At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a hands-on workshop, machining and fabricating advanced hardware products.
- Company: Dynamic defence company focused on precision engineering and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and opportunities for training and development.
- Other info: Exciting chance to shape the future of workshop operations and equipment.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of technology, making real prototypes and leading a team.
- Qualifications: Strong background in precision engineering and CNC machining experience required.
The predicted salary is between 39600 - 48400 £ per year.
Workshop Manager | Defence | Reading
We're looking for a hands-on Workshop Manager to take ownership of a precision engineering and prototyping workshop supporting the development of advanced hardware products.
This is very much a maker/manager position rather than a desk-based workshop role.
You'll machine and fabricate prototype parts, tooling, fixtures and test equipment yourself, while owning the machines, safety, maintenance and day-to-day operation of the workshop.
As the capability grows, there will be scope to build and lead a wider workshop team.
Skills & Experience
Essential
- Time-served machinist, toolmaker or similarly strong precision engineering background
- Significant hands-on manual and CNC machining experience
- CNC programming from engineering drawings / CAD using Fusion 360, Mastercam or similar
- Strong understanding of tooling, workholding, feeds, speeds and machining strategy
- Wire EDM setup and operation experience
- Hands-on 3D printing / rapid prototyping experience
- Confident reading engineering drawings and GD&T
- Strong inspection and metrology skills
- Experience producing precision prototypes, jigs, fixtures and tooling
- Experience taking responsibility for workshop equipment, maintenance and consumables
- Practical understanding of workshop H&S, including risk assessments, COSHH and PUWER
Desirable
- Toolmaking / prototype workshop background
- Experience establishing, expanding or reorganising a workshop
- Precision components for rotating or electromechanical systems
- CMM inspection
- Machine-tool specification, procurement and commissioning
- Experience managing external machining suppliers
- Electric motor or coil winding exposure
- IOSH, NEBOSH or similar H&S qualification
- Previous mentoring or workshop leadership experience
- Additional Information
- Permanent, full-time position
- Competitive salary depending on experience
- UK-based, onsite
- Initially a highly hands-on individual role with ownership of the workshop
- Scope to specify and introduce new equipment and manufacturing capabilities
- Opportunity to build and lead a workshop team as the operation grows
- Occasional European travel for equipment and technical training
Workshop Manager in Reading employer: SR2 | Socially Responsible Recruitment | Certified B CorporationTM
As a leading consultancy, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. With flexible working arrangements and a commitment to continuous learning through dedicated training budgets and career coaching, our team enjoys the unique advantage of working on impactful projects while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Join us to take ownership of your work in a supportive environment that values innovation and collaboration.
Contact Details:
SR2 | Socially Responsible Recruitment | Certified B CorporationTM Recruitment Team
