Manufacturing Manager

ReQuire Consultancy LTD; Gillingham; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A forward-thinking manufacturer in Gillingham is seeking a hands-on Mechanical Engineer to lead engineering operations. You will be responsible for ensuring efficient machinery operation, managing a team, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate will possess strong mechanical expertise, CNC programming skills, and leadership qualities. With a competitive salary up to £50,000 and benefits like 25 days holiday and on-site parking, this role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of engineering within a growing business.

Benefits

Salary up to £50,000

25 days holiday + bank holidays

On-site parking

Access to a staff gym

Qualifications

• Proven engineering leader with hands-on troubleshooting experience.
• Ability to programme and operate CNC machinery.
• Experience managing factory machinery and facilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the site engineering team.
• Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical issues quickly.
• Deliver continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Mechanical engineering skills

CNC programming and operation

Leadership and communication

Problem-solving skills

Creativity in product development

Education

HNC/HND or degree in Mechanical/Manufacturing/Production Engineering

Tools

CAD/CAM

Job description

Are you a hands‑on mechanical engineer who thrives in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment? Do you have the leadership skills to inspire a team while driving innovation and continuous improvement? This is a fantastic opportunity to take ownership of engineering operations within a forward‑thinking manufacturer that's investing heavily in re‑engineering and product innovation.

The Opportunity

In this role you'll be responsible for the maintenance, reliability, and continuous improvement of production machinery and site infrastructure. As a key leader in the business, you'll combine day‑to‑day operational oversight with a strategic focus on long‑term growth.

You’ll also play a central part in a major re‑engineering project, initially focused on a hygiene product range before expanding into natural and bespoke products. Working closely with the design team, you'll bring fresh ideas to product development, using your mechanical know‑how and CNC expertise to create precision solutions that set new standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the site engineering team, ensuring machinery runs efficiently and downtime is minimised
• Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical issues quickly and effectively
• Deliver continuous improvement initiatives and capital projects
• Collaborate with product design on re‑engineering and product development projects
• Operate and programme CNC machinery to produce precision components
• Oversee facilities and equipment maintenance across the site
• Promote Health & Safety best practice at all times

About You

We're looking for a proven engineering leader with strong mechanical expertise and a proactive, problem‑solving mindset. You'll combine practical knowledge with the ability to inspire and influence others.

• Solid mechanical engineering background with hands‑on troubleshooting experience
• Ability to programme and operate CNC machinery
• Experience managing factory machinery and facilities
• Strong leadership, organisation, and communication skills
• A creative, practical approach to product development and process improvement
• HNC/HND or degree in Mechanical/Manufacturing/Production Engineering (or equivalent)
• Bonus: CAD/CAM experience, Lean/CI knowledge (Six Sigma, Kaizen, etc.)

What's on Offer

• Salary up to £50,000 depending on experience
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays
• 39‑hour working week (Mon‑Fri, early finish Fridays)
• On‑site parking and access to a staff gym
• Opportunity to shape the future of engineering in a well‑established, growing business