Pilot Centre Lead

DS Smith; Redditch; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading packaging company in Redditch is seeking a Pilot Centre Lead to oversee day-to-day operations of the pilot plant. This role involves ensuring operational management, compliance with safety standards, and hands-on support for equipment and training. Ideal candidates will have a degree in Engineering, strong problem-solving skills, and a comfort in engaging with stakeholders and guests. The position includes responsibilities for operational administration and quality management, making it vital for the success of the pilot plant.

Qualifications

• Educated to a degree level or equivalent experience.
• Ability to manage operations both hands-on and strategically.
• Strong technical understanding of materials and box performance.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operations of the pilot plant.
• Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
• Coordinate training and maintenance of equipment.

Skills

Problem-solving

Operational management

Technical understanding

Customer engagement

Creative solutions

Education

Degree in Engineering

Tools

SAP

Forklift

Job description

Reporting to the Head of Design Community Excellence, the Pilot Centre Lead is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the pilot plant, which supports testing and scaling of new products and processes. As the Pilot Centre Lead, you will be responsible for operations management, process and equipment management, and providing hands‑on support to users of the pilot machines. The role ensures safety, compliance and maintenance as required.

Responsibilities

• Overall responsibility for the facility, ensuring safe, secure and effective day‑to‑day operation
• Manage all pilot plant operations, including all machines and technologies in adherence to safety and quality standards
• Responsible for the administrative tasks needed to run the facility, including purchase orders and the use of our SAP system
• The day‑to‑day face of the facility contributing to hosting and visitor engagement when needed
• Diagnose and troubleshoot problems with equipment and analytical instruments; operate the machines as needed
• Coordinate and ensure legally compliant, high‑quality training, including delivery and oversight of other trainers
• Central point of contact regarding any feasibility assessment, test and/or trials setting with the selected Accel8 champions from the Innovation teams
• Responsible for ensuring that equipment is maintained and operated safely in accordance with regulations
• Manage maintenance contracts and servicing agreements for the equipment on site
• Act as back up when needed to move products/materials with forklift
• Liaise with the landlord on all building‑wide service related matters and maintain a Guide to Pilot Services for the location in an up‑to‑date form at all times

Qualifications

• Educated to a degree level (Degree in Engineering preferred), or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Ability to manage the pilot operations, both hands‑on and strategically
• A problem‑solver and engineer at heart with the ability to trouble‑shoot and find creative solutions
• Strong technical understanding of our materials and box performance factors
• Technical understanding of 2D & 3D drawings
• Forklift licence required (if the candidate doesn’t hold a licence, it will be required to obtain one)
• Familiar with UK Safety regulations
• Comfortable engaging with senior stakeholders and high‑profile customer visitors