Operations and Engineering Manager
Location: NewportSalary: £65,000 - £75,000 per annumHours: Full-time
The Role
We are recruiting for an experienced Operations and Engineering Manager to join a high-precision manufacturing environment within advanced engineering sectors such as semiconductor, automation, or precision machining.
This is a senior leadership role responsible for driving performance across machining, tooling, maintenance, and workshop operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and scalable production capability.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead daily operations across maintenance, machining, tooling, and workshop functions
* Develop operational strategies to support production targets, equipment uptime, and long-term capability growth
* Drive alignment between engineering, production, facilities, quality, and supply chain teams
* Build and manage KPIs, dashboards, and planning systems to support data-driven decision making
Machining and Tooling
* Oversee CNC machining, manual machining, toolmaking, and complex component manufacture
* Lead tooling development, refurbishment, and optimisation for precision processes
* Collaborate with suppliers to improve tool life, accuracy, and process capability
* Ensure machining operations meet tight tolerances and reliability requirements
Advanced Manufacturing and Equipment
* Support installation, commissioning, and optimisation of high-precision production equipment
* Lead Facility Acceptance Testing and equipment validation activities
* Coordinate utilities, equipment layouts, and routing for new tools and process equipment
* Apply structured problem solving to resolve equipment, tooling, and process issues
Workshop and Facilities
* Manage central workshop operations including machining, fabrication, and engineering support
* Lead facility expansions, layout planning, and contractor coordination
* Develop equipment specifications, evaluate quotations, and support procurement decisions
Maintenance and Reliability
* Develop and implement maintenance strategies using modern methodologies and digital tools
* Build a self-sufficient maintenance function supporting complex manufacturing equipment
* Ensure compliance with safety standards, preventative maintenance schedules, and operational readiness
Leadership and Development
* Build and develop multi-skilled engineering and operations teams
* Lead recruitment processes and select high-quality candidates
* Mentor engineers and technicians on best practice across machining, tooling, and safety
* Promote a strong safety-focused and inclusive culture
About You
* Proven experience in operations leadership within machining or advanced manufacturing environments
* Strong knowledge of CNC machining, manual machining, and toolmaking
* Experience in tooling development and precision engineering
* Understanding of equipment integration, utilities, and complex manufacturing environments
* Experience managing workshops, maintenance, and reliability strategies
* Strong planning, scheduling, and KPI management capability
* Experience working with suppliers, procurement, and technical stakeholders
* Strong commitment to safety and compliance
Qualifications
* Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering
How to Apply
To apply for the Operations and Engineering Manager position, click Apply Now and upload your CV. A member of our recruitment team will contact you to discuss your application and next steps.