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
Senior Mechanical Design Engineer
£40000 - 55000 per year Flexible Working Hours + Rapidly Expanding Business
Nottinghamshire
Senior Mechanical Design Engineer Nottinghamshire Salary: £40,000 - £55,000 (DOE) 25 Days Holiday + Bank Holidays The company: Our client is a leading provider of mechanical engineering services in the area, supplying, designing an installing Bespoke Materials Handling Equipment and Special Purpose Machinery. Established in the area, they have built a strong reputation for delivering quality service to their clients nationwide in the FMCG, and Logistics industries. Their team designs and assembles a variety of products, including conveyor systems, robots, structural steel work, Crane Systems, and more. They pride themselves in a providing a high standard of craftsmanship and innovation, Working with multi-billion-pound business across the UK. The business has grown incredibly from a turnover £12 million a decade ago to in excess of £50 million today. They currently employ over 150 employees across the business, with around 10 engineers in the design team. As part of their continued growth they are looking to recruit two additional Senior Mechanical Design Engineers with immediate effect. The Role As a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer, you will be responsible for carrying all the design work for live projects the company are currently delivering. Your responsibilities will include: Producing 3D models for conveyor systems on SolidWorks Producing detailed 2D manufacturing drawings for components and parts required for conveyor systems. Creating 2D layout drawings to show how the company’s equipment will fit into the client’s site. Attending internal meetings to discuss project progress Carrying out calculations required for sizing motors, cylinders and other parts required for the conveyor systems. Attending site visits and consulting clients to understand project requirements. Taking feedback from both the manufacturing and installation teams during projects to make any changes to designs as required. The role will see you using a combination for SolidWorks and AutoCAD dependent on project. The Candidate To be successful in your application for this Senior Mechanical Design Engineer role you will need: Previous use of SolidWorks is preferred but the client will consider other CAD packages if you previous conveyor system design experience. A general understanding of engineering principles and the ability to problem solve. Experience with the design of conveyor systems Strong attention to detail. Able to work well to project deadlines. Excellent communication skills and the ability to work independently. The Benefits For this Senior Mechanical Design Engineer role the following benefits are on offer: Competitive salary package - £40k - £55k Depending on experience. Office-based role, with small friendly team Working hours of: 8:30am – 5pm (Mon-Friday) With option for flexible hours starting as early as 6:30am 25 days of annual leave + bank holidays A supportive and collaborative work environment Opportunities for professional development and career growth within an expanding team How to Apply: If you are a motivated and experienced Senior Mechanical Design Engineer looking to join a growing company, we want to hear from you! Please send your CV to Harjot Singh at harjot.singh@ata-recruitment.co.uk or give me a call on 0116 218 1666 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
Technical Sales Engineer
£45000 - 50000 per year - £5,000 car allowance - Remote working - Travel expenses covered - Company benefits package
Rugby
Technical Sales Engineer Southeast of England £45,000 – £50,000 basic salary £5,000 car allowance Remote working Travel expenses covered Company benefits package Excellent progression opportunities within a growing engineering business Reference: 240 ATA Recruitment are representing a rapidly growing engineering organisation as they look to appoint an ambitious and energetic Technical Sales Engineer to cover the Southeast of England in a fully remote capacity. This is a superb opportunity for a driven Technical Sales Engineer who enjoys winning new business, delivering technical solutions, and developing long‑term customer relationships within the wastewater and process engineering sectors. About the Technical Sales Engineer Role As a Technical Sales Engineer, you will be responsible for generating new business, growing existing accounts, and providing technical solutions to customers across utilities, Tier 1 contractors, and industrial processing sites. You’ll work with a specialist product range including shaftless screw conveyors, screens, silo systems, compactors, and materials-handling equipment used across wastewater, biowaste, and industrial processing. This Technical Sales Engineer position suits someone who is technically strong, commercially driven, and confident dealing with engineering decision‑makers on site and at management level. The Role – What You’ll Be Doing As the regional Technical Sales Engineer, your responsibilities will include: Identifying, contacting, and converting new customers across the Southeast. Managing and expanding relationships with major water utilities & Tier 1 contractors. Attending site visits, client meetings, and industry conventions. Providing technical solutions aligned to client specifications. Working closely with internal design and project teams to ensure seamless handover. What You’ll Need Proven experience as a Technical Sales Engineer or similar engineering sales role. Strong technical aptitude with the ability to understand engineering drawings. Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship‑building skills. A self‑starter with energy, drive, and the ability to build relationships quickly. Package & Benefits £45,000 – £50,000 base salary £5,000 car allowance 23 days holiday + bank holidays (annual increases) Matched pension (4%) Full product and systems training Fully remote covering the Southeast region If you’re a motivated Technical Sales Engineer ready to take ownership of a territory and grow your career in a rapidly expanding engineering sector, we want to hear from you. ATA Recruitment are working exclusively with this client we will be conducting a short list starting today, we will conduct the 1st interview over the phone and the successful candidates will then be forwarded to our client with our recommendation. If you wish to be considered for this opportunity then please respond with your intention as we are looking to fill this role in the not-so-distant future, you will then be contacting by one of our Recruitment Consultant who will be able to provide more details. Contact: Bhav Patel Recruitment Consultant 07704543752 Bhavesh.patel@ata-recruitment.co.uk ATA Recruitment specialises in Manufacturing, Infrastructure, Civil, Transportation and general Engineering recruitment on both a permanent and contract basis – for more opportunities like this one, visit our website. By applying you accept the terms of our Privacy Notice which can be found on our website ATA is committed to creating a diverse workforce and is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation
Apply now
Product Development Engineer
£40000 - 45000 per year Pension Contribution - 25 Days Holiday + Bank Holidays - Clear Career Progression & Professional De
Desborough
Product Development Engineer £40,000 – £45,000 + Pension Contribution 25 Days Holiday + Bank Holidays Clear Career Progression & Professional Development Location: Northamptonshire Reference: BP 239 ATA Recruitment are supporting a leading UK manufacturer of engineered machinery and fabricated products in their search for a Product Development Engineer. This is an exciting opportunity to join a forward‑thinking engineering team where you will play a key role in developing innovative products, improving existing designs, and helping to drive continued growth. This position offers clear progression, technical development, and the chance to see your designs move from concept through to manufacture and commissioning. The Role – Product Development Engineer As a Product Development Engineer, you will be responsible for delivering engineered design solutions across a wide range of mechanical, fabricated, and sheet‑metal‑based products. You will work closely with engineering, projects, manufacturing, and sales teams to ensure all designs are fit‑for‑purpose, compliant, and optimised for efficient manufacture. Key Responsibilities Carry out innovative product design using SolidWorks, producing accurate 3D models and detailed manufacturing drawings. Lead design improvements and continuous development of existing product lines. Produce technical documentation, including manuals, specifications, bills of materials (BOMs), and CE‑compliant engineering documents. Manage and maintain BOMs within the company ERP system. Ensure all designs adhere to engineering standards, quality expectations, regulatory requirements, and health and safety guidelines. Support the design review process and challenge existing methods to improve cost, manufacturability, and performance. Liaise closely with internal teams to ensure designs meet customer and operational requirements. About You You will be an ambitious and technically capable Product Development Engineer with a strong foundation in mechanical design. Experience & Skills Required for the Product Development Engineer role: Strong background in sheet metal and fabricated product design is essential. Knowledge of special‑purpose machinery design is advantageous. Understanding of electrical principles is beneficial. Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple design tasks simultaneously. Innovative thinker with excellent problem‑solving ability and a hands‑on approach. Why Apply? Join a business that invests heavily in career development and engineering innovation. Strong pipeline of new product development projects. Work across the full product lifecycle — concept, design, documentation, build support, and commissioning. Be part of a collaborative engineering team where your ideas will directly influence product performance and customer solutions. 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
Site Manager
£400 - 450 per day
London
Site Manager London 12-month contract (likely extension) £400 p/d – £450 p/d (Outside IR35) Airport / Conveyor Installation / M&E / Airside Pass Our client is a specialist engineering and projects contractor delivering multiple live airport projects. Due to continued project wins and increased workload, they are seeking an experienced Site Manager to support the delivery of conveyor installations, mechanical and electrical works, and associated temporary structures within a live airport environment. Key Responsibilities: Manage daily on-site activities across mechanical, electrical and minor structural works Supervise installation of conveyors and associated airport systems Coordinate supervisors, fitters, electricians and subcontractors on site Review, brief and control RAMS, permits to work and isolation procedures in line with Stansted Airport systems Plan and manage site logistics, access arrangements and scaffolding requirements Deliver toolbox talks, site briefings and daily progress updates Ensure full compliance with CDM regulations, HSE standards and airport safety procedures Requirements: Proven experience as a Site Manager with Airside Pass Strong background in mechanical and electrical installation projects Previous experience working within a live airport environment Confident managing RAMS, permits to work and isolation procedures Comfortable supervising mixed trades and contractor teams Flexible approach to working hours and site demands Reliable, organised and proactive Qualifications: Airside Pass (essential) SMSTS (essential) CSCS Black Card (preferred) IOSH or NEBOSH Clean UK driving licence 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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CAD Draughtsperson
