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Graduate Automation Engineer

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Manufacturing Automation Engineer
Annual salary: Competitive Salary
An opportunity has arisen within the Manufacturing department for a Manufacturing Automation Engineer, based primarily at our Barnsley site. As the business continues to invest in capital equipment and technology, this role will play a key part in modernising production through robotics, automation and process optimisation within a complex manufacturing environment. You will join us on a full-time, permanent basis, and in return, you will receive a competitive salary.
This role would suit an Automation Engineer with a degree in Robotics and Automation or similar who is focused on delivering practical improvements on the shop floor. The successful candidate will be confident introducing new technology, leading automation projects, and working across teams to improve efficiency, quality, and innovation in key manufacturing processes.
As one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of Kitchen, Bedroom and Bathroom fitted furniture, Symphony has had unsuppressed growth, with over 50 years’ experience. Our emphasis is on providing a high standard for all our products and the services we offer. We are currently seeking the very best people, to further strengthen our position within the industry by appointing dedicated individuals to share in our success.
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
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Key Responsibilities Of Our Graduate Automation Engineer
- Identify and deliver automation opportunities across manufacturing operations.
- Lead installation, commissioning, and integration of robotic and automated systems.
- Develop and optimise robot programs and PLC-controlled processes.
- Conduct cost-benefit analysis and support capital investment decisions.
- Drive continuous improvement using data analysis and Lean methodologies.
Qualifications
- A strong understanding of APQP, PFMEA, Six Sigma and Statistical Process Control methodologies.
- Knowledge of manufacturing process design, cell layout and material flow principles.
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing techniques and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Project management experience with multiple engineering projects.
- Knowledge of CAD software, ideally AutoCAD.
- A degree in Robotics and Automation or a related discipline.


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Additional Requirements
- Excellent analytical, fault finding and problem-solving ability.
- Strong project management and organisational skills.
- Effective communication and stakeholder management.
- Ability to influence and work collaboratively across cross-functional teams.
- Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on delivering measurable business improvements.
- Ability to quickly learn new technologies and manufacturing processes.
- A full UK driving licence as there will be some travel to other manufacturing sites.
This position will be rewarded with a competitive salary. In order for your application to be taken further, please state your required salary.
If this sounds like the perfect opportunity for you, then please click ‘apply’ today – they’d love to hear from you!
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