Job Specification: Workshop Manager (Hands-On Mechanical Fitter)
Location: North West England
Department: Workshop / Service & Repairs
Reports to: Operations Manager / General Manager
Overview:
An established engineering company is seeking a skilled and hands-on Workshop Manager with a background as a Mechanical Fitter, specialising in the disassembly, inspection, and retrofitting of industrial gearboxes. The role involves leading a small workshop team while remaining actively involved in mechanical fitting tasks. The ideal candidate will have experience with gearbox repair and refurbishment, as well as team leadership in a workshop setting.
Key Responsibilities:
Oversee day-to-day operations in the mechanical workshop.
Allocate jobs, set daily priorities, and manage workloads to meet deadlines.
Ensure full compliance with health & safety procedures and quality standards.
Conduct safety briefings, inspections, and maintain safe working practices.
Liaise with other departments to ensure smooth job flow and customer satisfaction.
Hands-On Mechanical Fitting
Strip down and inspect various industrial gearboxes and drive components.
Carry out mechanical repairs, retrofits, and reassembly work to specification.
Replace bearings, seals, shafts, and other key mechanical components.
Use precision measuring tools to document tolerances and wear.
Operate workshop equipment such as hydraulic presses, grinders, and torque tools.
Quality & Documentation
Maintain accurate service records, including inspection and build reports.
Ensure repair work is completed to customer and internal quality standards.
Provide feedback to engineering or technical teams on product condition and improvements.
Team Leadership
Support and train junior fitters or apprentices in mechanical techniques and safety.
Promote a clean, organised, and efficient workshop environment.
Assist with recruiting and developing workshop team members.
Required Skills & Experience:
Time-served Mechanical Fitter or similar background.
Strong experience with gearbox disassembly, repair, and retrofit.
Prior leadership or supervisory experience in a workshop environment.
Excellent mechanical fault-finding and problem-solving skills.
Proficient in reading engineering drawings and technical specifications.
Basic understanding of hydraulic or electric drive systems (advantageous).
Comfortable using workshop IT systems for job tracking and reporting.
Qualifications:
NVQ Level 3 or equivalent in Mechanical Engineering or Fitting.
Overhead crane, FLT, or lifting equipment certification preferred.
Health & Safety training (e.g. IOSH/Manual Handling) beneficial.
Working Conditions:
Full-time, permanent position.
Workshop-based with standard weekday hours.
Occasional site work or overtime may be required.
Benefits:
Competitive salary (DOE)
Overtime opportunities
Pension scheme
Training and development support
Stable role within a well-established engineering business