Lead Maintenance Engineer (FMCG)
CT15, East Kent
Mornings & Afternoon Shifts Mon-Fri
£50,000 Salary per annum
Are you an Experienced Maintenance Engineer within the food production or FMCG industry? If yes, read on….
My client is a well established, independent, privately owned business which has been operating for over 25 years, based within commutable distance from Canterbury, Dover, Folkestone, Sandwich and Margate. They are seeking a hands-on Chief Engineer / Lead Maintenance Engineer to take responsibility for their fully automated production line and small engineering team. This role is critical to ensuring smooth production, minimise downtime, and the continued efficiency of the facility. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced engineer with FMCG or food & drink production background to step into a key role.
Key Responsibilities: Lead Maintenance Engineer:
1. Full responsibility for the maintenance, operation, and performance of the automated production line.
2. Lead all preventative and reactive maintenance
3. Oversee the on-shift team during production; provide leadership, support, and direction.
4. Supervise and work with shift leaders who carry out first-line maintenance, changeovers, and routine checks.
5. Take the lead on more complex breakdowns and repairs (. gearboxes, conveyors, bearings).
6. Ensure compliance with hygiene and H&S standards.
7. Support a professional, safe, and efficient culture on the shop floor.
Experience & Skills Required: Chief Engineer:
8. A strong background with the maintenance of machinery that would be found in an FMCG environment
9. Strong mechanical engineering skills (conveyors, gearboxes, hydraulics, pneumatics); basic electrical knowledge an advantage.
10. Proven experience in fault finding, strip-down, and repair of production machinery.
11. Knowledge of bottling/packaging lines or transferable industries (. food, beverage, confectionery, or FMCG).
12. Experience managing a team of people
13. Hands-on approach — able to step in and run/repair machinery where required.
14. Professional attitude
Salary & Benefits: Lead Maintenance Engineer
15. Monday-Friday shifts: 05:00–15:00 or 15:00–01:00.
16. £50,000 per annum (DOE).
17. Pension scheme
18. Holiday Allowance
19. Long-term progression and development available