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
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
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Software Controls Engineer
£50 - 55 per hour
Leeds
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
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Mechanical Design Engineer
£35000 - 45000 per year
Nottinghamshire
Mechanical Design Engineer Nottinghamshire £35,000 – £45,000 + Potential Bonus + Flexible working The Company Our client is a 50 year established British engineering business in the northern area of Nottinghamshire. They design, manufacture, and install bespoke materials handling systems for a wide range of industries from food industry through to large scale conveyors used in heavy industry. The business employs around 100 staff in the UK and is currently recruiting for a Mechanical Design Engineer with the business ready to recruit as soon as possible. Please apply online for speedy consideration. The Role The role of Mechanical Design Engineer will involve: Creating 3D models of components on SolidWorks, Inventor and Tekla (structural steel components) Producing 2D detailed general arrangement drawings You will be taking projects right from hand over from sales through design and into manufacture before the project goes to installation at site. Some of the key components being modelled in SolidWorks include bearings, pulleys, rollers for conveyors. The Candidate To be successful in your application for this Mechanical Design Engineer role you will need: Some experience in using SolidWorks or Inventor The business can support with training on Tekla Someone that has experience in the design of either conveyor systems, heavy machinery, moving mechanisms or special purpose machinery Experience in a design engineering or CAD related position To enjoy working in a team based environment To liaise with customers Someone who enjoys designing bespoke products The Benefits For this Mechanical Design Engineer role will have the following benefits on offer: The opportunity to work a business with a long stable trading history The opportunity to use a range of CAD Packages SolidWorks, Inventor and Tekla To chance to join an existing team of experienced engineers A large variety of interesting industries to work for A large variety of bespoke products to £40,000 – £45,000 dependent upon experience Flexible working hours 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
Project Manager
£55000 - 65000 per year - Pension Contribution - 24 Days Holiday + Bank Holidays - Clear Career Progression and Development
Northamptonshire
Project Manager Location: Northamptonshire £55,000 - £65,000 Pension Contribution 24 Days Holiday + Bank Holidays Clear Career Progression and Development Reference: BP 217 Exclusively represented by ATA Recruitment ATA Recruitment is proud to be exclusively partnering with a leading engineering and manufacturing organisation that specialises in the design, fabrication, and installation of complex mechanical systems. This business delivers turnkey solutions across sectors including water treatment, energy, infrastructure, and heavy industry. With a reputation for precision engineering, robust project delivery, and long-term client partnerships, they are now seeking a skilled Project Manager to join their growing team. About the Role As a Project Manager, you will take full ownership of large engineering projects from concept through to completion. These projects typically involve bespoke mechanical assemblies, structural steelwork, pipework systems, and site-based installations. You’ll be responsible for managing budgets, timelines, resources, and client expectations, ensuring every project is delivered safely, on time, and to specification. This is a hands-on Project Manager role that requires technical understanding, commercial awareness, and strong stakeholder management. You’ll be working closely with design engineers, fabrication teams, subcontractors, and clients to coordinate all phases of project execution Key Responsibilities as a Project Manager Lead end-to-end project delivery across multiple engineering contracts Develop detailed project plans, risk assessments, and resource schedules Manage budgets ranging from £100k to £5m, ensuring financial control and reporting Liaise with clients, suppliers, and internal teams to ensure alignment and communication Oversee site activities including installation, commissioning, and handover Ensure compliance with health & safety, quality standards, and contractual obligations Act as the primary point of contact for all project-related matters To succeed as a Project Manager in this role, you’ll need: Proven experience managing engineering or manufacturing projects Strong understanding of mechanical systems, fabrication, or industrial installations Excellent communication and leadership skills Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and drive project performance A qualification in engineering or project management Why Apply? This is a fantastic opportunity for a Project Manager who thrives in a dynamic, technical environment and wants to make a tangible impact on high-value engineering projects. You’ll be joining a business with a strong order book, ambitious growth plans, and a collaborative culture that values innovation and accountability. 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
Controls Engineer
£40000 - 60000 per year + £350/month car allowance or company car - 29 days holiday - Company pension contribution - Overtim
Bedford
