Project Engineer

Job description

Project Engineer – Automation Systems – Bedfordshire

Location: Bedfordshire

Overview

This is an excellent opportunity for a mechanically minded engineer to join a leading provider of automated manufacturing systems for Tier 1 automotive and general engineering customers. The Project Engineer will support the delivery of automated manufacturing systems, gaining experience across mechanical assemblies, robotics, tooling, and process automation. The role provides a structured development pathway into Project Management and Programme Management for the right individual.

Key Responsibilities

Project Engineering Support & Project Coordination

• Assist senior engineers and project managers throughout the full lifecycle of automation and assembly tooling projects.
• Work with mechanical drawings, 3D CAD models, facility & system layouts, pneumatics, and specifications.
• Support the preparation of project documentation, schedules, and progress reports.
• Coordinate with internal teams (design, fabrication, controls, robot engineering, installation) to ensure smooth project execution.
• Provide hands-on support during assembly, testing, and installation activities.

Technical Learning & Development

• Gain experience in mechanical assemblies, tooling, pneumatics, and automated machinery, including process & sequence definition and development of assembly process solutions.
• Assist business development with technical bid proposals, including system layouts, timing plans, cycle time calculations, and process definition.
• Hands-on involvement with fixture and tooling build, facility assembly, system testing, and final commissioning.
• Support troubleshooting and problem-solving during build and commissioning phases, working alongside other engineering disciplines.
• Participate in FAT, SAT, and customer acceptance activities during buy-off and handover.
• Learn to apply engineering standards, safety requirements, and customer specifications.

Customer & Supplier Interaction

• Assist with technical queries from customers and suppliers.
• Work with internal and external engineering resources, including Design, Manufacturing, Controls, and Robot Engineering.
• Support customer engineering change enquiries and develop engineering cost estimates.
• Develop project finance awareness, working within budgets and forecasts.
• Support engineering site activities, including site visits, installations, and commissioning.
• Help source mechanical components and equipment as part of procurement processes.

Qualifications

• Level 5 qualification or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Automation, Manufacturing, or a related discipline.
• Time-served mechanical apprenticeships will be considered.
• Additional training in automation or project engineering is beneficial but not required.

Career Development Pathway

The role is structured to support long-term career growth. As experience builds, the successful candidate will progress through:

• Project Engineer – taking ownership of work packages and technical delivery.
• Project Manager – leading full projects, managing budgets, timelines, and customer relationships.
• Programme Manager – overseeing multiple large-scale automation programmes for Tier 1 and OEM customers.
• Training, mentoring, and exposure to real project environments will be provided at every stage.

Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

Bedford

Type of Contract

Full-time jobs

Published at

26-03-2026

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English