworks to help you compete and grow.
ATA's Consultative Approach to Automotive Recruitment
Our success is built on a consultative approach. We don’t believe in generic CVs or keyword matches, we invest time in understanding your business, culture, and technical challenges. That includes site visits, process shadowing, market benchmarking, and feedback loops.
For our clients, this means less time wasted on misaligned candidates, and more focus on onboarding people who deliver from day one. For candidates, it means receiving opportunities that match their career goals, skillsets, and values.
Supporting Automotive Candidates
We provide automotive professionals with access to exclusive roles, career advice, and onboarding support. Many of our candidates return to us when they’re ready for their next challenge, a testament to the trust we build. Whether you’re seeking career progression or a new direction in automotive, we help you get there faster.
OUR AREAS OF EXPERTISE
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Permanent Recruitment
Maintenance Engineer
Maintenance Manager
Project Engineer
Programme Manager
Design Engineer
Continuous Improvement Engineer
Health and Safety
Quality Engineer
Production Engineer
NPI Engineer
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Contract Recruitment
Maintenance Engineer
Maintenance Team Leader
Project Engineer
Design Engineer
Continuous Improvement
Health and Safety
Quality Engineer
Quality Inspector
NPI Engineer
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Interim Recruitment
Project Manager
Programme Manager
Maintenance Manager
Engineering Manager
Plant Manager
Operations Manager
Engineering Director
Technical Director
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ATA Search
Engineering Manager
Operations Manager
Quality Manager
Production Manager
Plant Manager
General Manager
Engineering Director
Technical Director
Operations Director
Managing Director
Latest Jobs In Automotive
Maintenance Engineer Trainer
£42000 - 50000 per year Up to 18% total pension contribution (6% employee / 12% employer), life assurance, private healthcar
Derby
Maintenance Engineer Trainer, Derby, 42-50K (DOE), Days 07-15:15pm Package includes: Up to 18% total pension contribution (6% employee / 12% employer), life assurance, private healthcare, excellent company car scheme, 25 days holiday + 8 bank holidays About the company Toyota, the world’s largest automotive manufacturer, is recruiting a Maintenance Engineer Trainer to join its prestigious on-site Training Academy at the Burnaston plant. Home to the iconic Toyota Corolla—the world’s most popular vehicle—this state-of-the-art facility has been a cornerstone of the local community since the early 1990s. Today, over 2,000 skilled team members contribute to Toyota’s continued success, supported by one of the most advanced training environments in the automotive industry. As Toyota’s flagship European site, TMUK plays a critical role in global operations, contributing over £3 billion to the company’s £210 billion annual turnover. The Training Academy is internationally recognised for its commitment to developing top tier engineering talent, combining cutting-edge training methodologies with Toyota’s renowned manufacturing excellence. About the role Working within this world-class academy as a maintenance engineer trainer, you will support the growth and development of both apprentice and experienced maintenance engineers. The academy delivers training aligned to the needs of all five manufacturing shops—Press, Body, Paint, Plastics, and Assembly—ensuring engineers are equipped with the technical capability, mindset, and confidence required to support a highly automated, fast-paced production environment. About you To be considered for this maintenance engineer trainee position you should have/be the following: Previous experience working as a maintenance engineer/team leader or manager, ideally within a manufacturing environment. Multiskilled expertise across electrical, mechanical, PLC, and fluid power systems A genuine passion and interest in the development of others. Confidence to develop and deliver training material. Experience delivering coaching sessions and training to both apprentices and seasoned engineers (desirable). Strong communication skills and the ability to influence, inspire, and coach. Recognised level 3 engineering qualification (NVQ Or equivalent). Why join Toyota’s Training Academy? Work in a world-class training facility, recognised internationally for engineering development. Shape the careers of apprentices and experienced engineers, making a lasting impact. Develop your own career through exposure to cutting-edge technologies and continuous professional development. Join a collaborative, innovative, and highly skilled team within a globally respected organisation. Enjoy competitive benefits, job security, and the opportunity to work at the heart of a flagship European automotive site. If you feel like you are the right Maintenance Engineer trainer for this role and would like to hear more about, please press apply, call Ashton on 07814905283 or email your CV too ashton.kenney@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
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Maintenance Engineer
£50430 - 50430 per year Annual bonus, paid overtime, 18% total pension contribution (6% employee / 12% employer), life assur
Derby
