An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Operational Lead Technician to join a fast-paced operational environment. This hands-on leadership role is responsible for maintaining site equipment, driving operational efficiency, minimising downtime, and supporting the day-to-day running of the wash operation.
Working closely with the Shift Supervisor and Operations team, the successful candidate will lead a small team of Machine Minders while ensuring equipment reliability, safety compliance, quality standards, and productivity targets are consistently achieved.
Duties of an Operational Lead Technician:
- Ensure the efficient and safe operation of production and tray washing equipment
- Carry out preventative and reactive maintenance to minimise equipment downtime
- Diagnose and resolve electrical and mechanical faults
- Take ownership of equipment reliability and asset performance
- Record maintenance activities and downtime accurately using maintenance management systems
- Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions
- Lead, coach and develop Machine Minders to improve team performance
- Support Shift Supervisors with the planning and running of production operations
- Monitor productivity, quality and performance targets
- Carry out quality control checks and ensure compliance with operational procedures
- Enforce Health & Safety standards, including PPE, COSHH and site safety requirements
- Investigate accidents, incidents and near misses, ensuring appropriate reporting and corrective actions
- Manage labour allocation and support succession planning within the team
- Liaise with contractors, suppliers and service providers when required
- Identify opportunities for continuous improvement to increase efficiency, safety and quality
- Provide supervisory cover when required
What we would like from you:
- Minimum 5 years' experience within an Engineering or Maintenance environment
- Experience working within an automated manufacturing, production, FMCG or industrial setting
- Strong electrical and/or mechanical maintenance background
- Experience leading, motivating and developing teams
- Proven fault-finding and problem-solving skills
- Ability to work independently and make decisions under pressure
- Strong understanding of Health & Safety practices and compliance requirements
- Experience working towards productivity, quality and operational performance targets
Essential Qualifications:
- GCSE Maths and English (or equivalent)
- Electrical qualification such as NVQ Level 3, City & Guilds, ONC or equivalent
- and/or Mechanical qualification such as NVQ Level 3, City & Guilds, ONC or equivalent
- IOSH or equivalent Health & Safety qualification
Desirable Qualifications:
- Engineering HNC/HND or Degree
- Welding and fabrication experience
Personal Attributes:
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
- Strong leadership and coaching abilities
- Highly organised with excellent attention to detail
- Proactive and solutions-focused approach
- Ability to prioritise workload and work under pressure
- Positive and adaptable attitude
- Committed to continuous improvement and personal development
- Team-oriented with the ability to build strong working relationships across departments
- Accountable, reliable and driven to achieve results
