January 2026 start
Location : UK – Multi-Site (Travel Required)
Overview
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Fabrications and Welding Manager to lead the end-to-end fabrication and welding operations for the containers required for our Collection operation and associated heavy steel waste management equipment.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and oversee all fabrication and welding activities across UK sites specialising in skip and RoRo container repairs and manufacture
* Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for welding and fabrication that meet industry and customer-specific standards
* Ensure consistent compliance with quality benchmarks, including welding standards (BS EN ISO 9606, BS EN 1090) and in-house dimensional / strength specifications
* Ensure rigorous on-site risk assessments are carried out for all fabrication and welding activities, with appropriate safety measures implemented
* Implement structured production schedules to meet delivery commitments while optimising resource use, minimising waste, and reducing rework
* Provide hands‑on leadership to site supervisors, welders, and fabrication staff – ensuring alignment with company expectations on quality, output, and safety
* Drive continuous improvement through structured problem‑solving, root cause analysis, and lean manufacturing principles
* Lead internal project delivery for new product variants, custom builds, or production facility upgrades
* Engage directly with key stakeholders (e.g., sales, design, quality, clients, and suppliers) to align operational capability with commercial requirements
* Manage multi‑site staffing plans, skills development, recruitment, and performance management
* Maintain and enforce rigorous health and safety policies in line with UK legislation and industry best practices
* Ensure all lifting operations and working at height activities comply with LOLER regulations and relevant safety protocols
* Evaluate investment opportunities in tooling, jigs, robotics, and automation to improve throughput and competitiveness
* Oversee the management and traceability of all materials, including serial number tracking, batch control, and proper documentation across sites
* Manage stock control of raw materials, consumables, and components to ensure availability and cost efficiency across all sites
* Support costing, tendering, and delivery tracking for both standard and bespoke fabrication projects
* Ensure compliance with COSHH regulations regarding the use and storage of hazardous substances, including paints and chemical products used in fabrication
Qualifications & Experience
* Minimum 5 years’ experience in a senior fabrication / welding management role, ideally within skip, RoRo, heavy steel, or structural steel manufacturing
* Strong technical understanding of carbon steel fabrication, MIG welding, and thicknesses typically used in waste container manufacture (e.g., 3–10mm steel plate)
* Recognised vocational qualification in welding or fabrication (e.g., NVQ Level 3, City & Guilds, or equivalent)
* Experience leading teams across multiple locations and coordinating production workflows
* Demonstrable project management experience – able to manage timelines, costs, and resource plans
* Familiarity with relevant welding codes and standards (e.g., BS EN 1090, BS EN ISO 9606-1)
* Highly structured and process‑driven approach to planning, execution, and continuous improvement
* Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills – both on the shop floor and at senior level
* Full UK driving licence and flexibility to travel to fabrication sites
Desirable
* HNC / HND or Degree in Mechanical / Manufacturing Engineering
* Welding inspector qualifications (e.g., CSWIP 3.0 or 3.1)
* Experience in lean manufacturing, 5S, or Six Sigma environments
* ERP / MRP system experience
* Experience implementing or auditing to ISO 9001 or ISO 3834
* Exposure to business development or entrepreneurial activities, such as new product introduction, client engagement, or process automation initiatives
Personal Attributes
* Decisive, structured, and results‑oriented
* Entrepreneurial thinker – able to spot opportunities for improvement, innovation, or value‑add
* Practical and hands‑on leader with credibility on the shop floor
* Strong commercial awareness and customer‑focused approach
* Capable of influencing internal and external stakeholders
* Resilient, adaptable, and calm under pressure
What We Offer
* Competitive salary based on experience
* Company car or allowance
* Performance‑related bonus
* 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
* Pension scheme
* Career development opportunities in a growing business
* A collaborative team culture committed to quality and innovation
(DE&I Policy Statement)
#J-18808-Ljbffr