Lead Mechanical Engineer

JR United Kingdom; Chesterfield; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK manufacturer is seeking a Mechanical Lead to enhance site performance and equipment reliability. In this role, you will lead a mechanical engineering team, manage maintenance processes, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. The position offers a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and opportunities for career growth in a stable environment.

Benefits

25 days holiday + 8 statutory bank holidays

Pension scheme (4% employee / 5% employer)

Private medical insurance

Early access to pay

Employee discounts via app

Technology purchase scheme

Cycle to work scheme

Free monthly company products

Qualifications

• Strong background in mechanical engineering from a heavy industrial environment.
• In-depth knowledge of pumps, bearings, and rotating equipment.
• Experience with hydraulics, pneumatics, and compressors is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical engineering team of 6 and manage maintenance schedules.
• Investigate mechanical failures and implement long-term solutions.
• Ensure Health & Safety compliance through audits and proactive monitoring.

Skills

Leadership

Root Cause Analysis

Continuous Improvement

Organisational Skills

Time Management

Education

HND in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office

SharePoint

Job description

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Hours: 39 hours per week, Monday to Friday (07:00–15:30 and 07:00–15:00 split)

Join a Leading UK Manufacturer

My client a respected UK manufacturer known for producing essential hygiene products. With a commitment to continuous improvement, high standards, and team development, this is a fantastic opportunity to step into a leadership role where you’ll shape site performance, drive equipment reliability, and influence future growth.

About the Role

As Mechanical Lead, you'll play a vital role in hitting the site’s performance and downtime targets. You’ll drive positive change by refining the preventative maintenance system, leading investigations into mechanical failures, and learning from past events to improve asset reliability. You'll also oversee spares procurement, repair control (internal and external), and support the planning and execution of CAPEX projects. Once up to speed, you’ll deputise for the Engineering Manager when required.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the mechanical engineering team of 6, plus 1 apprentice, setting daily tasks and weekly plans
• Manage both reactive maintenance and structured PPM schedules
• Investigate root causes of mechanical failures and implement long-term solutions
• Oversee spares management and refurbishment of repairable parts
• Support the installation and commissioning of capital projects
• Collaborate with the Engineering Manager and other departments to meet site KPIs
• Provide hands-on technical support when required
• Drive process improvements and implement change
• Ensure Health & Safety compliance through audits, SOPs, and proactive site monitoring
• Liaise with external contractors and suppliers, maintaining safety and quality standards
• Deputise for the Engineering Manager during absence

About You:

• Strong background in mechanical engineering, ideally from a heavy industrial environment
• In-depth knowledge of pumps, bearings, and rotating equipment is essential
• Experience with hydraulics, pneumatics, compressors, steam systems, and cranes is a plus
• HND in Mechanical Engineering (minimum); Bachelor's degree desirable
• Effective leader with strong organisational and time management skills
• Skilled in root cause analysis (RCA), continuous improvement, and change management
• Confident working independently and making decisions aligned with business needs
• Approachable, team-focused, and committed to supporting the development of others
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and comfortable using SharePoint

What’s in It for You?

• Competitive salary with regular reviews in line with inflation
• 25 days holiday + 8 statutory bank holidays
• Pension scheme (4% employee / 5% employer)
• Private medical insurance and employee healthcare support
• Early access to pay through financial wellbeing tools
• Access to employee discounts via app
• Technology purchase scheme and cycle to work scheme
• Free monthly company products
• Be part of a 24/7 operation with long-term stability and growth potential

If this sounds like your kind of challenge – or if you have any questions – get in touch using the details below, or click apply today.