Engineering Department Manager

ZipRecruiter; Selsey; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 57,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in the fresh food sector is seeking a dynamic Engineering Department Manager to lead a talented team in Selsey. This hands-on role involves overseeing engineering operations, driving continuous improvement, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. The company values innovation and offers genuine opportunities for skill development and career progression. Join a passionate team committed to excellence in manufacturing, where your leadership will make a significant impact on operational success and team growth.

Benefits

Amazing Benefits

Career Progression Opportunities

Inclusive Culture

Skill Development Programs

Qualifications

• Proven experience in an engineering leadership role within manufacturing.
• Ability to support, mentor, and train apprentices.

Responsibilities

• Manage a team of engineers to optimise performance.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational performance.

Skills

Engineering Leadership

Problem Solving

Health and Safety Regulations Knowledge

PLC and Control Systems

Team Development

Communication Skills

Education

HNC or equivalent in Engineering

Job description

Job Description

Engineering Department Manager | Selsey | West Sussex | Salary: £50,000-£57,000 | Plus Shift Allowance | Amazing Benefits

Natures Way Foods is a leading manufacturer of prepared salads, coleslaw, and "food-to-go" products for supermarkets and retailers. We work closely with farmers across Europe and pride ourselves on our inclusive culture and diverse workforce spanning 39 different nationalities. Our four manufacturing facilities produce over 326 million units annually. As we expand our production lines, there are genuine opportunities for skill development and career progression within our organization.

We are seeking talented Engineering Department Managers to join our growing team in Selsey, West Sussex. You will oversee a team of engineers to ensure efficient manufacturing operations, manage maintenance activities, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and ensure compliance with safety and quality standards in line with NWF standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a team of engineers to optimise performance.
• Ensure all maintenance activities are conducted safely and in compliance with relevant regulations.
• Oversee planned and reactive maintenance to minimise downtime and maximise equipment efficiency.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational performance and reduce costs.
• Collaborate with production and quality teams to support manufacturing objectives.
• Ensure proper documentation and reporting of engineering activities and equipment performance.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting expertise to resolve engineering issues.
• Monitor engineering budget and resources effectively.
• Support training and development initiatives to upskill engineering staff.
• Manage contractors, ensuring work is carried out to standard with necessary permits, method statements, and risk assessments.

The Engineering Department Manager role is hands-on, leading and directing the engineering team to ensure the PPM schedule is delivered on time. This role works closely with Technical, Production, Hygiene, Logistics, H&S, Finance, and Supply Chain teams.

Skills & Experience

• HNC (or equivalent) qualification in Engineering.
• Proven experience in an engineering leadership role within manufacturing.
• Ability to support, mentor, and train apprentices.
• Strong problem-solving skills for complex engineering issues.
• Ability to motivate and develop a team.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations, including PUWER, LOLER, and COSHH.
• Hands-on experience with PLCs and control systems.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.

About You

• Professional and positive attitude.
• Strong engineering skills.
• Self-motivated and proactive.
• Coaching and mentoring abilities.
• Excellent relationship-building and communication skills at all levels.
• Team player with initiative.
• Meticulous and solution-focused.
• Flexible and adaptable.

What Success Looks Like

We value passionate individuals with a can-do attitude and ambition to succeed. Our environment fosters high standards, innovation, and continuous improvement. Join our passionate and dedicated team committed to being the best in fresh food. Apply now and become part of our family!