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
Graduate Mechanical Design Engineer
£30000 - 32000 per year - Company Pension Contribution - 25 Days Holiday + Bank Holidays - Christmas Shutdown - Individual P
Redditch
Graduate Mechanical Design Engineer £30,000 - £32,000 Company Pension Contribution 25 Days Holiday + Bank Holidays Christmas Shutdown Individual Progression Plan Training and Support Design and Project duties Reference: BP 130 Location: Redditch ATA Recruitment is proud to be working with a long-established and growing engineering business that designs and manufactures bespoke heat exchangers for a wide range of industries including power generation, marine, mining, automotive, and industrial hydraulics. With over 45 years of expertise and a turnover of £12 million, this business is entering an exciting phase of growth and innovation. They are now looking to recruit a Graduate Mechanical Design Engineer to join their close-knit engineering team at their Redditch facility. The Opportunity As a Graduate Mechanical Design Engineer, you’ll be involved in the full product lifecycle—from concept to production—working on custom heat exchanger designs for a varied and technically demanding client base. This is a hands-on, development-focused role where you’ll be mentored by Chartered and Incorporated Engineers and supported to grow your technical and professional capabilities. Key Responsibilities Thermal and mechanical design of heat exchangers using internal software and ASME VIII guidelines 3D and 2D CAD design using PTC Creo (moving to version 11) Creating product structures within the ERP system (SAGE 1000) Liaising with customers, suppliers, and internal departments Visiting client and supplier sites to support project development Managing projects from initial enquiry through to production Supporting pricing, costing, and technical documentation Training & Development As a Graduate Mechanical Design Engineer, you’ll benefit from a structured development plan and close mentorship: Training Includes: Creo CAD course Industry regulations (PED, ASME) One-to-one mentoring and regular reviews Shop floor activities to understand manufacturing processes Design-to-prototype exposure Continuous professional development Support for further qualifications What We’re Looking For Essential Traits: Hands-on, proactive attitude Strong communication skills Eager to learn and not afraid to ask questions or make mistakes Loyal and hardworking with a sense of humour Benefits: For the Graduate Mechanical Design Engineer role, you will receive: £30,000 - £32,000 Company Pension Contribution 25 Days Holiday + Bank Holidays Christmas Shutdown Individual Progression Plan Training and Support 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 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
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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
Field-Based Service Engineer - Crawler Cranes
£45000 - 50000 per year
Manchester
Field-Based Service Engineer – Crawler Cranes Location: Northwest, UK (National Travel Required) Salary: £45,000–£50,000 per year (Temp to Perm) The Company Based in the Northwest and operating across the UK, this specialist provider focuses on crawler crane solutions, offering a modern fleet of lattice‑boom and telescopic crawler cranes. With decades of industry experience, the business supports major infrastructure, civil‑engineering, construction, tunnelling, marine & water, and industrial projects. They maintain their own depot with fully‑equipped workshop facilities, experienced engineering teams, and a dedicated transport fleet to deliver and service equipment nationwide. As the business continues to invest in technology, quality, and service, they are looking for an experienced Service Engineer to maintain and support their national crawler crane fleet, helping to uphold their reputation for high standards. The Role As a Field-Based Service Engineer, you will be responsible for the maintenance, servicing, and repair of crawler cranes across the North West and nationally as required. This is a hands-on, field-based position, ensuring the company’s cranes are fully operational and safe for customer use. Key responsibilities include: Carrying out scheduled maintenance, inspections, and servicing on crawler cranes at customer sites. Responding to breakdowns and emergency call-outs, diagnosing faults, and completing repairs efficiently. Ensuring all safety checks, statutory inspections, and manufacturer service requirements are completed to standard. Managing warranty parts, tools, and equipment for on-site work. Maintaining accurate service records and documentation for each machine. Liaising with the operations team to plan and prioritise service visits. Building strong relationships with customers, ensuring high levels of satisfaction and reliability. Supporting continuous improvement initiatives to enhance service efficiency and equipment uptime. The Candidate The successful candidate will require the following: Satisfactory completion of a recognised apprenticeship in a relevant engineering or mechanical discipline to NVQ Level 3 or equivalent. Proven experience working with heavy plant, crawler cranes, or similar machinery. CSCS card. Slinger and Signaller qualification. Strong mechanical fault-finding and repair skills. Ability to work independently in a field-based environment, managing multiple service calls. Excellent communication skills and a customer-focused approach. The Benefits Salary £45,000–£50,000 per year Field-based role with national travel Secure and progressive work environment Training and personal development opportunities If you’re interested, please send your CV to matt.wood@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
