At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead an engineering team while managing maintenance schedules and hands-on projects.
- Company: Join The Sterling Choice, a growing player in the food manufacturing industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy a full-time role with competitive pay based on skills and experience.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team, making impactful improvements in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Must have relevant engineering qualifications and experience in a senior role.
- Other info: Contact Gianni for a chat if your CV isn't ready yet!
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Are you an Engineering Team Lead who wants more than just fixing breakdowns and ticking boxes. This is a hands-on leadership role in a fast-moving manufacturing environment that’s had multi-million-pound upgrades and investment poured into the site. New kit. New systems. Higher standards. I need someone who can step up and lead from the front.
You’ll report directly to the Engineering Shift Manager and work closely with the Maintenance Manager, production teams and operators. When the Shift Manager isn’t on site, you’ll be the one in charge.
This is a role for someone who can work independently, make decisions, and isn’t afraid to challenge standards when they’re not being met, all while keeping safety, quality and hygiene front and centre.
What you’ll be responsible for
You’ll take a leadership role over a team of mechanical, electrical, multiskilled and semi-skilled engineers. This will be on a 4on 4off days and nights shift.
You will:
- Ensure health and safety standards are followed at all times, including COSHH and safe machine operation
- Train, coach and assess engineers and operators on equipment and best practice
- Work alongside visiting engineers to deliver site improvements and capital projects that add real value
- Ensure all equipment documentation is completed accurately and passed to the correct departments
- Prioritise and issue work in the absence of the Shift Engineering Manager or Maintenance Manager
- Drive safe systems of work, permits, PPE usage and professional behaviour
- Maintain clean, organised work areas in line with 5S standards
- Ensure engineering stores are stocked correctly
- Carry out temperature monitoring checks
- Use utilities efficiently and minimise waste
- Accurately capture engineering labour and parts using the PPM system (SAP)
The role is hands-on. You’ll spend long periods on your feet, sometimes working at height and in challenging conditions. This is a real engineering leadership role, not a desk-based position.
What I’m looking for
Essential:
- Time-served or skilled fitter with a minimum of four years’ industrial experience
- Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude
- Proven fault-finding and problem-solving ability
- IT literate and confident using maintenance systems
- Able to make sound decisions and organise time effectively
- Shows initiative and leads by example
- Previous supervisory or leadership experience
Desirable:
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Experience in food manufacturing or processing environments
- Experience with hydraulics and pneumatics
- Experience working with high-throughput processing machinery
Why this role stands out
The company are investing heavily in this site with multi-million-pound upgrades, modernised equipment and a clear long-term vision for continuous improvement. This isn’t about keeping old machinery alive. It’s about building a reliable, high-performing engineering function and giving the right people the opportunity to grow with it.
If you want a role where leadership matters, investment is real, engineering is respected and progression is earned, this is worth your time.
Engineering Team Lead employer: The Sterling Choice
Contact Detail:
The Sterling Choice Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Engineering Team Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the food manufacturing industry. Understanding the specific challenges and technologies used in this sector can give you an edge during interviews, showing that you're not just a general engineer but someone who is ready to tackle industry-specific issues.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your leadership skills. As an Engineering Team Lead, you'll need to manage a team effectively. Be prepared to discuss your previous experiences in leading teams, resolving conflicts, and motivating others to achieve their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare examples of your hands-on engineering work. Since the role involves both management and practical engineering tasks, be ready to share specific projects where you've successfully combined these skills, particularly in maintenance or improvements.
✨Tip Number 4
Network within the industry. Reach out to current or former employees of The Sterling Choice or similar companies on platforms like LinkedIn. This can provide you with insider knowledge about the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Engineering Team Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in engineering leadership and hands-on maintenance. Emphasise any previous roles as an Engineering Supervisor or Team Lead, and showcase your multi-skilled capabilities in both mechanical and electrical engineering.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses the responsibilities mentioned in the job description. Discuss your experience managing teams, handling maintenance schedules, and implementing process improvements. Show enthusiasm for the food manufacturing industry and how you can contribute to their success.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly list your qualifications, including any recognised apprenticeships or certifications in engineering. If you have experience working in fast-paced manufacturing environments, make sure to mention this as it aligns with the job requirements.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects attention to detail, which is crucial in engineering roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Sterling Choice
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Engineering Team Lead, you'll be expected to manage a team effectively. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, focusing on your communication and conflict resolution skills.
✨Demonstrate Technical Expertise
Be ready to discuss your hands-on engineering experience, especially in mechanical and electrical roles. Highlight specific projects where you implemented improvements or solved complex problems.
✨Understand the Industry
Familiarise yourself with the food manufacturing sector and its unique challenges. Showing knowledge about industry standards and health & safety regulations will demonstrate your commitment and preparedness for the role.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewer
Think of insightful questions to ask about the company's culture, team dynamics, and future projects. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.