Lead Engineer — Site Ops & Continuous Improvement

ELIS; Bishop Auckland; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

29 days holiday

EAP (Employee Assistance)

Competitive salary

33 days holiday

Pension & healthcare

Day shift

Career development

National opportunities

Job summary

Elis is seeking an experienced Lead Engineer based in Bishop Auckland to support the Engineering Manager and lead a high-performing team. You will work with production teams to improve equipment effectiveness and deliver the site’s business objectives.

This role offers national coverage for career development, a clear progression path, and a collaborative environment with a strong focus on safety and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in industrial maintenance or production environments.
• Previous supervisory or management experience in engineering.
• Strong technical background (electrical, mechanical, or steam systems).
• Relevant qualification (Degree, HND, HNC, NVQ Level 3, or equivalent).
• Excellent communication, leadership, and team-building skills.
• Ability to analyse data, influence decisions and drive improvements.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• NEBOSH/IOSH or QHSE qualifications desirable.

Responsibilities

• Support the Engineering Manager in leading the engineering function and act as deputy when required.
• Ensure compliance with company QHSE policies, regulations, and safety standards.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives including overall equipment effectiveness and environmental impact reduction.
• Plan, organise and coordinate maintenance activities including PPM schedules and corrective works.
• Provide hands-on technical support while mentoring engineers and apprentices.
• Support installation, testing, maintenance, and repair of site equipment and machinery.
• Manage engineering activities during periods of leadership absence and ensure performance targets are met.
• Work with suppliers to source parts and improve operational efficiency.
• Promote a strong safety culture and ensure training compliance across the team.

Skills

Industrial maintenance

Supervisory experience

Electrical/Mechanical/Steam

Leadership

Communication

Data analysis

Organisational skills

NEBOSH/IOSH or QHSE desirable

Education

Degree/HND/HNC/NVQ3 or equivalent

Tools

N/A

Job description

Elis is seeking an experienced Lead Engineer based in Bishop Auckland to support the Engineering Manager and lead a high-performing team. You will work with production teams to improve equipment effectiveness and deliver the site’s business objectives.

This role offers national coverage for career development, a clear progression path, and a collaborative environment with a strong focus on safety and continuous improvement.