Automation Engineer

Short Intro and About the Job

Automation Engineer

Location: Alpro, Kettering, Northamptonshire

Salary: Competitive salary plus an excellent benefits package including pension, private healthcare and income protection.

Working Pattern: Monday-Friday, Day Shift

Join Alpro, Part of Danone

At Alpro, we're passionate about creating plant-based products that millions of people enjoy every day. As part of Danone, we're a global business with a local feel, offering excellent career development opportunities in a fast-paced and innovative manufacturing environment.

We're looking for an Automation Engineer to join our Engineering team at our Kettering manufacturing site.

Working across a highly automated manufacturing environment, you'll support, develop and improve the automation and control systems that keep our operation running safely, efficiently and reliably. From PLCs and SCADA systems to industrial networks and continuous improvement projects, you'll play a key role in driving performance and supporting future site investments.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain and support site automation systems, including PLCs, SCADA, HMIs, drives and industrial networks.
• Provide automation fault-finding and technical support to production and engineering teams.
• Deliver system improvements that enhance reliability, efficiency and performance.
• Support planned maintenance, upgrades, calibration activities and engineering projects.
• Maintain automation, server and IT/OT infrastructure across the site.
• Produce technical documentation and promote safe working practices, including lock-off and isolation procedures.

About You

About You

We're looking for a proactive engineer who enjoys solving technical challenges and working with modern manufacturing technology.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Recognised engineering qualification (NVQ Level 3, City & Guilds or equivalent).
• Experience supporting automation and control systems within a manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of PLCs, SCADA systems, drives and industrial control equipment.
• Strong fault-finding, problem-solving and communication skills.
• Understanding of industrial IT/OT systems and engineering safety standards.

Desirable

• Experience within food, beverage or FMCG manufacturing.
• Electrical qualification including 18th Edition Wiring Regulations. 
•  Knowledge of Siemens PLCs, WinCC and industrial networks.
• Experience with Tetra Pak, Galdi or similar packaging equipment.
• Understanding of aseptic processing, sterilisation and filling technologies.

About Us, We offer and What's next

What We Offer

At Alpro, we know our people are our greatest asset. In return for your expertise and commitment, we offer:

• Competitive salary and benefits package including pension, private healthcare and income protection.
• Ongoing training and development opportunities.
• Exposure to advanced automation and manufacturing technologies.
• Involvement in site investment and continuous improvement projects.
• Career progression opportunities within Alpro and Danone.
• A supportive and inclusive team environment.

About Alpro & Danone

Alpro is one of Europe's leading plant-based food and drink brands and is proudly part of Danone, a global company with a mission to bring health through food and beverage to as many people as possible.

Our Kettering site continues to grow through investment, innovation and expansion. As part of our Engineering team, you'll help support the technologies behind products enjoyed by millions of consumers across the UK and beyond.

At Danone, we believe that different perspectives make us stronger. Creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive is a core part of who we are.

What's Next?

If you're looking for an opportunity to develop your automation engineering career while working with industry-leading technology in a growing manufacturing environment, we'd love to hear from you.

Closing Date: Friday 11th December 2026

All applications must be submitted online.

To find out more about Alpro, Danone and other career opportunities, visit www.danone.com.