Lead Engineer Sector: Food Manufacturing Location: Suffolk Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent Salary: £60,500 - £65,000 p/a Hours: Monday to Friday - Days Are you a practical, forward-thinking engineering professional ready to help shape the future of a major UK food production facility? We’re seeking an experienced Lead Engineer to take responsibility for a key automated manufacturing unit and help drive performance, reliability, and continuous improvement across the department. * Please note this client does not offer Visa sponsorship, only candidates with full Right to Work in the UK and relevant experience to this role will be considered. The successful candidate must also have a full UK driving license with access to their own vehicle. About the Role As the Lead Engineer, you’ll oversee a core team of Engineers (1 per shift) working across fully automated production lines — including robotics, automated cranes, and complex packing systems. This role requires someone who can balance strategic leadership with hands-on engineering expertise. Standard hours: Monday to Friday, 8-hour days May be occasional need to stay later or be available during off-hours for emergencies 1 in 8 weekend cover – compensated with time off Company Benefits Company Pension - matched up to 10% 26 days holiday 8 Bank Holidays Healthcare via Salary Sacrifice Scheme) Electric Vehicle scheme, staff discounts & wellbeing support Professional membership paid annually Option to purchase additional holiday Onsite gym Ongoing learning & development Generous employee referral scheme Key Responsibilities Lead, mentor, and develop a small team of Engineers. Provide technical support and hands-on assistance where needed. Drive reliability, efficiency, and safety across the APU. Be the go-to point of contact for any engineering-related issues. Contribute to long-term engineering strategy and site-wide improvement plans. Collaborate across departments on ongoing capital projects and innovation. What We’re Looking For Vocational training certification in Engineering. Relevant safety certificate. A detailed understanding of industrial mechanical plant. Strong technical, on-the-tools engineering experience. Proven leadership skills – able to motivate, manage and develop a small team. Experience in automated, fast-paced manufacturing environments (food/FMCG desirable). Comfortable balancing hands-on support with higher-level strategic planning. Flexible, pragmatic, and confident making decisions under pressure. With new projects in motion, millions invested, and a team committed to continuous improvement, this is more than just a job — it's a chance to lead transformation in one of the most important parts of the site. If you're ready to take your engineering leadership career to the next level, please click to apply now, or submit your CV to lana@isqrecruitment.co.uk or call 01603 369500 for more information.