PLC Controls Engineer Location: Bedford Salary: £40,000 - £60,000 per annum + £350/month car allowance or company car 29 days holiday Company pension contribution Overtime available Annual bonus Reference: BP 216 ATA Recruitment are working closely with a leading provider of industrial automation solutions, specialising in PLC and robot programming, commissioning, and production support. The company serves major automotive clients including Mercedes Benz, BMW, FFT, EBZ, and Dalian Auto. With a commitment to excellence, innovation, and employee development, striving to become a global benchmark in engineering services. Role Overview: We are seeking a skilled PLC Software Engineer to join our dynamic team. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing and commissioning complex automation projects, including PLC and HMI programming. This role involves both independent and team-based work, with travel required for customer equipment startups. Key Responsibilities for the PLC Controls Engineer role: Design HMI screens and develop PLC code Troubleshoot and support existing PLC software Communicate with customers to implement tailored solutions Load initial PLC software and support equipment startups Collaborate with teams on large-scale projects Technical Requirements for the PLC Controls Engineer role: Experience with Siemens TIA Portal or Rockwell ControlLogix Experience in automotive and robotics sectors Familiarity with Variable Frequency Drives Knowledge of ControlNet and EtherNet in industrial networks Ability to read schematic diagrams Understanding of IEC software standards Eplan P8 experience is a plus Benefits for the PLC Controls Engineer role Benefits: 29 days holiday Standard company pension contribution Overtime available at weekends Annual bonus (consistently awarded for 15 years) Company phone, laptop, and uniform 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 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 Service Engineer
£42000 - 43000 per year Vehicle + Bonus
West Yorkshire
Field Service Engineer (UK & International) £42K-£43K + Vehicle + Bonus + Expenses + 33 Days Holiday Based form Home (anywhere along the M62 corridor) with majority of time spent on customer sites. Are you a recent forces leaver looking for their first role in civvy street? Or perhaps you are an experienced service engineer or maintenance engineer looking for a new challenge? The Company: ATA Recruitment is working with a well established manufacturer of bespoke machinery. They install this machinery all over the world for blue chip clients in different industries form food & drink, aerospace, chemical and general manufacturing. They are breaking into new industries and developing new products and as a result are looking to expand their service team with an additional service engineer to cope with all these new customers. The Role: Working on customer sites across the UK and abroad, the service engineer will: Conduct planned and reactive maintenance across the complete product range Install and commission machinery Fault find on mechanical and electrical systems Travel and work away from homwe extensively Required Experience: The successful service engineer will have the following skills and experience: Mechanical or electrical NVQ level 3 Maintenance or Field Service experience on industrial machinery The flexibility to travel and work away from home in the UK and overseas This role could be of particular interest to ex-forces engineers looking for that first role as a civilian, or a site based maintenance engineer looking to get out into the field Benefits: The Service engineer can expect: Full product and industry training Multi-skilling Training on PLC’ s Really interesting and complex machinery to work on Overseas travel - see the world 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
Electrical Design Engineer
£40000 - 50000 per year - 5% Pension Matched - 20 Days Hol + Bank Holidays - Birthday Holiday - 12pm Finish on Fridays
Walsall
Electrical Design Engineer Walsall, West Midlands £40,000 – £50,000 + Excellent Benefits 5% Pension Matched 20 Days Hol + Bank Holidays Birthday Holiday 12pm Finish on Fridays Reference: BP 215 ATA recruitment are looking for an Electrical Design Engineer to work on high-spec automation and control systems across a wide range of industries, this is a fantastic opportunity to join a forward-thinking engineering business that partners with leading OEMs across Europe. About the Role As an Electrical Design Engineer, you’ll be responsible for designing and developing electrical control systems used in machinery for sectors including medical, food processing, packaging, scientific equipment, and aerospace. You’ll work on full-cycle design projects, from concept through to production, in a collaborative and innovation-driven environment. Your responsibilities will include: Creating electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control panel layouts using CAD software Performing electrical calculations such as load analysis and component sizing Collaborating with production and project teams to ensure design accuracy and manufacturability Supporting continuous improvement and contributing to technical innovation What We’re Looking For To succeed as an Electrical Design Engineer, you’ll need: Proven experience in electrical design within manufacturing or automation Proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., AutoCAD, EPLAN) Strong understanding of control systems and compliance standards Excellent communication and problem-solving skills Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines What’s on Offer Salary: £40,000 – £50,000 depending on experience Pension: 5% matched contribution Insurance: UNUM Critical Illness Cover & Death in Service (1x Annual Salary) Leave: 20 days annual leave + bank holidays + 1 extra day for your birthday Hours: Compressed working week with early finish every Friday Culture: A supportive, innovative environment with a strong focus on employee development This is an ideal opportunity for an Electrical Design Engineer who wants to be part of a business that values precision, scalability, and continuous improvement. You’ll work in a modern facility with cutting-edge technology and be supported by a team that encourages growth and development. If you're a passionate Electrical Design Engineer ready to take the next step in your career, we’d love 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
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