Maintenance Engineer – £50,400 – Derby Benefits include: Annual bonus, paid overtime, 18% total pension contribution (6% employee / 12% employer), life assurance, private healthcare, excellent company car scheme, 25 days holiday + 8 bank holidays with the opportunity to earn an additional 39 holiday hours, and more. Shift Pattern: 3-shift rotation (Earlies, Lates, Nights / Days & Nights rotation) Why join this company? Our client is entering a major phase of growth as they prepare to launch a brand-new product in 2026. With significant investment planned across their Engineering and Maintenance functions, this is a rare opportunity to join one of the UK’s most advanced manufacturing sites at a time of major expansion. New product launch planned for 2026 – excellent long-term security & investment World-class training – Gain multi-skilled development including PLC programming Outstanding culture – High employee engagement and long service across the team Cutting-edge technology & continuous improvement mindset Trust & empowerment from day one About the company Based in Derbyshire, this is a flagship UK manufacturing plant operating to true world-class standards. The site employs over 2,000 people and is structured across five major production areas — offering a wide variety of engineering challenges which is sure to peak the interest of curious engineers. With a turnover in the billions and a reputation for innovation, the site is recognised internationally for its use of advanced automation, lean methodologies, and continuous improvement culture. About the role As a Maintenance Engineer, you’ll play a key role in ensuring equipment reliability across high-volume production lines. This is a hands-on role where you’ll be responsible for: Completing planned preventative maintenance (PPM) to minimise downtime Fault finding and problem-solving using mechanical, electrical and PLC diagnostic methods Driving improvements to machine reliability Supporting CI initiatives and project-based engineering work About you You’ll be the kind of Maintenance engineer who takes pride in doing a job properly and enjoys solving problems on the shop floor. Multiskilled with either mechanical or electrical bias Apprentice trained & NVQ Level 3 qualified Comfortable working shifts and supporting overtime when required The Benefits You’ll be joining a company that genuinely invests in its people. Whether you want to deepen your technical skills or work your way into senior roles, you’ll be given responsibility, autonomy and access to structured development pathways. Interested in joining our client as a maintenance engineer? Press apply, call Ashton on 07814 905283, or send your CV to ashton.kenney@ata-recruitment.co.uk ATA Recruitment specialises in Manufacturing, Infrastructure, Civil, Transportation and Engineering recruitment across permanent and contract roles. For more opportunities like this, 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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Bodywork Prepper
£38000 - 40000 per year
Daventry
Bodywork Prepper Location: Daventry Shift: Monday to Wednesday, 20:00–06:00 | Thursday, 20:00–05:00 Salary: £38,000 – £40,000 per annum Are you an experienced vehicle prepper, technician, or bodywork specialist who takes real pride in producing flawless results? We’re looking for a skilled professional to join a company with over 50 years of expertise in precision paintwork — trusted by Formula 1, Formula 3, GT racing, and classic restoration teams alike. This is a fantastic opportunity to work on some of the most iconic and prestigious vehicles in the world. If that sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you! Key Responsibilities: Prepare a range of materials including Fibreglass, Carbon Fibre, Aluminium, Steel, and Plastics. Carry out edge-to-edge filler work, ensuring smooth, seamless finishes. Work on high-end projects such as Porsche, Ferrari, Lotus, and Jaguar Replica refinishing and restorations. Undertake detailed race car restorations, including complex accident repairs (for example, reconstructing a 50-year-old race car wing). Prepare all surfaces for primer and topcoat applications to the highest standards. Essential Skills & Experience: Solid background in bodywork preparation across fibreglass, carbon fibre, aluminium, steel, and plastics. Skilled in edge-to-edge filler work with an eye for precision and quality. Previous experience in motorsport, automotive engineering, aerospace, or a similar high-performance environment. Exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to producing first-class results in a fast-paced setting. Benefits: Competitive salary with overtime available. The chance to work on rare and cutting-edge vehicles. 20 shifts per year plus bank holidays. If you’re passionate about working on high-end, detailed projects and have the skills to match, we want to hear from you. To apply: Contact Fred O'Reilly at Fred.oreilly@ata-recruitment.co.uk or call 07827 918324. Don’t miss this opportunity to join a team that works on some of the world’s most extraordinary vehicles. By applying you accept the terms of our Privacy Notice which can be found on our website. ATA Recruitment specialise in Technical and Electrical Engineering, 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. Please note: You must be eligible to live and work in the UK. Sponsorship is not available. 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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Vehicle Technician
£38000 - 40000 per year
Daventry
Vehicle Technician – Night Shift Location: Daventry Shift: Monday to Wednesday 20:00-06:00, Thursday 20:00 - 05:00 Salary: £38,000 - £40,000 per annum Are you a skilled vehicle prepper, technician, or bodywork specialist who takes pride in flawless results? We’re looking for an experienced professional to become part of a company with over 50 years of excellence in precision paintwork — trusted across Formula 1, Formula 3, GT racing, classic restorations, and more. This is your chance to work on some of the most iconic vehicles in the world, apply now if you think this opportunity is for you! Key Responsibilities: Prepare a variety of materials including Fibreglass, Carbon Fibre, Aluminium, Steel, and Plastics. Edge-to-edge filler work, ensuring seamless, high-quality repairs and restorations. Work on high-value projects such as Porsche, Ferrari, Lotus, and Jaguar Replica refinishing and restoration. Specialised race car restoration, including intricate accident repairs (e.g., recreating a 50-year-old race car wing). Ensuring surfaces are ready for primer and topcoat applications. Essential Skills & Experience: Proven experience in bodywork preparation, including fibreglass, carbon fibre, aluminium, steel, and plastics. Expertise in edge-to-edge filler work, achieving flawless, precise finishes. Experience in motorsport, automotive engineering, aerospace, or similar high-performance sectors is essential. High attention to detail and ability to deliver top-tier results in fast-paced environments. Benefits: Competitive salary with overtime opportunities. Opportunity to work on rare and state-of-the-art cars. 20 shifts + bank holidays. If you have the expertise and passion for working on high-end, intricate projects, we want to hear from you! Apply now by contacting Fred O'Reilly at Fred.oreilly@ata-recruitment.co.uk or call 07827918324. Don’t miss the chance to be part of a team that works on some of the world’s most prestigious vehicles. By applying you accept the terms of our Privacy Notice which can be found on our website. ATA Recruitment specialise in Technical and Electrical Engineering, 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 Engineer
