Overview
- Job title: Maintenance Engineer
- Salary: Up to £50,000
- Hours: 4 on / 4 off day shift, 6am - 6pm
- Location: Northampton
- Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent
Purpose
Our client, a leading name in the regulated manufacturing sector, is seeking a skilled Maintenance Engineer to join their Engineering team. This is a key position ensuring that production machinery is maintained, reliable, and operates to the highest standards of safety and efficiency.
Responsibilities
- Execute planned and unplanned maintenance activities across electrical and mechanical systems.
- Deliver quick, effective responses to equipment breakdowns with thorough root cause analysis and follow-up.
- Troubleshoot and repair high-speed packaging and processing equipment, including PLC-controlled machinery.
- Work on a diverse range of equipment including industrial microwaves, gas ovens, high-voltage transformers, slicers, pressers, sealers, metal detectors, and refrigeration systems.
- Support production with equipment optimisation, start-ups, and ongoing machine performance monitoring.
- Maintain accurate records in the CMMS system and ensure timely completion of scheduled tasks.
- Liaise with equipment suppliers for new installations, commissioning, and upgrades.
- Coach and support junior team members and apprentices.
- Uphold all food safety and health & safety protocols, including lockout/tagout and contamination control procedures.
- Ensure robust shift handovers and accurate reporting of issues, parts usage, and performance.
- Drive continuous improvement by participating in problem-solving, data entry, and cost control initiatives.
- Adhere to site environmental, safety, and quality standards and procedures at all times.
Required Skills & Experience
- Time-served Maintenance Engineer with a recognised Electrical or Mechanical trade qualification.
- Minimum 3 years' post-apprenticeship experience in a regulated manufacturing environment.
- Proven multi-skilled ability (electrical & mechanical).
- Strong fault-finding and diagnostic skills, especially in high-speed production environments.
- Experience with PLCs, automation systems, pneumatic/hydraulic equipment, and industrial utilities.
- Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings and technical manuals.
- Familiarity with planned preventative maintenance (PPM) systems.
- Excellent awareness of Quality and Health & Safety standards.
- Competent IT skills and experience using CMMS or similar systems.
- Strong team player with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- High attention to detail and results-oriented with a proactive approach.
- Flexible and willing to adapt to business needs, including shift patterns and training.
- Experience with high-voltage systems and industrial ovens/microwaves advantageous.
Key Food Safety Responsibilities
- Strict adherence to GMP, SOPs, and all food safety protocols.
- Ensure maintenance activities prevent product contamination and uphold product integrity.
- Participate actively in audits and compliance checks.
- Report any food safety concerns immediately and clearly communicate resolutions.
Key Health & Safety Responsibilities
- Ensure all work areas and equipment are assessed for safety before work begins.
- Wear required PPE at all times and follow site H&S policies strictly.
- Always follow lockout/tagout procedures and never bypass safety devices.
- Report all incidents, near misses, and unsafe conditions promptly.
- Conduct all tasks in a safe, controlled manner with an awareness of mechanical, electrical, chemical, and environmental risks