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
Software Controls Engineer
£45 - 55 per hour
Wigan
Software Controls Engineer 3-6 month contract £45.00 – £55.00 p/h DOE (Outside IR35) Liverpool Wigan St Helens Warrington Bolton Automation / PLC / Siemens TIA Portal / Rockwell / Allen-Bradley I am currently recruiting on behalf of a well-established UK manufacturer operating within a fast-paced production environment. They are seeking an experienced Software Controls Engineer to support an ongoing automation upgrade programme on a short-term contract basis. For this position, you will be required to carry out the following duties: Develop and modify PLC software using Siemens TIA Portal and/or Rockwell Studio 5000 across live production systems Support the commissioning and integration of new automated equipment into existing production lines Assist with FAT and SAT testing, including execution, sign-off and documentation Support integration between PLCs, HMIs, sensors and third-party systems Create and maintain commissioning documentation including I/O lists, FDS, SDS and test records Collaborate closely with Project Engineers, Electrical Engineers and site Operations teams to minimise downtime and deliver on programme The successful contractor will have the following attributes: Strong hands-on experience with PLC programming and fault-finding in live industrial environments Proven background in Siemens TIA Portal and/or Rockwell Studio 5000 Experience with SCADA or HMI platforms during commissioning and testing Exposure to servo drives, variable speed drives and motion control systems Familiarity with safety systems including Pilz or Sick safety PLCs Knowledge of PackML or industry-standard machine state models advantageous Food, beverage or FMCG sector experience beneficial but not essential The Benefits of This Position: Opportunity to work on a varied and technically interesting automation programme Exposure to modern controls architecture within an established manufacturing environment Outside IR35 contract 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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Electrical Fitter
£30000 - 33000 per year Early Finish Fridays
Bradford
Electrical Fitter / Electrical Technician Salary: £30,000 – £33,000 Hours: Monday–Thursday (8-5), Friday 8:00am–2:30pm Location: Bradford An established and growing engineering business is seeking an Electrical Fitter to join its experienced team. This role offers the opportunity to work on the build of bespoke equipment within a supportive environment, where you will receive hands-on training and development from highly experienced engineers. Key Responsibilities: Electrical fitting from engineering drawings Building and wiring control panels and circuit boards Working with motors, drives and associated components Supporting the assembly of equipment where required Requirements: Ability to read and interpret electrical diagrams Experience with panel wiring or circuit boards A practical, hands-on approach and strong work ethic Desirable: Experience within a manufacturing or machinery environment Exposure to electrical design or programming The business offers a stable and supportive working environment, with a strong focus on employee development and long-term progression as the company continues to grow. Benefits: Competitive salary up to £33,000 Early finish every Friday Ongoing training and development Long-term progression opportunities If you are an Electrical Fitter looking for a stable role with development opportunities, please apply with your CV. 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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Technical Sales Engineer - Engineering
£40000 - 45000 per year - £5,000 car allowance - 23 days holiday + bank holidays (with annual increases) - Matched pension s
Leeds
Technical Sales Engineer North of England | Remote £40,000 – £45,000 basic salary £5,000 car allowance Fully remote role All travel expenses covered Comprehensive company benefits package Clear progression within a fast‑growing engineering business Reference: TSEN A rapidly expanding engineering manufacturer is seeking a driven and capable Technical Sales Engineer to support continued growth across the North of England. This is an excellent opportunity to join a well‑established business with a strong reputation for delivering high‑quality engineered solutions into the wastewater, biowaste, and industrial processing sectors. The role offers a high level of autonomy, exposure to major customers and projects, and the chance to play a key part in expanding an already successful regional territory. The Opportunity As a Technical Sales Engineer, you will be responsible for developing business across the North, working closely with utilities, Tier 1 contractors, and industrial clients. You’ll represent a specialist product portfolio including screw conveyors, screens, compactors, silos, and materials‑handling systems widely used in wastewater treatment and industrial process environments. This position suits an individual who combines strong technical understanding with commercial awareness and enjoys building long‑term customer relationships. What You’ll Be Doing As the regional Technical Sales Engineer, you will: Generate new business opportunities across the North of England Manage and grow relationships with