Site Lead Engineer

Company Description KNAPP is a global leader in warehouse automation systems and software, serving e-commerce, retail, fashion, food, pharmaceutical, and manufacturing sectors. KNAPP UK Ltd, a subsidiary of KNAPP AG in Austria, delivers advanced intralogistics solutions in the UK, including fulfilment, conveying, and storage technologies. With over 1,700 installations worldwide, its UK clients include well-known brands such as John Lewis, Boots, Marks and Spencer, Staples, Clarks, British Gas, and Well. KNAPP designs, installs, maintains, and upgrades turnkey automation projects, providing comprehensive aftersales support. Its portfolio includes the OSR Shuttle™ automated storage and retrieval system, intelligent conveyor technology, ergonomic picking solutions, self-guided vehicles, robotic picking, overhead-conveying systems, and powerful warehouse software.

Role Description The Site Lead Engineer is a full-time, on-site position based in Chesterfield, responsible for overseeing the day-to-day engineering operations of an automated warehouse solution. This role coordinates and leads a multi-disciplinary engineering team, ensuring systems performance, uptime, and safety standards are consistently met. The Site Lead Engineer manages planned and reactive maintenance activities, diagnoses complex technical issues, and liaises with clients to plan improvements and upgrades. The position also involves monitoring KPIs, implementing continuous improvement initiatives, supervising third-party contractors, and ensuring compliance with health and safety procedures. The Site Lead Engineer collaborates closely with KNAPP project, software, and support teams to deliver reliable, high-quality service at the customer site.

Working Hours

Days role with some shift work (06:00-14:00/14:00-22:00) required to cover annual leave within the team.

Qualifications/Experience

• Strong experience in automation and electromechanical, including maintenance and fault-finding on automated material handling or similar systems.
• Proficiency with PLC-based control systems, industrial networks, and warehouse automation technologies such as conveyors, shuttles, sorters, and robotic equipment.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and coordinate engineering teams, allocate tasks, mentor colleagues, and manage workload in a fast-paced operational environment.
• Solid understanding of health and safety regulations, risk assessments, and safe working practices within industrial or warehouse settings. IOSH qualification is desirable.
• Effective communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to engage confidently with customer representatives and internal teams.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, including experience in root-cause analysis and continuous improvement of system performance.
• Relevant technical qualification (e.g., apprenticeship, HNC/HND, or degree in Engineering or related field). Level 3 electrical qualification required as a minimum.
• Experience in intralogistics, warehousing, or production environments, and familiarity with maintenance management systems and performance KPIs is beneficial.
• Ability to analyse data, create detailed reports and present to key stakeholders.
• Experience in managing budgets is desirable.