£35000 - 40000 per year - Pension Contribution - 24 days holidays plus bank holidays - Be part of a successful design team
Desborough
CAD Draughtsperson £35,000 - £40,000 Pension Contribution 24 days holidays plus bank holidays Be part of a successful design team Reference: BP 235 Location: Northamptonshire ATA are working with an industry leader and specialist in the design and manufacturing of high-performance special purpose machinery for several industries and sectors. Our client pride themselves on the robust and innovative products that they provide to their customers and with over 70 years of industry experience in providing full turnkey solutions for their clients. They are currently looking to employ a CAD Draughtsperson to join their dynamic design working on multiple projects valued from £500k to £6 million. You will have the opportunity to work with industry experts and apply your skills within a successful team, reporting to the Head of Projects you will have an integral part in the successful completion of an increasing order book. The Role As a CAD Draughtsperson, you will work closely with the projects team on larger projects and work autonomously on smaller projects will be responsible for providing high-quality 2D and 3D draughting services using SolidWorks and AutoCAD to support the design and manufacturing of their products. The CAD Draughtsperson key responsibility will be to: Produce detailed manufacturing drawings of company systems, products, and layouts from 3D models (SolidWorks). Create fabrication drawings (steel fabrications) and assembly drawings, including Bills of Materials (BOMs). Manage and update BOMs within the company ERP system. Ensure all drawings and parts databases are current with the latest revisions. Collaborate with the manufacturing department, engineers, and sales team to ensure designs meet business requirements. Maintain high standards of drawing quality and continuity, adhering to relevant directives The Candidate The CAD Draughtsperson will have: Creative and innovative mindset. Flexible and dependable. Strong team player. Excellent communication skills, both written and oral. Experience as a CAD Draughtsperson in a similar industry. Background and experience in steelwork fabrication. Proficient in IT skills. The Benefits For the CAD Draughtsperson role, you will receive: £35,000 - £40,000 Pension Contribution 24 days holidays plus bank holidays Flexible start and finish times Be part of a successful Project Management Team 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 - 50000 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 – £50,000 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 – £50,000 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
Apply now
Senior Mechanical Design Engineer
£50000 - 60000 per year - 25 days holiday + bank holidays - Hybrid working: 2 days from home - Life assurance - Company pen
Coventry
Senior Mechanical Design Engineer Competitive salary: £50,000 – £60,000 Coventry (Hybrid – 2 days from home) 25 days holiday + bank holidays Hybrid working: 2 days from home Life assurance Company pension contribution Career development opportunities in a global organisation Location: Coventry Reference: BP 219 ATA Recruitment are working in partnership with a leading engineering firm that specialises in the design and manufacture of bespoke equipment for the chemical and processing industries. They’re currently seeking an experienced Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join their dynamic team and lead the mechanical design function across a range of complex, high-value projects. This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a business that specialises in the design and manufacture of special purpose equipment for the chemical and processing industries. The company delivers high-quality engineered solutions that meet international standards and regulatory requirements, with a strong focus on safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Key Responsibilities: As a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer, you will: Lead the mechanical design team in producing system drawings, general arrangements, sub-assemblies, and detailed part drawings using 2D CAD and 3D Inventor. Oversee project delivery, ensuring designs are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. Mentor team capacity planning and resource allocation across multiple projects. Collaborate with internal departments including Production, Procurement, Sales, and R&D, as well as external suppliers and technical agencies. Drive continuous improvement and configuration management across the product range. What We’re Looking For: To succeed as a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer, you should have: A qualification in Mechanical Engineering. Experience in mechanical design, ideally within special purpose machinery or manufacturing. Proficiency in Autodesk Inventor or other similar CAD software. Strong knowledge of sheet metal and machined component design, GD&T, and manufacturing processes. Excellent documentation skills and the ability to produce manufacturing-ready designs. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities. What They Offer for The Senior Mechanical Design Engineer: Coventry (Hybrid – 2 days from home) Competitive salary: £50,000 – £60,000 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 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