£50480 - 50480 per year paid overtime, annual bonus, up to 18% pension, 33 days holiday
Derby
Maintenance engineer, £50,480, Derby, 3 shift pattern Package – (Put all the package details) Excellent benefits – Enjoy paid overtime, annual bonus, up to 18% pension, 33 days holiday, and discounted car finance. Why join? Be part of a team at the forefront of world-class automotive production! Cutting-edge facilities – Work at one of the UK’s leading automotive manufacturing plants. Major investment – Over £2.75 billion spent on technology and innovation since opening. Top-tier training – Our on-site training academy develops engineers into fully multiskilled professionals. Career growth – With 60+ internal promotions in the last two years, there’s real opportunity to progress. A respected employer – One of the largest employers in the East Midlands, renowned for quality, innovation, and employee support. Toyota Motor Manufacturing is a world-leading automotive company, recognised for its commitment to quality, innovation, and continuous improvement. Over the past three decades, TMUK has built more than five million vehicles. The company is widely recognised as a leader in the automotive sector and were pioneeres within hybrid vehicle technology, driving forward Toyota’s commitment to cleaner, more efficient mobility. TMUK operates two manufacturing plants (vehicle at Burniston, Derbyshire; engine at Deeside, North Wales) with a total investment of approximately £2.75 billion and an annual turnover was €2,224 million. They are now looking to add maintenance engineers to their growing term. About You? To be considered for a maintenance engineer position you should have/be the following: Previous experience working in a manufacturing or production environment, ideally high‑volume, within roles involving breakdowns, preventive maintenance, fault‑finding and production support. TMUK are happy to consider engineers who are both electrical and mechanical biased. Excellent problem‑solving skills, analytical mindset and ability to work under pressure to minimise downtime and disruption. Good communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to liaise across disciplines (Production, Engineering, Maintenance). Recognised level 3 engineering qualification About the role As a maintenance engineer you will be Maintaining a variety of PLC’s equipment which could include injection moulding machines, conveyors, robotics, Press houses, plus more. Further responsibilities include: Maintaining and servicing production equipment to ensure maximum efficiency, reliability, and Safety. Fault-finding and troubleshooting complex equipment issues to minimise downtime. Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) and routine inspections to ensure equipment reliability. Reactive and breakdown maintenance, responding quickly to unplanned equipment failures. Root cause analysis to prevent recurring issues and improve overall equipment performance. Supporting continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities to optimise equipment performance and reliability. Working safely and in compliance with all health & safety regulations, risk assessments, and company procedures. Collaborating with production and engineering teams to plan maintenance activities around manufacturing schedules. Keeping accurate records of maintenance activities, inspections, and repairs using the company’s maintenance management systems. Participating in continuous improvement networks, sharing best practices and contributing to efficiency and quality enhancements across the plant. If you are ready to take the next step in your engineering career and join a world-class manufacturing team as a maintenance engineer, we would love to hear from you. Please press apply, call Rio Justin on 0788081804 or email your cv to rio.justin@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
WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY
"In the past we have struggled to recruit for critical roles in our engineering team and over time have worked with a number of agencies unsuccessfully. The team at ATA have been very different, they have tried to deeply understand our business, spending time on the shop floor, meeting managers and members of the team, which has enabled them to really understand our culture, the nature of the roles and the required skills.
This means they only provide candidates aligned to our needs. They provide data and advice enabling us to position ourselves better in the market and give us feedback on the experiences of the candidates we interview and hire supporting retention. They have really considered how they advertise and invest to do this well.
2023 has been our best year for recruitment. ATA Recruitment now genuinely feel like part of our team, not a supplier and we now work exclusively with them for technical recruitment."
Dan Jones, Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK
"IMKA continually return to using ATA because of the professional manner and results that are achieved. The correct calibre candidates are always shortlisted, removing hours of time from exploratory interviews and ensuring that the selection and recruitment process is efficient and sustainable with the candidates provided.
When there is an assignment, ATA Search conducts a full and concise review of the role, understanding what individual skills / traits / behaviours are needed to make recruitment as smooth and efficient as possible. With their knowledge of the culture and scope of our business, ATA Search then creates a shortlist of candidates which meet the criteria of the role and are ready to fit / work straight away into the organisation.
IMKA will continue to work directly with ATA Search for this professional, cost effective and dynamic recruitment process."
Operations Director, IMKA Automotive Ltd