Job Description
The Operations & Engineering Manager is responsible for overseeing and improving the day-to-day operations of a small engineering and manufacturing business. This is a hands-on role combining planning, people management, production oversight, stock control and continuous improvement. The role is critical in ensuring work is delivered safely, on time, on budget, and to the required quality standards.
Key Responsibilities
Operations & Production
* Plan, coordinate, and oversee daily manufacturing and engineering activities
* Manage workflow, capacity planning, and job scheduling in co-ordination with the sales team to meet customer deadlines
* Ensure efficient use of labour, materials, and equipment
* Troubleshoot operational issues and remove bottlenecks quickly
* Support shop-floor activities where required in a hands-on capacity
People Management
* Line manage production and workshop staff
* Allocate work, set priorities, and monitor performance
* Support recruitment, onboarding, training, and skills development
* Foster a positive, practical, and safety-focused working culture
Health, Safety & Compliance
* Ensure compliance with UK health and safety legislation
* Maintain safe systems of work, risk assessments, and method statements
* Promote a strong safety culture across the business
* Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards and customer requirements
Quality & Continuous Improvement
* Oversee quality control processes and ensure work meets specifications
* Investigate non-conformances and implement corrective actions
* Drive continuous improvement initiatives to improve efficiency, quality, and cost control
* Support audits and customer inspections where required
Supply Chain & Planning
* Coordinate purchasing, stock control, and supplier relationships
* Ensure materials are available to meet production schedules
* Work closely with suppliers and subcontractors
Commercial & Admin Support
* Work with the Managing Director on production planning, costs, and margins
* Provide operational input into quotations and project planning
* Track KPIs related to delivery, efficiency, and quality
* Maintain accurate operational records and reports
Skills & Experience
Essential
* Background in engineering or manufacturing (practical understanding of production processes essential)
* Proven experience in an operations, production, or manufacturing management role
* Strong organisational and problem-solving skills
* Ability to manage people in a small, close-knit team
* Good working knowledge of health & safety requirements in a manufacturing environment
* Comfortable being hands-on and adaptable in a small business setting
Desirable
* Experience in a small or owner-managed business
* Formal engineering or manufacturing qualification
* Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement experience
* Experience with production planning or ERP/MRP systems
Personal Attributes
* Practical, proactive, and solutions-focused
* Strong communicator with a down-to-earth leadership style
* Comfortable wearing multiple hats
* Resilient and calm under pressure
* Committed to quality, safety, and continuous improvement
Working Conditions
* Primarily site-based in North Devon
* Full-time, permanent position
Salary & Benefits
* Salary £40,000 to £50,000 depending on experience.
* Pension scheme
* Holiday entitlement in line with UK statutory requirements
* This position is a key role in the growth and development of the business
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