Process Engineering Manager
We are seeking a highly capable Process Engineering Manager to take ownership of engineering performance, operational efficiency, and continuous improvement within a heavy industrial manufacturing environment (machining experience highly desirable).
This is a pivotal, hands-on role for a Process Engineering Manager who thrives in fast-paced, high-output settings and is driven to make a tangible impact on production, reliability, and cost performance. This is not a traditional 9–5 position—this role demands presence, leadership, and accountability on the shop floor.
The Opportunity
As a Process Engineering Manager, you will play a critical role in aligning engineering with operations, ensuring processes are robust, efficient, and scalable. You will lead from the front, embedding a culture of continuous improvement while maintaining the highest standards of safety and performance.
Key Responsibilities
* Drive optimisation of manufacturing processes to maximise efficiency, output, and quality
* Act as a key engineering partner to operations, ensuring minimal downtime and maximum productivity
* Lead Continuous Improvement / World Class Manufacturing initiatives and cost reduction programmes
* Develop and manage maintenance strategies, including both planned preventative maintenance (PPM) and reactive response
* Lead, mentor, and develop a multi-skilled engineering team, including apprentices and junior staff
* Oversee CAPEX and OPEX budgets, ensuring effective investment and cost control
* Champion and enforce robust health & safety standards across all engineering activities
* Travel of up to 30% is required in this role
Requirements
* Proven experience as a Process Engineering Manager or in a similar senior engineering leadership role
* Background in heavy industry or machining environments (non-food preferred)
* Experience within large-scale or corporate manufacturing operations
* Strong leadership capability with a proactive, results-driven mindset
Technical Expertise
* CMMS systems and maintenance management
* Working knowledge of PLCs and automation systems
* Strong understanding of hydraulics, pneumatics, and high-pressure steam systems
* Root Cause Analysis tools (5 Why, Ishikawa, FMEA)
* Permit to Work (PTW) systems
* ERP systems such as Oracle
* Strong grasp of KPIs, performance metrics, and operational efficiency drivers
What You’ll Bring
* A hands-on, solutions-focused approach with the ability to operate at pace
* Strong mentoring and team development capability
* The ability to work autonomously and respond effectively to operational challenges
* A relentless focus on delivery, efficiency, and continuous improvement