Engineering Manager

We are one of the country's largest bus operators – and our engineering teams are working at the forefront of bus technology. Nationwide, we are investing in state-of-the-art new buses, and in the workshops and people that service them. A First Bus depot is the perfect environment to continue growing your engineering know-how by working on our brand new Electric Vehicles. We will support your ongoing development and provide a career path to follow.

About The Role

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Engineering Manager to lead our engineering team and oversee the day-to-day operations of our workshop and depot infrastructure. This is a critical leadership role within our organisation, responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, and cost-effective engineering operations in line with regulatory and company standards.

The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering operational excellence, maintaining fleet availability, and driving continuous improvement across the engineering function.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, motivate, and support a team of skilled engineering professionals
• Oversee the effective running of the depot and engineering workshop
• Ensure full compliance with Health, Safety, Environmental, and Engineering policies and legislation
• Monitor and control departmental budgets and costs
• Drive performance to minimise vehicle downtime and lost mileage
• Conduct staff training, performance reviews, and development planning
• Ensure compliance with statutory vehicle maintenance requirements and quality standards
• Maintain strong communication with senior management and cross-functional teams
• Develop and implement engineering processes and continuous improvement initiatives
• Manage subcontracted engineering work and contractor performance
• Uphold a positive and proactive safety culture across the team

Candidate Requirements

• Proven experience in an engineering management or supervisory role
• NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent qualification) in Mechanical Engineering or related field
• Strong knowledge of vehicle maintenance legislation (VOSA, MOT, safety inspections, etc.)
• Demonstrable leadership and team development skills
• Competent in the use of relevant IT systems including SAP and MS Office
• Working knowledge of safe systems of work, risk assessments, and engineering standards
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• Ability to work flexibly to meet operational needs
• A full PCV license and/or forklift truck license (or willingness to obtain one) is desirable

Key Performance Indicators

• Fleet availability and spare fleet targets
• Engineering cost control (labour and materials)
• Health, safety, and environmental compliance
• Workshop efficiency and productivity
• MOT first-time pass rates and VOSA audit outcomes
• Repeat defect reduction
• Team development and attendance management
• Stock control and depot utilities management

Why Join Us?

This is an excellent opportunity to take on a strategic and rewarding leadership role within a well-established engineering department. You will be supported by a collaborative management team and provided with the tools and resources to succeed. We are committed to professional development, continuous improvement, and maintaining a positive working environment.

If you are an experienced engineering professional looking to make a significant impact and lead a dedicated team, we encourage you to apply.

Rewards & Benefits

• Your health is important to us which is why we offer Simply Health & Smart Health for you and your dependents at no cost to you! This offering includes cash back benefits across optical & dental as well as virtual GP appointments, mental health support and nutrition and fitness advice.
• Our EAP provision offers 24hr, 365 days a year mental health support.
• We are also committed to your financial wellbeing, and we offer a platform with many discounts on high street brands and supermarkets etc.
• Working at First you also receive discounted train travel for you and your family after 6 months service as well as a free bus pass.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• 25 days' holiday + bank holidays.
• Pension scheme and chance to buy discounted First Group shares.
• Flexible working.

We put a big focus on physical and mental wellbeing at First Bus. We recognise that anyone can be affected by the stresses and strain of work, or life outside it. You'll find a range of health-promotion initiatives, and you will have 24/7 access to our confidential Employee Assistance Programme.

Please apply now. We look forward to receiving your application.

Public transport serves everyone, whatever their differences. At First Bus, we want to be an employer open to you, no matter what your differences are. We aspire to be an inclusive organisation because diverse backgrounds, thinking and experiences bring so many benefits to our customers, communities and people. We welcome applications from all.

Applicants are advised that background checks will be conducted as a standard part of our recruitment process.