water utilities, Tier 1 contractors, and industrial customers Attend site visits, technical discussions, and industry exhibitions Interpret specifications and propose effective engineered solutions Support pre‑contract technical discussions and product selection Work closely with internal design, project, and delivery teams to ensure smooth project handover What We’re Looking For To be successful in this role, you’ll bring: Proven experience in a Technical Sales Engineer, Applications Engineer, or similar role Strong technical aptitude, with the ability to understand engineering drawings and specifications Confidence engaging with engineering, operational, and commercial stakeholders Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship‑building skills A self‑motivated, structured approach to managing a regional territory Experience within wastewater, process engineering, or materials‑handling equipment would be highly advantageous. Package & Benefits £40,000 – £45,000 basic salary £5,000 car allowance 23 days holiday + bank holidays (with annual increases) Matched pension scheme (4%) Full product and systems training Fully remote role covering the North of England Long‑term progression opportunities within a growing engineering organisation If you’re a Technical Sales Engineer looking for a role where you can learn, grow, and make a real impact in a specialist engineering business, this is an opportunity not to be missed. 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
Sales Engineer - Engineering
£40000 - 45000 per year - £5,000 car allowance - Fully remote role - All travel expenses covered
Northampton
Technical Sales Engineer Midlands & South of England | Remote £40,000 – £45,000 basic salary £5,000 car allowance Fully remote role All travel expenses covered Comprehensive company benefits package Clear progression within a fast‑growing engineering business Reference: TSEM 249 An established and rapidly growing engineering manufacturer is looking to recruit an enthusiastic Technical Sales Engineer to support continued expansion across the Midlands and South of England. This is an excellent opportunity for a technically minded, commercially curious engineer who wants to build a long‑term career in technical sales within the wastewater and process engineering sectors. You’ll be joining a business with a strong UK presence, a highly regarded specialist product range, and an excellent reputation for engineering quality. The Opportunity As a Technical Sales Engineer, you will take ownership of a growing territory, working closely with utilities, contractors, and industrial customers to deliver engineered solutions. You’ll sell a specialist range of equipment including screw conveyors, screens, compactors, silos, and solids‑handling systems used in wastewater, biowaste, and industrial processing environments. This role offers real exposure to high‑value projects, autonomy in the field, and the chance to develop both your technical expertise and commercial skillset in a supportive, fast‑moving organisation. What You’ll Be Doing As the regional Technical Sales Engineer, you will: Develop new business across the Midlands and South of England Build long‑term relationships with water utilities, Tier 1 contractors, and industrial operators Attend site visits, technical meetings, and industry events Understand client challenges and propose practical, engineered solutions Review specifications and drawings to support equipment selection Work closely with internal design, projects, and operations teams to ensure smooth handover from sale to delivery What We’re Looking For This role would suit a motivated engineer with a strong technical foundation and a desire to build a successful sales career. You’ll ideally have: Experience in a Technical Sales Engineer, Applications Engineer, or similar technical role A good technical understanding and confidence reading engineering drawings Strong communication skills and the confidence to engage with customers on site A proactive, self‑driven approach with a genuine interest in engineering solutions The ambition to progress within a growing business Candidates with exposure to wastewater, process engineering, or materials handling equipment will be particularly well suited. Package & Benefits £40,000 – £45,000 basic salary £5,000 car allowance 23 days holiday + bank holidays (with incremental increases) Matched pension scheme (4%) Full product, systems, and technical training Fully remote role covering the Midlands & South of England Strong long‑term career progression opportunities If you’re a Technical Sales Engineer looking for a role where you can learn, grow, and make a real impact in a specialist engineering business, this is an opportunity not to be missed. 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
Proposals Engineer
£45000 - 55000 per year 25 days holiday + bank holidays - Hybrid working: 2 days from home - Life assurance - Company pensio
Coventry
