Mechanical Assembly Lead Location: Bedfordshire, On site Package: £19.00 to £23.00 per hour DOE Our client, an established UK food manufacturer supplying leading retailers and brands, is looking for an experienced Mechanical Assembly Lead to run the build, installation and commissioning of its bespoke production lines. Working alongside the engineering, production and technical teams, you will lead a team of fitters and assemblers, own build quality and delivery to programme, and help bring new and upgraded equipment into service safely. The business is in a period of continued investment, offering a real opportunity to develop your career with a stable, growing employer. THE ROLE You will be responsible for: * Leading and allocating work across the mechanical assembly team for line builds, modifications and upgrades. * Assembling, installing and aligning production equipment from mechanical drawings, GA layouts and BOMs, including conveyors, ovens, forming equipment and packaging machinery. * Planning assembly programmes, tracking progress and reporting status to the Engineering Manager. * Commissioning new and modified equipment alongside controls, electrical and production colleagues. * Resolving fit, tolerance and design issues, and feeding practical improvements back to the design team. * Making sure all work meets food safety, hygiene and quality standards, including hygienic design principles and foreign body prevention. * Maintaining high standards of health and safety, including risk assessments, method statements and permit to work compliance. * Coaching and developing team members, and supporting a culture of continuous improvement. ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS * A time served apprenticeship or equivalent qualification in a mechanical or engineering discipline (NVQ Level 3 or above, HNC or similar). EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS * Proven background in mechanical assembly, installation or fitting, with experience leading a team or acting as a senior fitter or charge hand. * Strong ability to interpret mechanical drawings and technical specifications. * Experience with precision alignment, shaft and drive systems, bearings, chains, belts, gearboxes and pneumatics. * A solid understanding of health and safety in an engineering environment. * Excellent communication skills and the ability to coordinate across engineering and production teams. * Good problem solving skills and a hands on approach to leadership. DESIRABLE * Experience in food, FMCG or similar high volume manufacturing, ideally on conveyor based or continuous process lines. * Knowledge of hygienic design and stainless steel fabrication. * Experience commissioning new production lines or major upgrades. * Familiarity with BRCGS or similar food safety standards. * CAD familiarity (SolidWorks or similar) and CMMS experience. * IOSH or NEBOSH, plus first line management training. BENEFITS * Hourly rate starting from £19.00, going up to £23.00, with flexibility to increase depending on experience. * 40 hour working week, with overtime opportunities available as some team members regularly work additional hours. * Company pension scheme. * Employee shopping discount scheme. * Holiday entitlement increases with length of service
Mechanical Assembler in Dunstable employer: Platform Recruitment
As a leading employer in the graphics and engineering computing sector, we offer an innovative work culture that fosters collaboration and creativity. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through tailored development programmes and opportunities to lead impactful projects, making this role not just a job, but a pathway to a rewarding career. Located in a vibrant tech hub, our team enjoys a dynamic environment with access to cutting-edge resources and a supportive community.
