Laboratory Lead

Austin Fraser; Fareham; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Laboratory Lead to oversee a dynamic Manufacturing Engineering team in a fast-paced aerospace environment. This role is pivotal in driving operational excellence and implementing key technical initiatives across materials and chemical processes. The successful candidate will lead improvement initiatives, ensure compliance with safety regulations, and foster a high-performance culture. With a competitive salary and benefits, this opportunity offers long-term growth potential and the chance to work on impactful projects that shape the future of aerospace engineering.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits package

37-hour work week with early Friday finish

Access to on-site facilities including parking and gym

Long-term growth potential

Comprehensive learning & development programs

Qualifications

• Degree qualified in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
• Background in materials engineering, including hardness and mechanical testing.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and coordinate a Manufacturing Engineering Team supporting multiple production areas.
• Drive performance, quality, cost, and safety goals across operations.

Skills

Leadership

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Materials Engineering

Mechanical Testing

Chemical Processes

MRP/ERP Systems

Production Planning

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

MRP/ERP Systems

Job description

We are working on behalf of a global Aerospace engineering and manufacturing business to recruit an experienced Laboratory Lead to join their team based in Titchfield. This position will play a critical leadership role, overseeing a Manufacturing Engineering team and driving key technical initiatives across both the materials and chemical process functions of the site.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead from the front, influence operational excellence, and shape the future of a high-performing team within a dynamic production environment.

What You'll Be Doing:

1. Oversee and coordinate a Manufacturing Engineering Team supporting multiple production areas.
2. Drive performance, quality, cost, and safety goals across operations.
3. Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure customer delivery targets and expectations are met.
4. Lead and support improvement initiatives, including Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma practices.
5. Manage resource planning, task allocation, and continuous performance evaluation for engineering staff.
6. Champion manufacturing documentation compliance and continuous improvement efforts.
7. Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
8. Lead NADCAP preparation and support relevant audit activities.
9. Guide new product introduction to ensure timely production readiness and delivery.
10. Promote a high-performance culture through coaching, leadership, and team engagement.

What We're Looking For:

1. Degree qualified in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
2. Background in materials engineering, including hardness and mechanical testing; metallurgical experience preferred.
3. Solid understanding of chemical processes such as surface treatments, alochrom, and anodising.
4. Hands-on approach with a passion for leading by example.
5. Strong working knowledge of MRP/ERP systems, inventory control, production planning, and logistics.
6. Experienced in Lean Manufacturing principles and variation reduction techniques.
7. Demonstrated leadership in cross-functional teams and project delivery.
8. Previous experience managing or supervising engineering teams.

What's in It for You:

1. Competitive salary and benefits package.
2. 37-hour work week with an early Friday finish.
3. Opportunity to work on challenging, high-impact projects.
4. Access to on-site facilities, including parking and gym.
5. Long-term growth potential with internal promotion opportunities.
6. Comprehensive learning & development through internal programs.
7. A company that puts wellbeing and safety first.

Additional Information: The successful applicant will be in contact with US ITAR-controlled technology. As a condition of employment, employees may be required to undergo additional screening.