Proposals Engineer Coventry (Hybrid – 2 days from home) Competitive salary: £45,000 – £55,000 25 days holiday + bank holidays Hybrid working: 2 days from home Life assurance Company pension contribution Career development opportunities in a global organisation About the Company We are a global leader in industrial process fluids and chemical management solutions, serving sectors such as automotive, aerospace, metalworking, and manufacturing. Operating in over 25 countries, we help major manufacturers improve productivity, reduce costs, and meet sustainability goals. Our solutions enhance performance in operations like metal cutting, forming, cleaning, and corrosion protection. We pride ourselves on technical expertise, a customer-first approach, and a commitment to continuous improvement. As a Proposals Engineer, you’ll be part of a collaborative, forward-thinking environment where your contributions are valued. We offer professional growth, hybrid working flexibility, and a strong focus on work-life balance. The Role We’re looking for a skilled Proposals Engineer to join our commercial and technical team. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys solving complex problems, working cross-functionally, and delivering high-quality technical proposals. Key Responsibilities As a Proposals Engineer, you’ll develop and deliver compelling technical and commercial proposals tailored to client requirements. Collaborate with Sales, Engineering, and Product teams to gather data and ensure proposal accuracy. Liaise with customers to clarify specifications and present solutions. Ensure proposals comply with internal standards and industry regulations. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of our product portfolio and market trends. What We’re Looking For Proven experience as a Proposals Engineer or in a similar technical role, ideally within manufacturing or industrial fluids. Strong communication and analytical skills. Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and proposal management tools. Engineering or technical qualification preferred. What We Offer Coventry (Hybrid – 2 days from home) Competitive salary: £45,000 – £55,000 25 days holiday + bank holidays Hybrid working: 2 days from home Life assurance Company pension contribution Career development opportunities in a global organisation 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 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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Mechanical Design Engineer
£37000 - 45000 per year - Pension Contribution - 12:30 Finish on Fridays - 25 days Holiday + BH - Bupa Health Cover
Corby
Mechanical Design Engineer Corby, Northamptonshire £37,000 - £45,000 Pension Contribution 12:30 Finish on Fridays 25 days Holiday + BH Bupa Health Cover About our client ATA Recruitment are working closely with a leading provider of innovative material handling solutions, specializing in the design and manufacture of bespoke conveyor systems. Their commitment to excellence and innovation has positioned them at the forefront of the industry to deliver high-quality products that meet the diverse needs of their clients. Our client is dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring that their solutions are not only efficient but also adhere to the highest safety standards. Job Role As a Design Engineer, you will play a crucial role in designing, modelling, and drawing bespoke products and systems. You will ensure a right-first-time approach within short lead times and update existing solutions to maintain a consistent library of parts that adhere to the latest safety standards and design guidelines. You will also provide wider teams with the relevant information and documentation. Key Responsibilities for the Mechanical Design Engineer Role: 3D Modelling and 2D Drawing: Use Inventor to produce 3D models for components and assemblies, and 2D drawings for laser cutting, welding, and assembling a wide range of parts and products. Technical Documentation: Prepare product manuals with technical details, engineering documentation such as spares lists and test reports. Product Development: Develop new products through research, testing, and validation. Collaboration: Work closely with production, purchasing, and other teams to ensure designs are fit for purpose and cost-effective. Customer Interaction: Attend customer sites when required to ensure design specifications are met. Qualifications and Skills needed for the Mechanical Design Engineer Role: Essential: Proficiency in AutoCAD (2D) and Inventor or similar software. Excellent communication skills and the ability to build internal relationships quickly. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Flexibility and a proactive, can-do attitude. Proficiency in Microsoft Office. Benefits for the Mechanical Design Engineer Role: £37,000 - £45,000 Pension Contribution 12:30 Finish on Fridays 25 days Holiday + BH Bupa Health Cover 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
Junior Electrical Design Engineer
£30000 - 35000 per year Pension + 25 Days Holiday + Bank Holidays + Professional Development
Droitwich
