Interim Project Engineer in Devon

Interim Project Engineer in Devon

Devon Temporary No home office possible
Michael Page Engineering & Manufacturing

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead engineering projects in food manufacturing, ensuring safety and efficiency.
  • Company: Established FMCG organisation with global operations.
  • Benefits: Competitive daily rate, immediate start, and impactful project experience.
  • Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and collaboration.
  • Why this job: Make a difference in food safety and production efficiency while developing your engineering skills.
  • Qualifications: Degree in Engineering and experience in food manufacturing processes.

The Interim Project Engineer will play a critical role in delivering engineering, capital, and improvement projects that support safe, efficient, and reliable food manufacturing operations. The role is based in Gateshead and requires a hands-on approach to ensure project goals are achieved effectively and efficiently.

Key responsibilities for this interim Project Engineer role include:

  • Lead end to end planning, execution, and delivery of engineering projects (capex & opex) within scope, budget, and timeline.
  • Develop project scopes, feasibility studies, business cases, and ROI calculations.
  • Create and manage project plans, timelines, budgets, and resource requirements.
  • Coordinate contractors, suppliers, and internal teams to ensure smooth project execution.
  • Maintain accurate documentation, including risk assessments, drawings, change controls, and commissioning reports.
  • Develop engineering specifications, layouts, P&IDs, and equipment selection aligned with hygiene and food safety requirements.
  • Oversee installation, integration, and validation of new equipment, process lines, utilities, and automation systems.
  • Ensure engineering work complies with food safety standards (e.g., HACCP, GMP, BRCGS), as well as relevant legislation (H&S, machinery directive, environmental).
  • Manage commissioning and performance testing to verify functionality and compliance.
  • Identify and deliver improvements in process efficiency, energy usage, reliability, and product quality.
  • Lead root cause analysis (RCA) and implement corrective actions to support operational teams.
  • Ensure all engineering activities comply with H&S legislation, PUWER, LOLER, ATEX, and site safety standards.
  • Develop and maintain project-related risk assessments, method statements, and safe systems of work.
  • Embed hygienic design principles into all project work.
  • Act as the project engineering contact with production, technical, maintenance, quality, and external partners.
  • Manage contractor performance, inductions, site access, and compliance with contractor control processes.
  • Provide clear technical communication to all stakeholders, adapting detail to audience as needed.
  • Prepare capex proposals, secure approvals, and track spend accurately.
  • Source equipment and services, obtain competitive quotations, and manage vendor relationships.
  • Negotiate contracts, warranties, service agreements, and technical support terms.

A successful Interim Project Engineer should have:

  • Degree or equivalent in Mechanical, Electrical, Manufacturing, or Process Engineering (or related discipline).
  • Strong knowledge of food manufacturing processes, production equipment, utilities, and hygienic design.
  • Experience with:
  • process design, line integration, and equipment installation
  • control systems/automation (PLC, SCADA, instrumentation)
  • utilities: steam, compressed air, refrigeration, effluent, HVAC
  • CAD software (AutoCAD/SolidWorks) and project management tools
  • Understanding of food safety frameworks: HACCP, GMP, BRCGS, TACCP/VACCP.
  • Proven track record delivering multiple engineering projects in a fast paced manufacturing environment, including strong planning, scheduling, risk management, and organisational skills.
  • Ability to manage contractors, suppliers, and multidisciplinary teams.
  • Capex/budget management and commercial awareness.
  • Familiarity with:
    • H&S legislation (HASAWA, PUWER, LOLER, RIDDOR)
    • machinery safety directives & CE/UKCA marking
    • environmental compliance and waste/energy management
  • Ability to produce safe work systems, RAMS, and project safety plans.
  • Excellent communication with the ability to influence across functions.
  • Strong problem solving skills and engineering curiosity.
  • Resilience and adaptability in a highly dynamic production environment.
  • Collaborative team player able to drive change positively.
  • High attention to detail and commitment to quality and safety.
  • Job Offer:

    • Competitive daily rate of £400-£550, depending on experience and IR35 status.
    • Opportunity to work on a broad range of impactful projects in the FMCG industry.
    • Immediate start, 3-6 month contract.
    • Site based role in Gateshead.

    Interim Project Engineer in Devon employer: Michael Page Engineering & Manufacturing

    As a leading player in the food manufacturing FMCG industry, our company offers an exceptional work environment in Gateshead, where innovation and safety are at the forefront of our operations. We pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative culture that encourages professional growth through diverse project opportunities and hands-on experience, ensuring that our employees can make a meaningful impact while advancing their careers. With competitive rates and a commitment to quality and safety, we provide a rewarding workplace for those looking to excel in engineering roles.
    Michael Page Engineering & Manufacturing

    Contact Detail:

    Michael Page Engineering & Manufacturing Recruiting Team

    StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

    We think this is how you could land Interim Project Engineer in Devon

    ✨Tip Number 1

    Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the food manufacturing industry and let them know you're on the lookout for interim project engineering roles. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities that aren't advertised.

    ✨Tip Number 2

    Get your hands dirty with some practical experience! If you can, volunteer for projects or take on short-term gigs that allow you to showcase your skills in planning, execution, and delivery of engineering projects. This will not only boost your CV but also give you real-world examples to discuss in interviews.

    ✨Tip Number 3

    Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of food safety standards and engineering principles. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed projects in the past, especially in fast-paced environments. We want to hear about your problem-solving skills and how you’ve driven change!

    ✨Tip Number 4

    Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged. So, get your application in and show us what you've got!

    We think you need these skills to ace Interim Project Engineer in Devon

    Project Management
    Engineering Specifications
    Food Safety Standards (HACCP, GMP, BRCGS)
    Process Design
    Control Systems/Automation (PLC, SCADA)
    CAD Software (AutoCAD/SolidWorks)
    Risk Management
    Budget Management
    Contract Negotiation
    Communication Skills
    Problem-Solving Skills
    Attention to Detail
    Adaptability
    Team Collaboration
    Vendor Management

    Some tips for your application 🫡

    Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Interim Project Engineer role. Highlight your experience in food manufacturing and project management, and don’t forget to mention any relevant qualifications or certifications that align with the job description.

    Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific projects you've worked on that relate to the responsibilities listed in the job description, and show us your passion for engineering in the food industry.

    Showcase Your Skills: In your application, be sure to showcase your skills in areas like risk management, budgeting, and compliance with food safety standards. We want to see how your expertise can contribute to our projects and help us maintain high standards in food manufacturing.

    Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding your application status!

    How to prepare for a job interview at Michael Page Engineering & Manufacturing

    ✨Know Your Projects Inside Out

    Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the types of engineering projects the company undertakes. Be ready to discuss your past experiences with capex and opex projects, and how you've successfully managed timelines and budgets.

    ✨Showcase Your Technical Skills

    Prepare to talk about your knowledge of food manufacturing processes and relevant engineering tools like CAD software. Bring examples of how you've applied these skills in previous roles, especially in relation to hygiene and food safety standards.

    ✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Ability

    Think of specific instances where you've tackled engineering challenges or improved processes. Be ready to explain your thought process and the outcomes, as this will highlight your analytical skills and engineering curiosity.

    ✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently

    Practice explaining complex technical concepts in simple terms, as you'll need to communicate effectively with various stakeholders. Show that you can adapt your communication style based on your audience, whether it's production teams or external partners.

    Interim Project Engineer in Devon
    Michael Page Engineering & Manufacturing
    Location: Devon

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