Deputy Head of Engineering

Job Title: Deputy Head of Engineering Location: Reading Salary: £55,000 – £60,000 per annum (dependent on experience) Shift Pattern: Week 1: 05:00 – 14:00 Week 2: 07:30 – 16:30 Week 3: 14:00 – 23:00 Overview: A leading manufacturing organisation is seeking a Deputy Head of Engineering to support the Head of Engineering in managing plant operations, maintenance, and utilities. This is an ideal opportunity for a senior-level engineer with hands-on maintenance experience and leadership capability who is looking to step into a strategic, people-focused position with a clear path toward progression into an Engineering Manager role. We’re prepared to wait for the right candidate who is motivated to grow and contribute to a high-performing engineering team. Key Responsibilities: Support and co-manage the day-to-day operations of the Engineering Department. Drive Health & Safety compliance across the department and wider site. Assist in planning, scheduling, and implementing all planned preventative maintenance (PPM) activities. Monitor and analyse plant and machinery performance, proactively addressing issues to reduce downtime. Help maintain and develop safe systems of work in collaboration with the Head of Engineering and H&S team. Supervise and support engineering personnel, contractors, and shift engineers. Oversee contractor activity, including permit issue and auditing of works. Participate in and lead machinery inspections and emergency repairs. Maintain oversight of spare parts management and storage systems. Assist with asset register development and key equipment installation reviews. Support the execution of CAPEX projects, including energy improvements and facility upgrades. Play a key role in recruitment, training, and mentoring of engineering staff. Contribute to and support audits, risk assessments, COSHH, and regulatory documentation. Attend and contribute to operational and safety meetings, stepping in for the Head of Engineering when required. Be available to support out-of-hours issues as part of a call-out rota. Provide budget-conscious quotations and cost control support for engineering activities. Promote a culture of continuous improvement and development across the engineering team. What We’re Looking For: Minimum 5 years’ experience in a hands-on maintenance engineering role in a fast-paced industrial or manufacturing environment. Proven leadership or mentoring experience, with the ability to inspire and develop others. A collaborative team player with a proactive, solutions-focused mindset. Strong understanding of engineering safety regulations, compliance, and maintenance best practices. Ambition to grow into an Engineering Manager position through structured succession planning and personal development. Excellent communication and planning skills, with the ability to manage both strategic and hands-on tasks. What’s on Offer: A competitive salary of £55,000 – £60,000 (DOE) Long-term career progression and training towards an Engineering Manager role Involvement in impactful projects and department leadership A structured shift pattern to support work-life balance A supportive team culture with a focus on development, safety, and continuous improvement This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced engineer with leadership ambition to make a real impact and grow their career. If you have the skills, mindset, and drive to help shape the future of engineering within a thriving operation — we want to hear from you. Apply today or get in touch with (url removed) for a confidential conversation