Junior Electrical Design Engineer Droitwich/ Birmingham £30,000 – £35,000 + Pension + 25 Days Holiday + Bank Holidays + Professional Development Ref: JED 014 ATA Recruitment are representing a long‑established, innovative engineering organisation specialising in the design, development and manufacture of advanced combustion, heating and control systems for industrial and commercial applications. This is a superb opportunity for a Junior Electrical Design Engineer to join a stable and highly respected engineering environment offering long‑term security, project diversity and genuine technical progression. The company continues to invest significantly in engineering capability, new product development and people—creating the ideal environment for a Junior Electrical Design Engineer who is motivated by continuous learning, technical challenge and the opportunity to grow. The Role – Junior Electrical Design Engineer As a Junior Electrical Design Engineer, you will play an integral role in delivering full lifecycle electrical design work across a wide range of engineered products and control systems. You will work closely with senior engineers to produce detailed electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, panel layouts and technical documentation used across customised heating and combustion equipment. Each project offers a unique challenge and the chance to contribute to improvements in safety, performance and efficiency. This position will allow a Junior Electrical Design Engineer to gain hands‑on experience, develop specialist skills and work on meaningful engineering projects from concept through to manufacture. Key responsibilities include: Producing electrical drawings, schematics and wiring diagrams using CAD software Supporting prototype build, testing and fault‑finding activities Collaborating with manufacturing, R&D, quality and project teams Participating in design reviews and contributing ideas for product improvement Ensuring all electrical designs comply with industry standards and safety requirements This role is ideal for a Junior Electrical Design Engineer who enjoys technically varied work, thrives in a collaborative engineering team and wants to see their ideas put into action. The Person A motivated Junior Electrical Design Engineer or Electrical Engineering graduate with a strong interest in design Experience with electrical design software Understanding of electrical components, circuits and control principles Able to contribute to bespoke designs from concept to final product Analytical, detail‑focused and enthusiastic about technical development The Benefits £30,000 – £35,000 depending on experience Company pension scheme 25 days holiday + bank holidays Ongoing professional development and training opportunities Opportunity to work on complex, technically interesting products used globally ATA Recruitment are working exclusively with this client and will be forming a shortlist starting today. Initial interviews will be conducted over the phone, and successful candidates will then be presented to our client with full recommendations. If you wish to be considered for this opportunity, please respond with your intention as we are looking to fill the role in the near future. You will then be contacted by one of our Recruitment Consultants, who can provide further details. Contact: Bav Patel Recruitment Consultant Bhavesh.patel@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
Mechanical Design Engineer
£45000 - 50000 per year Pension + 25 Days Holiday + Bank Holidays + Professional Development
Birmingham
Mechanical Design Engineer Birmingham £45,000 – £50,000 + Pension + 25 Days Holiday + Bank Holidays + Professional Development Ref: MDE 002 ATA Recruitment are representing an innovative and highly established engineering business that designs and manufactures special purpose machinery for global customers. This is a fantastic opportunity for a Mechanical Design Engineer to join a secure, reputable organisation offering long‑term career prospects, project variety and genuine technical challenge. The company continues to invest in engineering capability, R&D and people—making this an ideal environment for a Mechanical Design Engineer looking to grow, develop and make an impact. The Role – Mechanical Design Engineer As a Mechanical Design Engineer, you will be heavily involved in delivering full lifecycle mechanical design across bespoke machinery and automated equipment projects. Each machine is entirely custom‑built, giving you the chance to work on unique engineering challenges and take real ownership of your designs. Key responsibilities include: Producing 3D CAD models, assemblies and detailed manufacturing drawings Developing new concepts and engineering solutions for bespoke machinery Supporting engineering calculations and design validation activities Collaborating closely with manufacturing, projects, and controls teams Participating in design reviews and continuous improvement initiatives Ensuring solutions are reliable, cost‑effective and fit for customer applications This position is ideal for a Mechanical Design Engineer who thrives in a technically varied role and enjoys seeing their work progress from concept to completion. The Person Experienced Mechanical Design Engineer with background in machinery, automation, equipment or engineered products Proficient in 3D CAD (any major package) Strong understanding of engineering fundamentals and calculations Able to work on bespoke designs from concept through to manufacture Creative, analytical and motivated by technical challenge The Benefits £45,000 – £50,000 depending on experience Pension scheme 25 days holiday + bank holidays Clear professional development opportunities Join a secure, established engineering business with long-term prospects Work on complex, interesting machinery used worldwide 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: Bav 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
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