We make our process as bespoke as your machinery
The Special Purpose Machinery sector sees companies manufacturing bespoke and custom made machines which are used across the FMCG, Automotive, Aerospace, Construction Materials Manufacturing, Logistics and numerous other sectors. ATA Recruitment has vast experience working with these companies, creating a tailored and specific approach to understand their business and it's needs. We appreciate that many of our customers need a blend of permanent and contract employees to maintain a flexible and agile workforce for when projects land, so if your machinery is bespoke, then our approach needs to be too!
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
Technical Sales Engineer - North of England
£45000 - 55000 per year + Car Allowance + Benefits Full-Time | Hybrid Working
York
Technical Sales Engineer – North of England Field-Based | Covering Northern England & Scotland £45,000 – £55,000 + Car Allowance + Benefits Full-Time | Hybrid Working | Immediate Start Available Referenace: BP 193 About the Company Our client is a well-established, internationally active engineering organisation with over 40 years of experience in delivering materials handling systems for the wastewater treatment sector. With a strong presence in the UK and operations across Europe, North America, and Australia, the company is known for its high-quality, engineered solutions and commitment to innovation. The UK team is based across two sites, with a focus on design, project management, and client support, while manufacturing is carried out in Sweden. The company serves a wide range of industries including municipal wastewater, biowaste, pulp and paper, and industrial processing. Role Overview This is a field-based position responsible for managing and expanding the company’s presence across the North of England and Scotland, from Derbyshire to the Highlands. The successful candidate will be responsible for the full sales lifecycle, from initial enquiry and site survey through to quotation, negotiation, and project handover. This role offers the opportunity to work on projects ranging from £10,000 to over £1.6 million, and is ideal for a technically proficient sales professional with a background in engineering and process equipment. Key Responsibilities Develop and maintain strong relationships with existing clients, including major utilities and Tier 1 contractors. Identify and pursue new business opportunities across the Northern region. Conduct site surveys, assess technical feasibility, and gather specifications for bespoke solutions. Prepare and present detailed technical quotations, including costings, installation requirements, and project timelines. Collaborate with internal teams (design, procurement, and project management) to ensure seamless project execution. Attend industry events, exhibitions, and client meetings to promote the company’s capabilities. Provide regular sales forecasts, activity reports, and market feedback to senior management. Candidate Requirements Essential: Proven experience in technical sales, ideally within the wastewater, process equipment, or heavy industry sectors. Strong engineering background, with a minimum of HND qualification. Proficiency in CAD and the ability to interpret and work with technical drawings. Excellent communication, negotiation, and analytical skills. Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel across the North of England and Scotland. Ability to work independently and manage a flexible schedule, including overnight stays when required. Desirable: Existing network of contacts within the wastewater or utilities sector. Experience with shaftless screw conveyors, compactors, silo tanks, and screening systems. Familiarity with project costing, installation logistics, and client handover processes. What’s on Offer Competitive base salary of £45,000 – £55,000, depending on experience. Car allowance, company credit card, and food/mileage expenses 23 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with length of service. Pension scheme with 4% employer match. Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working and agile hours. Comprehensive product and systems training. Clear path for career progression, with opportunities to move into senior sales roles as the team expands. As ATA Recruitment are working closely 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 coming few weeks, 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 Search 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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Technical Sales Engineer - South East England
£45000 - 55000 per year - Car allowance, company credit card, and food/mileage expenses
Brighton
Technical Sales Engineer – South East England Field-Based | Covering South East Region £45,000 – £55,000 + Car Allowance + + Benefits Full-Time | Hybrid Working | Immediate Start Available Reference: BP 192 About the Company Our client is a well-established, internationally operating engineering firm with over four decades of experience delivering materials handling solutions to the wastewater treatment industry. With design and project management teams based in the UK and manufacturing operations in mainland Europe, the company serves a wide range of sectors including municipal wastewater, biowaste, pulp and paper, and industrial processing. The business has experienced consistent growth over the past several years and is now seeking to expand its UK sales team with the appointment of a Technical Sales Engineer to cover the South East of England. Role Overview This is a field-based role focused on both developing new business and managing existing client relationships. The successful candidate will be responsible for the full sales cycle—from initial enquiry and site survey through to quotation, negotiation, and project handover. Projects typically range in value from £10,000 to over £1 million, and the role requires a strong technical understanding of process equipment, as well as the ability to communicate effectively with engineers, procurement teams, and senior stakeholders. Key Responsibilities Identify and pursue new business opportunities across the South East region. Maintain and grow relationships with existing clients, including major utilities and Tier 1 contractors. Conduct detailed site surveys and feasibility assessments. Prepare and present technical quotations, including cost breakdowns, installation logistics, and project timelines. Collaborate with internal design and project teams to ensure accurate and timely project delivery. Attend industry events and exhibitions to promote the company’s capabilities and expand market presence. Provide regular sales activity reports and revenue forecasts to senior management. Candidate Requirements Essential: Proven experience in technical sales, ideally within the wastewater, process equipment, or heavy industry sectors. Strong engineering background. Proficiency in CAD and the ability to interpret technical drawings. Excellent communication, negotiation, and analytical skills. Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel across the South East. Ability to work independently and manage a flexible schedule, including overnight stays when required. Desirable: Existing network of contacts within the wastewater or utilities sector. Experience with shaftless screw conveyors, compactors, silo tanks, and screening systems. Familiarity with project costing, installation logistics, and client handover processes. What’s on Offer Competitive base salary of £45,000 – £55,000, depending on experience. Car allowance, company credit card, and food/mileage expenses 23 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with length of service. Pension scheme with 4% employer match. Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working and agile hours. Comprehensive product and systems training. Clear path for career progression, with opportunities to move into senior sales roles as the team expands. As ATA Recruitment are working closely 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 coming few weeks, 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 Search 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
PROJECT DESIGN ENGINEER
£38 - 43 per hour
Greater Manchester
Project Design Engineer Manchester / Huddersfield / Bolton / Oldham / Rochdale 3-6 month contract / Outside IR35 £37.50p/h - £42.50p/h DOE Solidworks / PDM / Pharmaceutical /Special Purpose Machinery I am recruiting for a well-established UK leader within the design install and commissioning of bespoke complex machinery for the pharmaceutical industry. Due to ongoing projects in the business, they are looking for a Mechanical Design Engineer on an interim basis. Initially there is a commitment of 3 months, but this is very likely to be extended due to project scope for a successful candidate. For the position of Project Design Engineer, you will require to conduct the following daily duties: 3D design and detailing using Solidworks to customer specifications Develop new designs and improvements of products Liaise with production & internal technical departments Develop documentation and updating project tools Maintain customer contact through Project delivery The successful Project Design Engineer will need to have the following attributes: Highly experienced in the design of bespoke equipment within the pharmaceutical industry Expert user of Solidworks & PDM Project design background working through the full life cycle through to completion Ability to communicate with clients and internal members of the business An astute professional, with the ability to excel within a design team The benefits of this position: Highly project based in a heavy to medium materials handling capacity Autonomous role to see through full project lifecycle Flexible working for the right candidate Outside IR35 (Ltd. Co. suitable) I am looking to speak to talented Project Design Engineers who are looking for a rewarding and highly challenging position. For more information please contact Dom Firth (07892789342), Recruitment Consultant at ATA Recruitment. 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
Mechanical Design Engineer
£37000 - 45000 per year Pension Contribution * 28 days Holiday inc Bank Holidays * Be Part of a Successful Engineering Team
Bridgnorth
Mechanical Design Engineer £37,000 - £45,000 Pension Contribution 28 days Holiday inc Bank Holidays Be Part of a Successful Engineering Team Location:West Midlands Reference: BP 191 ATA are closely working with a leading engineering solutions provider, specializing in bespoke design, fabrication, and installation services across various sectors, including timber, rail, and general manufacturing. With a commitment to innovation and quality, they deliver tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of their customer base. With over 40 years of experience, the company has established a strong reputation both locally and globally They are seeking a talented and motivated Mechanical Design Engineer to join their dynamic team. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in designing and developing custom machinery and equipment, ensuring that solutions meet the highest standards of performance and reliability. The Role As a Mechanical Design Engineer, you will work closely with the sales team to discuss client requirements Producing sales drawings and technical specifications for both internal costing and submission to clients for approval. The Mechanical Design Engineer’s key responsibilities are to: Collaborate with clients and internal teams to understand project requirements and develop detailed design specifications. Create 3D models and technical drawings using CAD software. Perform engineering calculations and simulations to validate design concepts. Oversee the fabrication and assembly processes to ensure designs are accurately implemented. Conduct testing and troubleshooting to ensure equipment meets performance criteria. Provide technical support during installation and commissioning phases. Stay updated with industry trends and advancements to incorporate best practices into designs The Candidate The Mechanical Design Engineer will have: Proven experience in mechanical design, preferably within the manufacturing or engineering sectors. Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD). Strong understanding of engineering principles and manufacturing processes. Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail. Effective communication and teamwork abilities. The Benefits For the Mechanical Design Engineer role, you will receive: £37,000 - £45,000 Pension Contribution 28 days Holiday inc Bank Holidays Be Part of a Successful Engineering 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
Mechanical Design Engineer
£37000 - 45000 per year - Pension Contribution - 12:30 Finish on Fridays - 25 days Holiday + BH - Bupa Health Cover
Corby
Design Engineer Corby, Northamptonshire £37,000 - £45,000 Pension Contribution 12:30 Finish on Fridays 25 days Holiday + BH Bupa Health Cover Reference: BP 188 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. Engineering Calculations: Perform engineering calculations and Finite Element Analysis to ensure designs are compliant with ISO and H&S standards. 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: Experience in designing machines, sheet-metal, and machined parts. Proficiency in AutoCAD (2D) and Inventor or similar software. Ability to perform relevant engineering calculations. 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. Desirable: Experience in a similar environment. Familiarity with Risk Analysis and Machinery Directives. Full driving license. 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