Software Controls Engineer
£50 - 55 per hour
West Yorkshire
Software Controls Engineer West Yorkshire £50.00 - £55.00 p/h DOE (Outside IR35) Initial 1 month contract Commissioning / PLC Programming / Automation / Commissioning I am currently recruiting for an experienced Software Controls Engineer (Contractor) based in West Yorkshire with a key client who requires support on the commissioning of automation machinery. This position is an initial 1-month job however there may be scope for other project work. As a Software Controls Engineer, you will be responsible for the following: • Developing and modifying PLC control software for a range of automated machinery. • Providing on-site support during machine commissioning and system integration. • Translating customer specifications and regulatory requirements into compliant, high-quality software solutions. • Working collaboratively with project teams to achieve key milestones and maintain clear, accurate progress reporting. The successful Software Controls Engineer will have the following attributes: • Demonstrated experience in Beckhoff PLC programming and commissioning within automation environments. • Solid knowledge of structured text, ladder logic, and function block programming techniques. • Practical experience with Beckhoff hardware setup, configuration, and troubleshooting. Benefits of this position: Highly reputable project-based company State of the art facilities 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
Apply now
Controls Service Engineer
£50000 - 55000 per year £3,500 On-Call Allowance + Company Car/Allowance + Excellent Benefits
Telford
Controls Service Engineer Salary: £50,000 – £55,000 (depending on experience and skillset) + £3,500 on call allowance + Car Allowance OR Company Car Location: Telford OR Nottingham based Hours: 8am – 5pm (Hybrid option during in-office weeks 1 day per week considered) Benefits: Company Pension, Time off in lieu, 25 Days holiday About the Role Our client is a leading automation specialist providing technical solutions to businesses across the globe with an extensive client portfolio across leading engineering and manufacturing companies. They are passionate about developing technologically advanced solutions to help improve and advance manufacturing capabilities. Due to expansion and the needs of their ever-increasing client base, they require 3 Controls Service Engineers to join their skilled and enthusiastic team. The successful Controls Service Engineers will provide technical support both online and face to face with customer satisfaction at the forefront of their mind. Key Responsibilities The role of Controls Service Engineer will be split across the month between in-office and on-call/from home alternating weekly. Responsibilities in-office will include; Responding to logged tickets for minor faults Logging onto customer PLC’s remotely – fault finding/troubleshooting and making modifications to code Booking in faults for visits later in the week Attending handover meetings with Project Managers Responsibilities on-call/from home will include; Be available for client calls/emails due to PLC related faults Providing support – remotely/onsite/via email/via phone call to resolve issue This role is on-call 24/7 2 weeks a month – you must be prepared to work on an on-call rota at potentially short notice and during unsociable hours Preferred skills & experience To be successful in your application for this Controls Service Engineer role you will need: A relevant qualification i.e. Electrical/Controls Apprenticeship/HNC or Degree Significant experience working with PLC’s to modification/design level Be able to log in remotely via VPN and direct yourself through diagnostic pages Have the ability to communicate well with clients to procure required information for diagnostics Siemens TIA Portal is desirable though not a prerequisite Solid client facing/communication skills Self-reliant, self-motivated and able to work under pressure Why Join Us? This is a fantastic opportunity for a Controls Service Engineer looking to work on exciting automation projects, providing top of the line support for some of the UK’s biggest manufacturing/engineering companies In return, our client is offering a package of; Salary: £50,000 – £55,000 (depending on experience and skillset) + £3,500 on call allowance + Car Allowance OR Company Car Location: Telford OR Nottingham based Hours: 8am – 5pm (Hybrid option during in-office weeks 1 day per week considered) Benefits: Company Pension, Time off in lieu, 25 Days holiday 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 coming few weeks, you will then be contacting by one of our Recruitment Consultant who will be able to provide more details. 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 Quality Engineer
£42000 - 45000 per year - Holidays: 25 days + bank holidays + your birthday off - Pension: Company contribution - Work-Life
Redditch
