Lead Mechanical Maintenance Engineer

Progressive Recruitment; Manchester; On-site; GBP 53,000 - 63,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global manufacturing company in the UK seeks a Lead Mechanical Maintenance Engineer to manage a team and improve maintenance practices. The role offers a salary up to £63k alongside benefits like pension contributions and ongoing training. Ideal for those looking to lead while remaining hands-on in engineering tasks, this position is based near Wigan in a supportive environment focused on staff development.

Benefits

5% employee and 7% employer pension

24 days holiday plus bank holidays

UK Healthcare Cash Plan

Discounts and cashback through Reward Gateway

Life Assurance Policy

Cycle to work scheme

Free on-site parking

Ongoing training and development

Qualifications

• Strong background in mechanical maintenance within a production or manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience with Reliability‑Centred Maintenance.
• A hands‑on leadership style with the ability to coach and support others.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of engineers to deliver planned and reactive maintenance.
• Manage mechanical maintenance across two production lines.
• Drive the transition from reactive to proactive maintenance using RCM principles.
• Oversee installation, inspection and servicing of mechanical systems.
• Work closely with internal teams and external contractors.

Skills

Team leadership

Mechanical maintenance

Communication skills

Continuous improvement mindset

Organizational skills

Education

NVQ Level 3 or HNC in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Computerised Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS)

Job description

Lead Mechanical Maintenance Engineer - Up to 63k - Days-Based - Permanent Role

Are you a hands‑ Mechanical Maintenance Engineer with a strong background in reliability and a natural flair for leading small teams?

We’re recruiting for a Lead Mechanical Maintenance Engineer to take charge of a close‑knit team on a busy production site of a Global Manufacturing Company. This is a days‑based role where you’ll manage four direct reports and around ten indirect reports, including planners, electricians, fitters and apprentices on a large manufacturing site. As Lead Mechanical Maintenance Engineer, you’ll be responsible for helping drive the shift from reactive to proactive maintenance, embedding Reliability‑Centred Maintenance principles and improving asset performance across two production lines.

It’s a great opportunity for someone who enjoys mentoring others and shaping the future of the maintenance function. You’ll be joining a family‑run business that invests heavily in staff development and offers training and certification in reliability and professional management.

Key Responsibilities of Lead Mechanical Maintenance Engineer

• Lead a team of engineers to deliver planned and reactive maintenance to high standards
• Manage mechanical maintenance across two production lines, ensuring equipment runs safely and efficiently
• Drive the transition from reactive to proactive maintenance using RCM principles
• Use CMMS systems to manage, asset data and performance tracking
• Oversee installation, inspection and servicing of pumps, conveyors, compressors, hydraulics and pneumatics
• Ensure full compliance with LOTO procedures and Safe Systems of Work
• Work closely with internal teams and external contractors to align expectations and outcomes
• Identify and implement improvements in safety, reliability and efficiency
• Support critical maintenance periods and occasional callouts

What We’re Looking For

• NVQ Level 3 or HNC in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience
• Strong background in mechanical maintenance within a production or manufacturing environment
• Proven experience with Reliability‑Centred Maintenance
• Confident using Computerised Maintenance Management Systems
• A hands‑on leadership style with the ability to coach and support others
• Strong communication and organisational skills
• A proactive mindset with a focus on continuous improvement

What You’ll Get in Return

• Salary up to 63k depending on experience
• 5 % employee and 7 % Employer pension
• 24 days holiday plus bank holidays (rising with service)
• UK Healthcare Cash Plan (claim back on dental and optical treatments)
• Reward Gateway (discounts and cashback across hundreds of retailers)
• Life Assurance Policy
• Cycle to work scheme
• Free on‑site parking
• Ongoing training and development, including certification in reliability and professional management

Team Culture and Environment

You’ll be joining a mixed team that includes planners, electrical fitters and an apprentice. It’s a supportive, family‑run environment where people are encouraged to grow, share ideas and take pride in their work. If you’re looking for a role where you’ll be trusted to lead, supported to develop and given the space to make a difference, this could be the right fit for you.

Location: Wigan

This Lead Mechanical Maintenance Engineer role is based near Wigan and is easily commutable from Preston, Ormskirk, St Helens, Skelmersdale, Liverpool, Warrington, Bolton, Blackburn, Southport, Chorley, Wigan, Skelmersdale and surrounding areas - all within roughly a 60‑minute drive. It’s ideal for someone looking to step into a leadership role while staying hands‑on with engineering.

If that sounds like you, apply below.