Job Description
Engineering Manager - Northampton, United Kingdom, NN36XJ
Join Our Team at Smurfit Westrock!
Are you searching for a workplace that values you and your growth? At Smurfit Westrock, we’re committed to sustainability, employee well-being, and personal development.
About Us
We are a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging. Our focus is on the health and safety of our employees, the well-being of our communities, and delivering exceptional service to our customers.
We support our team members to reach their full potential in an inclusive environment that values diversity.
The Role
We are looking for a forward-thinking Engineering Manager to lead and drive reliability, efficiency, and continuous improvement across our plant operations. This is a key leadership role responsible for minimising equipment downtime, optimising maintenance strategies, and overseeing capital and infrastructure projects—while maintaining the highest standards of safety, compliance, and operational excellence.
The main responsibilities of this role include:
1. Responsibilities:
* Ensure full compliance with all Health & Safety (H&S), environmental, and insurance legislation (UK/EU standards).
* Conduct and manage risk assessments, implement control measures, and ensure contractor safety.
* Drive site-wide energy optimisation initiatives.
* Lead the engineering team to deliver efficient, cost-effective support for production and plant infrastructure.
* Develop and implement preventive maintenance schedules and internal maintenance systems.
* Act as a mentor and technical authority for engineers and technicians.
* Collaborate cross-functionally to embed a continuous improvement culture.
* Manage the departmental budget with a focus on cost efficiency and strategic resource planning.
* Support negotiations and management of service contracts.
* Contribute to strategic planning around labour, energy use, and equipment upgrades.
* Build strong communication links between maintenance and production to ensure operational alignment.
* Partner closely with Production and Shift Managers to plan and coordinate engineering activities.
* Design and deliver equipment maintenance training for production staff.
* Champion development opportunities for the engineering team and conduct regular performance reviews.
* Lead full lifecycle project management of CAPEX and infrastructure projects, ensuring safe, timely, and budget-compliant delivery.
Person Specification:
* Degree or HND in Engineering or related technical field.
* Extensive maintenance experience within a highly automated, batch production, or FMCG environment.
* Demonstrated leadership and team management skills.
* Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and innovation abilities.
* Proven track record in delivering capital investment projects.
* Strategic mindset with strong planning and execution capabilities.
* Solid budgeting and resource management expertise.
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
* A passion for continuous improvement and operational excellence.
What We Offer
* Competitive salary & benefits, including annual leave, pension, and a Cycle to Work scheme.
* Ongoing training and development opportunities.
* 24/7 confidential support for you and your family.
* Flexible working options and family-friendly policies.
* Guaranteed interview for candidates meeting essential criteria.
Ready to make an impact?
Apply today and help us build a sustainable future together.
Note: Smurfit Westrock reserve the right to only shortlist candidates who meet both the Essential and Desirable Criteria. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their background or beliefs.
#J-18808-Ljbffr