Senior Quality Engineer Salary: £40,000 – £45,000 Holidays: 25 days + bank holidays + your birthday off Pension: Company contribution Work-Life Balance: Early finish every Friday at 12:15pm Location: Redditch Reference: BP 218 Senior Quality Engineer – Progression to Quality Manager Are you a quality-driven professional ready to take the next step in your career? A well-established and expanding engineering and manufacturing business in the West Midlands is seeking a Senior Quality Engineer to lead quality assurance initiatives and grow into a Quality Manager. About the Business This UK-based manufacturer is a leader in the design and production of air and liquid-cooled heat exchangers, serving a diverse international client base across sectors such as defence, automotive, industrial, and energy. With a strong reputation for technical innovation and customer satisfaction, the company is undergoing a period of growth and transformation, making this an exciting time to join. The business prides itself on its collaborative culture, hands-on approach, and commitment to continuous improvement. You’ll be working alongside experienced professionals in engineering, commercial, and purchasing teams to drive quality standards and operational excellence. The Role: Senior Quality Engineer As Senior Quality Engineer, you’ll be the first point of contact for quality-related issues, including returns, rejects, and warranties. You’ll lead audits, ensure compliance with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards, and produce high-quality NCR and 8D reports. This is a hands-on role with real impact—and a clear path to becoming a Quality Manager within 12 months. This opportunity is ideal for someone who wants to take ownership of quality systems and grow into a leadership role, shaping the future of quality assurance within the business. Key Responsibilities Manage and maintain the Business Management System (BMS) to ISO standards. Conduct internal and external audits and liaise with suppliers. Produce detailed quality reports and documentation (I.S.I.R., P.P.A.P.). Drive quality objectives and support cross-functional teams. Use advanced measuring equipment including Faro arms and CMMs. Analyse and distribute quality assurance statistical data. What We’re Looking For Proven experience as a Senior Quality Engineer in a manufacturing or engineering setting. Ability to read complex engineering drawings. Strong communication skills and high computer literacy. Experience with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards. Familiarity with quality tools and documentation processes. Why Apply? This is a rare opportunity for a Senior Quality Engineer to fast-track their career into a Quality Manager role. You’ll be empowered to lead quality initiatives, influence company-wide standards, and make a lasting impact. If you're a Senior Quality Engineer looking for career progression and the chance to lead quality strategy in a growing business, this is the role for you. The Package Salary: £40,000 - £45,000 Hours: 39 hours/week (Mon–Thurs: 7:15am–4:15pm, Fri: 7:15am–12:15pm) Holidays: 25 days + bank holidays (including Christmas shutdown) Birthday: Day off after qualifying period Pension: Company contribution after 3 months 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 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 Fitter
£24 - 26 per hour
Vale of Glamorgan
Mechanical Fitter South Wales Rate: £24.00 - £26.00p/h DOE (Outside IR35) Manufacturing / Fitting / Installations / FLT / CSCS I am working with a key client in South Wales who are looking for experienced Mechanical Fitters with strong machine build experience to work within a busy manufacturing environment. You will be responsible for mechanical assembly, fitting, and machine build. For the position of Mechanical Fitter position, you will be required to carry out the following duties: Ability to read and work from engineering drawings and schematics to tight tolerances. Installation and assembly – fitting motors, cylinders, pneumatics & hydraulics Moving of heavy machinery Use of FLT (Forklift Truck) for moving parts and assemblies on site Ensure strict adherence to Health, Safety and Quality standards at all times. The successful Mechanical Fitter will need to have the following attributes: Proven Mechanical Fitter / Installation experience within manufacturing FLT (Forklift Truck) Licence. CSCS card or equivalent Ability to read complex engineering drawings Strong communication skills and a professional, team-focused attitude. The benefits of this position: Potential for ongoing work and contract extensions Opportunities to work in a professional manufacturing environment Outside IR35 I am looking to speak to talented Mechanical Fitters with machine build experience who are looking for a rewarding and challenging contract position. 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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Interim Production Manager
£50000 - 55000 per year
West Yorkshire
Interim Production Manager West Yorkshire 6-month fixed term contract £50,000 - £55,000 Capital Equipment / Manufacturing / Production Management My client is a leading manufacturer of industrial capital equipment, seeking an experienced Interim Production Manager to provide hands-on leadership across their busy shop floor operation. This is an immediate requirement with strong potential for extension. For the position of Interim Production Manager, you will be required to undertake the following daily duties: • Lead and manage a team of 50+ shop floor personnel • Allocate work efficiently and ensure smooth day-to-day operations • Maintain proactive production planning in coordination with shift supervisors • Communicate effectively across departments to chase work and maintain steady workflow • Ensure processes are followed and productivity targets are achieved • Drive accountability and performance through clear leadership and delegation The successful Interim Production Manager will need to demonstrate the following attributes: • Strong understanding of manufacturing processes (fabrication, medium sheet metal, or similar) • Proven track record managing teams in a fast-paced production environment • Solid engineering background with process awareness • Confident communicator capable of motivating and directing internal labour • Competent user of MRP systems and spreadsheets The benefits of this position: • Hands-on, high-impact leadership role • Outside IR35 – Limited Company suitable • Immediate start 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