Workshop Controller

Autotech Recruit; Radcliffe; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Autotech Recruit is seeking a Workshop Controller in Radcliffe, Manchester to lead vehicle preparation and workshop workflows. The role suits an experienced technical leader eager to move into management, overseeing the preparation process from arrival to retail readiness.

You will manage workloads, appraise vehicles, coordinate work with bodyshops, organise MOT testing, and coach the in-house team to maintain high standards. A full UK driving licence and strong leadership are essential.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Workshop Controller, Vehicle Preparation Manager or similar role.
• Experience within an independent automotive environment.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities.
• A proactive and hands-on approach.
• Good understanding of vehicle preparation and workshop operations.
• The ability to work independently and make decisions confidently.
• A full UK driving licence.

Responsibilities

• Managing and prioritising daily workshop workloads.
• Conducting initial vehicle appraisals.
• Coordinating all mechanical, cosmetic and preparation work.
• Liaising with external bodyshops and repair providers.
• Organising MOT testing and vehicle movements.
• Managing and supporting the in-house preparation team.
• Monitoring job progress and workshop efficiency.
• Ensuring vehicles are prepared and presented to retail standards within agreed timescales.
• Maintaining effective communication across all departments.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Organisational skills

Vehicle prep

Communication

Job description

Workshop Controller

Radcliffe, Manchester
£35,000 – £40,000 Basic Salary
Monday to Friday | 8:00am – 5:00pm

An established and highly respected prestige and performance vehicle retailer is looking to recruit a Workshop Controller to join its busy operation in Radcliffe.

This is an excellent opportunity for either an experienced Workshop Controller or an ambitious Senior Technician looking to take the next step into a leadership position. The successful candidate will play a key role in managing vehicle preparation, workshop workflow and staff performance, ensuring vehicles are prepared efficiently and to the highest standards before retail sale.

As Workshop Controller, you will be responsible for overseeing the entire vehicle preparation process from arrival through to retail readiness.

Duties will include:

• Managing and prioritising daily workshop workloads
• Conducting initial vehicle appraisals
• Coordinating all mechanical, cosmetic and preparation work
• Liaising with external bodyshops and repair providers
• Organising MOT testing and vehicle movements
• Managing and supporting the in-house preparation team
• Monitoring job progress and workshop efficiency
• Ensuring vehicles are prepared and presented to retail standards within agreed timescales
• Maintaining effective communication across all departments

This position would suit someone who is highly organised, understands the importance of workshop efficiency, and has the confidence to lead a team and keep jobs moving.

We are looking for a strong character with a professional and authoritative approach who can effectively manage people, deadlines and workshop operations.

You will ideally have:

• Previous experience as a Workshop Controller, Vehicle Preparation Manager or similar role
• Experience within an independent automotive environment
• Strong organisational and time-management skills
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities
• A proactive and hands‑on approach
• Good understanding of vehicle preparation and workshop operations
• The ability to work independently and make decisions confidently
• A full UK driving licence

Candidates currently working on the tools who are looking to step into their first management role are encouraged to apply. The right attitude, leadership qualities and understanding of workshop operations are just as important as previous controller experience.

What’s on Offer?

• £35,000 – £40,000 basic salary, depending on experience
• Monday to Friday working hours
• No weekends
• Opportunity to join a successful and growing prestige vehicle business
• Long‑term career development potential
• Stable and supportive working environment

If you’re a driven automotive professional with the ability to lead from the front and keep a busy workshop running efficiently, we’d love to hear from you.

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