Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to construct high-quality rubber bellows and fabric expansion joints.
- Company: Join James Walker, a global leader in manufacturing fluid sealing products.
- Benefits: Enjoy standard hours with potential overtime and opportunities for site work.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team focused on quality and efficiency in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Strong background in Mechanical Engineering or Manufacturing required; leadership skills essential.
- Other info: Work in a state-of-the-art facility with a commitment to safety and operational excellence.
Bredbury, Stockport
About James Walker
A privately owned global manufacturing organization, supplying a vast range of high performance fluid sealing products and associated knowledge-based services to virtually every industry sector. With state-of-the-art skills in materials technology, particularly relating to elastomers, polymers, composites and engineering plastics plus extensive expertise in precision machining of exotic alloys for metallic seals, and tension control fasteners for bolted joints.
Your Role
An opportunity has arisen for a Workshop Supervisor at James Walker Townson Ltd, the premier UK based manufacturer of expansion joints and bellows to the Power Industry. The team of 12 people construct bespoke rubber bellows and fabric expansion joints at the premises in Bredbury, Stockport for an international client base. Standard hours of work Monday to Thursday, 07:00 to 16:00 and Friday 07:00 to 12:00 (39 hours per week). The ability to work overtime is an expectation, there is also scope for site work.
Key responsibilities:
- Leadership of a committed team whose role it is to construct product following lean manufacturing principles, to the highest quality in an efficient and timely manner.
- Develop and drive a “Right First Time” culture to achieve a 100% OTIF production target.
- Identify and deliver operational improvements to maximize health and safety, quality, efficiency and output.
- Monitoring and managing stock levels.
- Manage the site installation activities of manufactured products.
- Support Supply Chain Director in inter-company communication.
About you:
- Strong Mechanical Engineering / Fabrication / Manufacturing qualification and/or experience.
- The ability to handle difficult situations and work under pressure.
- Competent in the use of Syteline or a similar ERP system.
- Effective communication skills (written and oral) with both direct reports and management.
- Proven ability to self-motivate and motivate a team.
- Proven ability to direct and supervise a production team.
- Competent in the use of Microsoft Office.
- Production experience.
- Knowledge and experience in the principles of quality assurance, quality control and H&S legislation.
- Customer focus, flexible and adaptable in approach to ensure delivery performance.
Workshop Supervisor employer: James Walker
Contact Detail:
James Walker Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Workshop Supervisor
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with lean manufacturing principles, as this role heavily emphasises efficiency and quality. Understanding these concepts will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the company's goals.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your knowledge of ERP systems, particularly Syteline, since it's mentioned in the job description. Being able to discuss how you've used similar systems in past roles can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team in a high-pressure environment. This will showcase your leadership skills and ability to motivate others, which are crucial for the Workshop Supervisor position.
✨Tip Number 4
Research James Walker and their products, especially in relation to the Power Industry. Showing that you understand their market and challenges can impress interviewers and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Workshop Supervisor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Job Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Workshop Supervisor position. Understand the key responsibilities and required qualifications to tailor your application accordingly.
Tailor Your CV: Update your CV to highlight relevant experience in mechanical engineering, fabrication, and manufacturing. Emphasise any leadership roles or team management experience that aligns with the job requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of lean manufacturing principles and your ability to drive a 'Right First Time' culture. Mention specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your skills and achievements.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at James Walker
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Workshop Supervisor, you'll be leading a team. Be prepared to discuss your previous leadership experiences and how you've motivated teams in the past. Use specific examples to illustrate your ability to handle difficult situations and maintain a positive work environment.
✨Demonstrate Your Technical Knowledge
Make sure you brush up on your mechanical engineering and fabrication knowledge. Be ready to discuss relevant qualifications or experiences that relate to the role, especially in lean manufacturing principles and quality assurance practices.
✨Familiarise Yourself with ERP Systems
Since the role requires competence in Syteline or similar ERP systems, it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with these tools. If you have experience with any ERP systems, be ready to talk about how you've used them to improve efficiency and manage stock levels.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and how you handle pressure. Think of scenarios where you've successfully navigated challenges in a production environment, focusing on your decision-making process and the outcomes.
