Manufacturing Cell Leader

ReeVR; Polegate; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

ReeVR is seeking a Manufacturing/Machining Cell Leader in East Sussex to oversee the machining and finishing of precision components. The role suits candidates with previous supervisory experience or experienced Senior Machinists looking to take on more responsibility.

You will manage the day-to-day running of the cell, ensuring targets for quality, delivery and cost are met, while driving Lean improvements and maintaining safety and housekeeping standards.

Qualifications

• Strong background in machining and precision engineering.
• Experience directing teams in a manufacturing or engineering workshop environment.
• Proactive approach to problem solving and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Oversee machining and finishing operations from raw materials to finished components.
• Motivate and support shopfloor staff to meet production targets.
• Coordinate daily workloads with Planning and Purchasing to ensure schedules are met.
• Monitor production performance, identify issues, and implement practical solutions.
• Ensure materials and components are fully traceable throughout the process.
• Drive Lean Manufacturing, 5S and Kaizen initiatives to improve efficiency.
• Maintain high standards of quality, housekeeping and health & safety.
• Collaborate with other departments to support new product introduction and resolve manufacturing issues.

Skills

Machining

Leadership

Lean Manufacturing

5S

Kaizen

Quality control

Planning

Education

HNC/HND in Mechanical Engineering

Engineering apprenticeship

Job description

Manufacturing/Machining Cell Leader

Location: East Sussex
Salary: £40,000–£45,000 per annum
Hours: 40 hours per week, with an early finish at 3:30pm on Fridays

ReeVR Talent are currently recruiting for a Manufacturing Cell Leader / Senior Machinist to join a well-established, specialist engineering business based in East Sussex.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a high-technology manufacturing environment, overseeing the machining and finishing of precision‑engineered components. The business is open to candidates with previous team leadership experience, as well as experienced Senior Machinists who are looking to take on more responsibility and develop their careers.

The Role

You will play a key role in the day‑to‑day running of the manufacturing cell, ensuring production targets are achieved across quality, delivery and cost.

Responsibilities will include:

• Overseeing machining and finishing operations, from raw materials through to completed components.
• Supporting and motivating shopfloor employees to maintain workflow and achieve production targets.
• Coordinating daily workloads and working closely with Planning and Purchasing to ensure production schedules are met.
• Monitoring production performance, identifying issues and implementing practical solutions.
• Ensuring materials and components are fully traceable throughout the manufacturing process.
• Driving continuous improvement initiatives, including Lean Manufacturing, 5S and Kaizen.
• Maintaining high standards of quality, housekeeping and health and safety.
• Working closely with other departments to support new product introduction and resolve manufacturing issues.

About You

We are interested in speaking with candidates who have:

• A strong background in machining and precision engineering.
• Experience within a manufacturing or engineering workshop environment.
• Good knowledge of manufacturing processes, fabrication, assembly or testing.
• Previous supervisory or team leadership experience, or the ambition to step up from a Senior Machinist position.
• Experience working within a low‑volume, high‑precision manufacturing environment would be advantageous.
• A proactive, hands‑on approach to problem‑solving and continuous improvement.
• Strong organisational and communication skills.

An HNC/HND in Mechanical Engineering, an engineering apprenticeship or a relevant leadership qualification would be beneficial.