Automation Engineer

Germany

Our client, a global leader in advanced energy and high-technology manufacturing, is seeking experienced Automation Engineers to support the commissioning, testing, and ramp-up of a large-scale, next-generation battery cell production facility.

This role sits at the intersection of automation, data integration, and manufacturing systems, with a strong focus on machine interfaces, MES integration, and end-to-end validation during a critical production ramp-up phase.

You will act as a key interface between shopfloor equipment, automation systems, and MES, ensuring seamless communication, validation, and performance across highly automated production lines.

Working closely with machine suppliers and internal stakeholders, you will support commissioning, testing, and production readiness, ensuring systems are aligned with defined automation standards.

• Support all project phases from planning through to handover
• Execute and support:
• Acceptance testing
• Cold & hot commissioning
• Ramp-up of production systems
• Perform end-to-end (E2E) testing of machine-to-MES data interfaces
• Validate data integrity, functionality, and performance across systems
• Review and align systems against automation standards, identifying deviations
• Work closely with machine suppliers to resolve issues and optimise interfaces
• Participate in technical alignment meetings and drive improvements
• Track and report progress across commissioning and testing activities
• Support MES rollout across production areas
• Produce and maintain clear technical documentation

• Strong background in industrial automation (5-10+ years)
• Proven experience in commissioning and integration of automated systems
• Hands-on PLC programming (Siemens essential, Beckhoff/Omron beneficial)
• Experience with MES integration and OT/IT data flows
• Strong knowledge of industrial communication protocols:
• OPC UA, MQTT, Modbus, Profinet, EtherCAT
• Ability to test, validate, and troubleshoot data interfaces
• Experience reviewing:
• Machine control architecture
• PLC & HMI standards
• Understanding of:
• PackML & ISA-88 concepts
• OT network structures
• Ability to read and interpret EPLAN documentation
• Structured approach to documentation and reporting

• Battery manufacturing or high-volume production environments
• Experience working with multiple machine suppliers in complex projects
• Exposure to API-based integrations
• Multilingual skills (German and/or Chinese beneficial)

• Onsite role in Germany
• Flexibility to support shift patterns and weekend work during commissioning
• Available for long-term contract engagement

This is a rare opportunity to contribute to one of Europe's most advanced battery manufacturing programmes, working at the forefront of:

• Automation & digital manufacturing
• MES and data-driven production systems
• Large-scale industrial commissioning

You'll play a key role in bringing a next-generation gigafactory into full production, with strong potential for long-term extensions.

For more information or a confidential discussion, contact:
Nicky Carlton
(url removed)

Proactive Global is a specialist recruitment partner focused exclusively on automation, manufacturing, and advanced technology.

We support some of the world's leading industrial organisations with highly specialised engineering talent, offering access to complex and high-impact projects across Europe.

Proactive Global is committed to equality in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer.
Proactive Global is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.