Job Description
A great opportunity has arisen for an Engineering Manager to join an expanding company within the plastics manufacturing industry. The business operates multiple production sites supported by significant investment in new extrusion lines, advanced machinery, and continuous R&D to maintain high standards in quality, service, and innovation.
Job Overview:
The Engineering Manager will lead the engineering function across multiple extrusion and conversion manufacturing sites. Their mission is to maximize machinery reliability, deliver cost-effective maintenance strategies, and drive continuous improvement across all engineering activities to support safe, high-quality, and efficient production.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead and manage engineering and maintenance teams across all production facilities.
* Implement robust planned preventive maintenance (PPM) and predictive maintenance programs.
* Maintain optimal performance of extrusion lines, conversion machinery, and associated plant equipment.
* Ensure rapid, safe response to breakdowns and support uninterrupted production flow.
* Lead engineering elements of new line installations, equipment upgrades, facility expansions, and automation initiatives.
* Develop ROI-driven business cases for future capital investments aligned with long-term operational strategy.
* Ensure full compliance with industry regulatory standards, including ISO 9001.
* Maintain structured engineering documentation, SOPs, and safe-working procedures.
* Support internal and external audits as required.
* Drive engineering improvements targeting efficiency, waste reduction, product quality, and process control.
* Collaborate with technical and R&D teams to test new materials, improve film properties, and enhance extrusion performance.
* Introduce lean methodologies and engineering best practices across the operation.
* Recruit, coach, and lead a high-performing, multi-skilled engineering team.
* Support employee development in line with the organisation’s strong emphasis on training and growth.
Beneficial Skills / Qualifications:
* Strong leadership experience within plastics extrusion, flexible packaging, FMCG, or similar continuous-process environments.
* Technical competence in:
o Blown film extrusion systems
o Conversion and packaging machinery
o Electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic systems
* Experience with related accreditation standards.
* Proven delivery of maintenance strategies and engineering improvements.
* Excellent communication, problem-solving, and team leadership skills.
* Experience with heat-shrink films, stretch-capable films, or industrial packaging for sectors such as glass or furniture.
* Project management training (PRINCE2 / APM).
* Understanding of automation, PLCs, and control systems.
* Safety & Quality Focus
* Data-Led Decision Making
* Cross-Functional Collaboration