Software Controls Engineer
£40 - 50 per hour
Lancashire
** Software Controls Engineer ** Location: Manchester / Lancashire / Northwest Duration: 3-6 month contract (likely longer) / Outside IR35 Rate 40.00p/h - £50.00p/h DOE FMCG / SPM / Conveyors / HMI upgrade / Siemens / Mitsubishi / Rockwell I am currently recruiting on behalf of a key client based in the Northwest, close to Lancashire M65 corridor, who are a leading capital machinery manufacturer. They operate in the design, manufacture and installation of special purpose machinery & conveyors into fast paced FMCG & food processing industries. Due to continued growth, they are looking for experienced Software Controls Engineer to join their team on an interim basis. Initially this contract/project will be for 3 months. The successful Software Controls Engineer will require to conduct the following daily duties: Responsible for the development/re-writing of code VIA automation on HMIs Utilising VIA / Mitsubishi, as well Siemens and Allen Bradley software Development of new features through the development of code Low level interface conducting the whole process from scratch Utilising some blocks from existing library and standard platforms Working on industrial SPM and conveyors into FMCG/Food manufacturing Going to site to install the new HMI modules and ensure they pass fit for purpose The successful Software Controls Engineer will need to have the following attributes: Experienced on multiple software development and unified HMI Familiarity with fast paced food manufacture and processing industries HNC/HND/Degree level electrical/software/systems Engineering or similar ideally The benefits of this position: Highly project-based Special Purpose machinery and capital equipment engineering environment Responsible role to see through development to site commission High end software integration Some travel will be required and commissioning around the Northwest region and into Yorkshire on occasion Outside IR35 suitable – Limited co. or PAYE I am looking to speak to talented Software Controls Engineers who are looking for a rewarding and highly challenging position. For more information, please contact Luke Corr, Contract Recruitment Manager at ATA Recruitment. ATA Recruitment specialises in Manufacturing and 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
Mechanical Design Engineer
£30000 - 40000 per year Excellent Benefits
Nottinghamshire
Mechanical Design Engineer (Engineering) Nottingham Salary: £30,000 - £40,000 Hours: 37.5 hours per week, flexible start/finish times with early finish on Friday Benefits: 25 Days + Bank Holidays Company: Our client is a leading provider of mechanical engineering services in the area, supplying, designing an installing Bespoke Equipment and Special Purpose Machinery. Established in the area, they have built a strong reputation for delivering quality service to their clients Their team designs and fabricates a variety of products and pride themselves in a providing a high standard of craftsmanship and innovation. As a business they are experiencing growth and a consistent large volume of incoming projects, as such they are looking to expand their design team to allow them to run additional projects simultaneously. They currently employ more than 50 employees across the business, with a considerably sized design team. The role For the role of Mechanical Design Engineer, the following experience is required: 3D modelling experience Solid background as a Mechanical Design Engineer SolidWorks is preferred though any CAD package would be considered Experience within a sheet metal/fabrication setting would be highly advantageous Desire to learn a new industry and develop career Friendly, proactive and attention to detail driven The Benefits Competitive salary up to £40k DOE 25 days holiday plus bank holidays Company pension plan Private medical healthcare (optional) Annual Profit-related bonus scheme Future progression opportunities within the business Excellent opportunity to get into project management Flexible working hours during the work week Half day on Friday How to Apply If you are a motivated and experienced Design Engineer looking to join a growing company, we want to hear from you! Please send your CV to Matt Taylor at kristi.hopwood@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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Project Manager
£50000 - 55000 per year Car + Bonus
Sheffield
Project Manager £50K-£55K + Bonus + Car + 33 Days Holiday Based from home - with 2-3 days a week spent on customer site across the UK Ideally Based near the M1, or M62 corridor Are you a project manager, service manager or installations manager from an industrial machinery background? Do you want to join a global market leader in its field? Then apply now The Company: Part of a well established international group, this market leading business design and manufacture complex machinery for blue chip FMCG companies all over the world. The UK arm of this business supply bespoke machinery solutions to a portfolio of instantly recognisable FMCG clients. There is huge investment coming in from the wider group and as such we are looking for a projects Manager to deliver multiple high value projects for key customers in the UK The Role: Working alongside the sales director and service manager, the projects manager plays a key role within the senior management team. You will be looking after a number of different projects, all at different stages of the project life cycle, and of varying complexity and value. All projects are managed from cradle to grave but the majority of your time will be spent managing the installation and commissioning stages. Planning and organising machine delivery Orgaising labour (in house engineers and contractors) Managing the customer through FAT’s, product trails and final commissioning Problem solving Ensuring the project is delivered within budget and to agreed time scales Required Experience: The ideal Projects Manager will have the following skills and experience: Engineering/manufacturing background and qualification Experience planning and managing machinery installations Flexible to travel and work away from home Customer facing and commercially astute Benefits: Working form home, organising and planning your own time Stable and growing business that will allow you to develop within the role Competitive salary plus car and bonus Interviews can be arranged immediately so apply by following the online instructions or send a CV to Andrew.bairstow@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