Depot Engineering Manager

Michael Page (UK); Newcastle upon Tyne; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 69,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent recruitment firm is seeking an experienced Engineering Manager for a transport operator in the Newcastle area. This role focuses on leading engineering functions, ensuring compliance with Health & Safety regulations, and enhancing fleet reliability. Ideal candidates will possess strong leadership skills and a proven ability to manage budgets and performance metrics. Offering a competitive salary of circa £60,000, this permanent position presents the opportunity to develop a dedicated engineering team in a supportive environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Permanent position

Leadership opportunities

Qualifications

• Strong people leader with experience in engineering teams within transport or automotive sectors.
• Deep understanding of Health & Safety legislation and compliance.
• Proven ability to manage budgets and drive performance improvements.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day engineering functions ensuring compliance and reliability.
• Oversee depot Health & Safety and manage engineering KPIs.
• Recruit, develop, and manage engineering staff.

Skills

People leadership

Health & Safety compliance

Fleet management

Maintenance planning

Strategic thinking

Communication

Job description

• The salary for this role is 60k.
• This role will be based from either North Shields or Consett.

About Our Client

Our client is a well‑established transport operator known for maintaining high standards of safety, reliability, and customer service. They are committed to continuous improvement, innovation, and fostering a supportive environment for their engineering teams.

Key responsibilities

• Lead all day‑to‑day engineering functions, ensuring safe and reliable vehicles are delivered in line with legislation and company standards.
• Oversee depot Health & Safety, driving best practice and maintaining strong compliance.
• Manage financial budgets, engineering KPIs, fleet reliability, and availability targets.
• Maintain accurate engineering records, oversee contractor management, and ensure effective stock control of spare parts.
• Develop action plans to improve vehicle reliability, reduce defects, and minimise lost mileage.
• Recruit, develop, and manage engineering, stores, and cleaning staff, including performance, absence, and two‑way communication.
• Enhance interior and exterior vehicle quality, liaising with subcontractors when required.
• Maintain productive relationships with internal stakeholders and the union.
• Oversee building maintenance across all systems (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, lifting equipment, structural elements, etc.).
• Ensure all documentation meets DVSA standards and company procedures.
• Promote succession planning, identify training needs, and support staff development.
• Uphold employment law, discipline procedures, and company policies.
• Carry out any additional duties required by the depot's operational needs.

The Successful Applicant

• A strong people leader with experience managing engineering teams within a fleet, automotive, transport, or similar environment.
• Deep understanding of Health & Safety legislation and engineering compliance standards.
• Proven ability to deliver against budgets, drive performance improvements, and enhance reliability metrics.
• Skilled in fleet management, maintenance planning, and contractor oversight.
• Confident communicator with the ability to build positive relationships across departments and with trade unions.
• Strategic thinker who can identify opportunities for efficiency, quality improvements, and operational enhancement.
• Organised, proactive, and committed to developing a high‑performing engineering workforce.
• Comfortable supporting afternoon shifts when necessary.

What's on Offer

• Competitive salary of circa £60,000 per annum.
• Permanent position based in one of two North East locations, within the Transport & Distribution industry.
• Opportunities to lead and develop a dedicated engineering team.
• Be part of a medium-sized organisation with a focus on operational success.

If you are an experienced Engineering Manager looking for a rewarding role, apply now to take the next step in your career!