At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engineering projects from concept to completion in a unique whisky-producing region.
- Company: Join a leading manufacturing organisation in the drinks sector.
- Benefits: Experience life on Islay with a competitive salary and hands-on project ownership.
- Other info: Enjoy a close-knit community and outdoor pursuits on Islay.
- Why this job: Combine engineering challenges with the beauty of Scotland's iconic landscapes.
- Qualifications: Experience in project delivery within manufacturing or engineering environments.
Location: Isle of Islay, Scotland
Contract: 18 Month Fixed Term Contract
The Opportunity
We are working with a leading manufacturing organisation within the drinks sector to recruit a Project Engineer for an exciting 18-month fixed term opportunity on the Isle of Islay. This is a varied, hands-on role where you will take ownership of engineering and capital projects from initial concept and planning through to implementation and handover. Working closely with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering and EHS teams, alongside external contractors and suppliers, you will help deliver projects focused on improving reliability, safety, sustainability, efficiency and production capability.
For someone looking for something a little different, the location is a major part of the opportunity. Islay offers the chance to live and work in one of Scotland's most distinctive locations, internationally renowned for its whisky industry and surrounded by some of the country's most impressive coastline and scenery. It offers a completely different lifestyle from the Central Belt while providing the opportunity to work at the heart of one of Scotland's most iconic industries.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead engineering and capital projects from concept through to completion and handover.
- Develop project scopes, specifications, schedules and budgets.
- Coordinate contractors, suppliers and third-party engineering partners.
- Work closely with operational teams to deliver projects safely while minimising disruption to production.
- Manage project costs, expenditure, forecasting and variations.
- Support the development and planning of future capital projects.
- Provide technical input, including interpreting drawings and preparing project documentation.
- Monitor project progress, budgets, risks and key milestones.
- Ensure projects are delivered in line with relevant health & safety, engineering and quality standards.
- Provide regular project updates to key stakeholders and senior management.
About You
We are keen to speak with experienced Project Engineers, Project Managers or Engineers with strong project delivery experience gained within a manufacturing, process or industrial environment. Experience within distilling, brewing, food & drink or FMCG would be particularly relevant, although candidates from other engineering and manufacturing backgrounds are very much encouraged to apply.
You are likely to have experience of managing engineering projects through various stages of the project lifecycle and be comfortable working with contractors, operational teams and other stakeholders. An engineering qualification or relevant technical background would be beneficial, as would experience of capital expenditure, project budgeting and technical drawings. Formal project management qualifications such as APM or PMP would also be advantageous but are not essential. More important is a strong practical understanding of engineering project delivery, the ability to take ownership of projects and the communication skills to work effectively with people across different functions.
The Opportunity to Live & Work on Islay
For the right person, this is much more than an 18-month engineering contract. Islay is one of Scotland's most famous whisky-producing regions, home to a unique concentration of historic distilleries and an engineering environment unlike almost anywhere else in the country. Away from work, the island offers spectacular beaches, coastline, wildlife and outdoor pursuits, alongside a close-knit local community and a significantly different pace of life. Whether you already have experience within the whisky industry or simply like the idea of combining an interesting engineering challenge with 18 months living and working on one of Scotland's most iconic islands, this is an opportunity well worth exploring.
Project Engineer in Isle of Islay employer: Empower Talent
As a Factory Manager in North Lincolnshire, you'll join a dynamic food manufacturing company that values hands-on leadership and continuous improvement. With a competitive salary of £55,000, you will have the autonomy to shape operations and drive performance while being part of a culture that prioritises safety, quality, and employee development. This role offers the unique opportunity to make a significant impact within a forward-thinking business that recognises and rewards your contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Engineer in Isle of Islay
✨Get Your Hands Dirty in the Industry
For a temporary role in manufacturing, don’t shy away from physically visiting local factories and production sites. A friendly walk-in can often lead to spontaneous interviews or valuable connections, and can really help you get a sense of the workplace vibe.
✨Tap into Seasonal Hiring Windows
Manufacturing often sees spikes in hiring during particular seasons, like summer when production ramps up. Keep an eye on local job boards and community centres, or even visit seasonal job fairs—they’re golden for snagging those temporary roles we’re after.
✨Join Industry-Specific Communities
Consider joining online forums and social media groups specific to manufacturing. Sites like Reddit or even LinkedIn groups can give you insights into open positions and allow you to connect with current employees who might give you an edge in the hiring process.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Site!
With Empower Talent looking for temporary talent, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s often the fastest way to get your foot in the door, so make the most of it. Plus, it shows you're proactive—always a win!
We think you need these skills to ace Project Engineer in Isle of Islay
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Practical Skills:In manufacturing and production, hands-on skills are key! Make sure your CV showcases any relevant experience with machinery, quality control, or assembly line work. If you’ve got certifications related to operating specific equipment, don’t forget to include those too!
Focus on Flexibility and Adaptability:For a temporary role, employers are looking for candidates who can hit the ground running. In your cover letter, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly and work well under pressure. Share any experiences where you've successfully adjusted to changing circumstances or tight deadlines.
Include Specific Measurements of Your Impact:Manufacturing roles often revolve around efficiency and productivity. If you’ve previously worked in similar roles, be sure to quantify your achievements. For example, mention how you improved production rates or reduced waste – numbers stand out and show you mean business!
Express Your Interest in the Industry:Temporary roles can be a great stepping stone for future opportunities! Take a moment in your application to express why you’re interested in manufacturing and production. Showing genuine enthusiasm for the field can make a real difference and may keep doors open for upcoming positions!
How to prepare for a job interview at Empower Talent
✨Showcase Your Hands-On Experience
In the manufacturing and production world, they want to see that you can actually handle the tools and machines. Bring along any certifications you have or even pictures of projects you’ve worked on. We want to demonstrate that you're not just a theory person but someone who can jump right in.
✨Emphasise Safety Knowledge
Safety's a huge deal in manufacturing, so make sure you’re clued up about health and safety regulations. Be prepared to discuss how you've followed safety protocols in past roles. It's all about showing you can contribute to a safe working environment at Empower Talent.
✨Flexibility is Key
Since this is a temporary role, highlight your adaptability and willingness to step into different roles as needed. Share examples of times you’ve adjusted quickly to new situations or tackled varied tasks. We want to show you're the go-to person when things get busy!
✨Ask About Team Dynamics
In any temporary role, fitting in quickly is vital. Ask about team dynamics and collaboration processes during the interview. This shows you’re not only ready to contribute but also keen to blend into Empower Talent’s culture, making you a valuable asset.
