Manufacturing Mechanical Engineer - UK\'s No.1 Soap FMCG

Overview

4 day week and no weekend work! We value your work-life balance. \”The Bar is Back\” – and we need your mechanical expertise, problem-solving mindset, and drive for innovation to help us scale from 20 million to 70 million bars a year. At Soapworks, we produce high-quality, sustainable soap products for leading global brands. We\’re looking for a proactive, hands-on Mechanical Engineer to keep our production lines running at peak performance as we expand operations. From optimising equipment reliability to enhancing machine efficiency and supporting continuous improvement projects, you\’ll play a key role in ensuring our factory operates safely, smoothly, and sustainably – enabling us to meet ambitious production targets while upholding the highest quality standards. At Soapworks, we do more than make soap – we craft a wide range of personal care products, including hair and body cleansers and aromatic oils. As part of our skilled engineering team, you\’ll help power this growth, contributing your expertise to a passionate and collaborative workforce set on shaping the future of sustainable manufacturing.

The Role at a Glance

Manufacturing Mechanical Engineer – Glasgow / On-site – Up to £44,000 per annum + 33 days holiday, rising with service – Plus Excellent Benefits Package Including Pension, Income Protection Benefit, Access to EAP, GP and Physio Services, Death in Service 3x Annual Salary and More…

Key Responsibilities

• Perform die changes, tool setups, and machine adjustments to meet production demands.
• Diagnose and repair mechanical faults quickly and safely to minimise downtime.
• Partner with teams to ensure equipment reliability and safety.
• Execute planned maintenance and condition monitoring to drive performance and reduce breakdowns.
• Pursue ongoing self-development to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Lead and contribute to root cause analysis for continuous improvement.
• Ensure exceptional housekeeping and engineering hygiene.
• Champion a safe, healthy work environment by following all H&S procedures.

Education/Qualifications

• HNC/HND in mechanical engineering required (or equivalent).

Experience/Skills/Knowledge

• Proven mechanical engineer with hands-on experience in high-speed, high-volume manufacturing – ideally in soap, personal care, or FMCG production.
• Expertise in pneumatics, hydraulics, pumps, and transmission systems.
• Skilled in automated packaging and palletising machinery, including flow wrappers, bundle wrappers, cartoners, and labellers.
• Experienced in GMP-regulated and hygiene-critical environments.
• Proficient in MMA and MIG welding, machining, and turning.
• Familiar with 10ml and 20ml bottle filling lines (a plus).
• Basic understanding of electrical power and control systems.

Aptitudes/Attributes

• Clear, confident communicator with strong written and verbal skills.
• Sharp attention to detail and expert fault-finding ability.
• Highly organised with excellent time management.
• Flexible, adaptable, and responsive to changing operational needs.
• Proven ability to boost equipment performance and efficiency.
• Skilled in CMMS and Microsoft Office tools.
• Positive, proactive, and solutions-focused with a strong problem-solving mindset.
• Thrives under pressure with strong resilience and focus.
• A true team player who builds great working relationships.

Other job requirements

• Clean driving license ideal but not essential

What’s on Offer

• Competitive Market Salary
• 4-weekly pay cycle
• 33 days holiday inclusive of bank holidays rising with service
• Pension
• Death in Service benefit of 3x basic salary
• Income Protection Benefit after 1 year in role
• Access to EAP and related services

Sounds like a good fit? Apply here for a fast-track path to our Leadership Team

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