FGS Agri is looking for an experienced, practical and hands-on Workshop Manager to lead our busy workshop team in Pluckley, Ashford. This is an exciting opportunity to join an established and growing business within the Heathcote Holdings Group, supporting the agriculture and utility sectors across the South East.
You will play a key part in keeping our fleet, machinery and specialist equipment operating safely and efficiently. This position would suit someone with strong mechanical experience who enjoys taking responsibility, solving problems, supporting others and being actively involved in the day-to-day running of a busy workshop.
The Role :
- Lead the maintenance and upkeep of a varied fleet, including farm contracting equipment, agricultural machinery, HGV units, tankers, trailers, pick-ups, vans, self-propelled machines and specialist equipment.
- Carry out MOT preparations, servicing, fault finding and repairs across the fleet.
- Undertake welding, fabrication and machining work where required.
- Diagnose and repair hydraulic and electrical issues.
- Manage the procurement of parts and consumables for the workshop.
- Coordinate work allocation, job flow, scheduling and labour planning for day-to-day workshop operations.
- Oversee inward goods, stock checks, dispatching goods and receipting invoices.
- Provide hands-on support and respond flexibly to wider business needs.
- Act as a technical adviser on key projects and support other areas of the business when required.
- Work closely with the team to keep clients updated on job progress and ensure clear, accurate communication.
- Support the implementation and development of electronic systems to record, file and store information.
What We Offer :
- A permanent, full-time role within an established and expanding business.
- A varied, hands-on position working with a wide range of machinery, vehicles and specialist equipment.
- The opportunity to take ownership of a busy workshop and make a real impact on day-to-day operations.
- A supportive, close-knit and family-orientated working environment.
- Monday to Friday working hours, with opportunities for overtime.
About You :
- Proven experience as an Agricultural Mechanic, LGV Fitter or in a similar hands-on mechanical role.
- A relevant qualification would be desirable.
- A full UK driving licence
- Ideally, at least five years’ practical experience in a relevant mechanical environment.
- Confident working under pressure, making decisions and prioritising work effectively.
- A positive, team-focused approach and the ability to work well within a close, family-orientated business.
- Able to work independently while also supporting and developing the wider workshop team.
- Computer literate, with working knowledge of Microsoft Office including Outlook, Word and Excel.
If you are a motivated and experienced Workshop Manager looking for a varied role where you can make a real difference, we would love to hear from you.
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Workshop Manager
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
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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!
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✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like FGS Agri, 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!
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 FGS Agri 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 FGS Agri
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with FGS Agri, 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 FGS Agri 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.
