Lead Robotics & Automation Engineer

Company Overview

Koin Limited is a fast-growing, multi-brand D2C e-commerce group headquartered in Poole, UK. It operates across the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia and is working towards £100 million in annual revenue by 2030.

The business combines e-commerce, manufacturing, and product innovation, with increasing investment into automation, systems, and operational scalability.

The brand portfolio includes:

• The Koin Club – licensed collectible coins and medallions
• Tilly Pig – financial literacy products for children
• Jonny’s Sister – personalised gifts and homeware
• Bubba Boo – eco-conscious baby, toddler and adult clothing
• The Wessex Mint – precious metals savings and investment platform
• Pastel Sixteen – contemporary fashion and accessories

Role Overview

This is a senior, hands-on engineering role focused on designing and implementing robotics and automation systems within Koin’s precious metals and minting production environment.

You will take ownership of automation within this area, working directly on the design, build, and deployment of systems that improve precision, throughput, and efficiency in manufacturing.

This role is primarily hands-on. You will be expected to build and deliver practical solutions yourself, working closely with production teams in a live environment.

AI is an area of growing importance within the business. You will be expected to stay up to date with relevant advancements and apply AI tools and techniques where they add practical value, particularly in areas such as inspection, optimisation, and process improvement.

You will work directly with the Managing Director and play a key role in modernising production capability through automation.

Key Responsibilities

Robotics & Automation Development

• Design and implement automation solutions for minting and precious metals production
• Build systems that improve consistency, reduce manual handling, and increase throughput
• Work across mechanical, electrical, and software elements of automation systems

Hands-On Engineering

• Develop control logic and software for automation systems
• Integrate PLCs, sensors, actuators, and machine vision where required
• Prototype, test, and refine systems directly within the manufacturing environment

Process Improvement

• Work closely with production teams to identify automation opportunities
• Improve existing workflows through practical engineering solutions
• Ensure systems are reliable, maintainable, and suited to day-to-day operations

AI & Modern Tooling

• Apply AI tools where useful, particularly in areas such as visual inspection and optimisation
• Use modern development tools to accelerate design and problem-solving
• Continuously explore improvements in robotics and automation technologies

Supplier & Technology Selection

• Source appropriate components and suppliers for automation systems
• Evaluate solutions based on performance, cost, and reliability
• Work with external partners where required

Ownership

• Take responsibility for automation within the precious metals production area
• Act as the go-to person for robotics and automation within the team
• Deliver practical, working systems rather than theoretical designs

Requirements

Essential

• Proven experience building or implementing automation or robotic systems
• Background in robotics, automation, mechatronics, or a related engineering field
• Hands-on experience with industrial automation, PLCs, or control systems
• Ability to write and understand software used in automation (Python, C++, or similar)
• Experience integrating sensors, actuators, or vision systems
• Strong problem-solving ability in real-world environments
• Comfortable working on-site in a manufacturing setting
• Ability to work independently and take ownership of projects

Desirable (but not essential)

• Experience in manufacturing, metals, or precision engineering environments
• Experience with robotics platforms or robotic arms
• Exposure to computer vision or AI tools such as OpenCV or similar
• Experience with CAD or mechanical design
• Familiarity with Industry 4.0 or smart manufacturing concepts

What We Offer

• £80,000 – £100,000 salary depending on experience
• Fully on-site role in Poole
• High level of ownership and autonomy
• Opportunity to build and implement systems from the ground up
• Direct exposure to senior leadership and decision-making
• Long-term opportunity to grow with the business as automation capability expands