At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engineering activities, drive performance improvements, and manage a multi-skilled team.
- Company: Join one of the UK’s largest and most complex manufacturing sites.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, 25 days holiday, and employee assistance programme.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a high‑impact leadership role focused on continuous improvement.
- Qualifications: Experience in mechanical engineering and proven leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for an Area Engineering Manager to join our Kemsley Paper Mill and play a key role in driving performance within one of the UK’s largest and most complex manufacturing sites.
In this role, you’ll take full ownership of engineering delivery within your designated area—leading a multi-skilled team to maximise reliability, performance, and continuous improvement. Working in close partnership with Production and other operational teams, you’ll ensure that engineering excellence underpins everything we do. This is a high‑impact leadership position where you’ll combine technical expertise, people leadership, and strategic thinking to deliver safe, efficient, and cost‑effective operations.
Responsibilities
- Lead all engineering activities within your area, covering both planned and reactive maintenance
- Drive improvements in asset reliability, availability, and performance
- Ensure full compliance with Health, Safety, and Environmental standards, embedding a strong safety culture
- Own and deliver against engineering KPIs, working closely with the Area Production Manager to optimise machine performance
- Identify, scope and deliver engineering improvement projects
- Manage budgets effectively, ensuring cost‑efficient delivery of all activities
- Analyse performance data to eliminate repeat and single‑point failures
- Embed a proactive maintenance approach, with a strong focus on condition‑based monitoring
- Lead the planning and execution of 7‑day maintenance plans and major shutdowns
- Ensure effective breakdown response through strong coordination with shift teams
- Develop your team through regular 1:1s, performance reviews, and structured development plans
Qualifications
- Significant experience in mechanical engineering, ideally within paper, process or heavy industry
- Working knowledge of Electrical & Instrumentation (E&I) disciplines
- Proven experience leading and developing multi‑skilled engineering teams
- Strong understanding of maintenance strategies, including planned and condition‑based maintenance
- Data‑driven mindset, with the ability to turn insights into tangible improvements
- Highly organised, structured and able to manage competing priorities
- A proactive, ownership‑driven leader who thrives on continuous improvement
- Committed to building and sustaining a high‑performing, collaborative team culture
Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Qualifying Sick Pay scheme
- Pension scheme and Life insurance
- Share Save scheme
- Income Protection
- 25 days holiday plus Bank Holidays
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Virtual GP, Occupational Health and free Flu vaccine
- Cycle to Work and shopping discounts
Area Engineering Manager in England employer: DS Smith
At Kemsley Paper Mill, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where engineering excellence is at the forefront of our operations. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through structured development plans and regular performance reviews, ensuring that our team members thrive in their careers. With competitive benefits, a strong safety culture, and a collaborative atmosphere, we provide a rewarding workplace for those looking to make a meaningful impact in one of the UK's largest manufacturing sites.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Area Engineering Manager in England
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like DS Smith, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Area Engineering Manager in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to DS Smith specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at DS Smith
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with DS Smith, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like DS Smith value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
