Overview
Direct Acoustics is the UK market leader for acoustic and thermal solutions in temporary structures. For more than 15 years, we've helped hundreds of venues create unique experiences in the most challenging environments. We built our success with the Zone Array, the only highly directional speaker system for venues with noise problems and now we're rapidly expanding our Acoustic and Thermal lining unit with an ambitious five year plan to become the global leader.
We're looking for someone to join us and lead our linings team as we rapidly expand this side of the business. Our acoustic and thermal linings have evolved into a multi-million-pound range of solutions, with an ever-growing portfolio of customers. We are working on never-before-tried projects to transform and create venues in unique spaces.
This role will head up the operations and manufacturing of all our lining products. You'll lead the manufacturing and installation of a wide range of lining solutions to marquees and temporary structures, and support the design and development of new solutions.
As a small but growing organisation, your work will cover both operations management and hands-on work in our dedicated linings facility. We're open to people from a range of backgrounds, but experience in the marquee industry and with HF welders or dog welders is a big plus.
Core responsibilities:
Crew leadership & site management
* Lead a 2–6 person crew including sub‑contractors as required; organise Rota, daily briefings and toolbox talks.
* Run on‑site installs end‑to‑end: method sequencing, quality checks, client/venue liaison, and handover.
* Uphold performance standards; coach technicians; address under‑performance promptly.
* Maintain site documentation: RAMS, permits, inductions, sign‑offs, and photo records.
Manufacturing & quality
* Translate drawings into accurate cut lists and weld plans; programme/operate HF welders and cutting tables.
* Build, test‑fit, and finish linings, Kader profiles, and associated components.
* Implement SOPs and visual standards; carry out in‑process and final inspections.
* Reduce waste and rework through better nesting, jigs/fixtures, and training.
Planning, logistics & inventory
* Create the production schedule; plan capacity around seasonal peaks; coordinate with Projects and Sales.
* Control materials and consumables; set min/max levels; book in deliveries; manage batch traceability.
* Prepare kit lists, loading plans and vehicle checks; ensure sites have access, power and permits.
Equipment, tooling & maintenance
* Own daily/weekly maintenance for welders, cutters and hand tools; arrange service/calibration.
* Manage spares and PPE; ensure compliance with related regulation.
* Develop simple jigs/fixtures to improve repeatability and speed.
Continuous improvement
* Track KPIs; run weekly stand‑ups and monthly reviews; share improvements with the wider team.
* Contribute to design for manufacture/installation feedback loops.
Skills, experience & qualifications
Essential
* Proven experience leading a small site crew in temporary structures, tarpaulins/awnings, sailmaking, curtain‑siders or similar fabrications.
* Hands‑on proficiency with HF welding, industrial cutting tables and fabric handling.
* Ability to read drawings and produce cut lists/weld plans with tight tolerances.
* Strong organiser: scheduling, kit prep, vehicle loading and on‑site sequencing.
* UK driving licence; comfortable driving vans; travel/overnights as required.
* Confident communicator with clients, venue managers and contractors.
Safety & compliance
* RAMS authoring and delivery; Working at Height; manual handling.
Desirable attributes:
* IPAF, PASMA, Emergency First Aid at Work.
* CAD for nesting/mark‑up; basic MRP/ERP use.
* Jigs/fixtures design; simple QA documentation.
* Forklift ticket; B+E (trailer) entitlement.
Behaviours we value
* Player‑coach: leads from the front, sets pace and standards.
* Calm under pressure: peak periods and tight turnarounds don't rattle you.
* Quality mindset: takes pride in workmanship and neat, safe sites.
* Practical problem‑solver: fixes, adapts and improves.
Working pattern & travel
* Base at our Kirdford workshop; typical split c. 60% factory & office / 40% site, flexing with season and workload.
* Travel throughout the UK; some overnights and occasional weekend work during peaks; rare overseas projects.
Rewards & benefits
* Salary: £40,000–£52,000 DOE.
* Overtime/TOIL: structured policy for peaks and unsociable hours.
* Subsistence: travel time, overnight allowance and meal policy.
* Pension, twenty‑one days annual leave plus bank holidays (rising with service).
* Uniform and PPE provided; training and certification budget.
* Modern workshop, quality tools and equipment; progression pathway as the linings unit scales.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £40,000.00-£52,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company events
* Company pension
* On-site parking
Work Location: In person
Reference ID: DAS04