At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engineering and reliability for a brand-new manufacturing plant from start-up to full operation.
- Company: Join a pioneering team at a cutting-edge manufacturing facility in Ellesmere Port.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and the chance to shape a new plant's future.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities to build and lead a lean engineering team.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting start-up phase and make a real impact on operations.
- Qualifications: Experience in engineering management and hands-on commissioning in manufacturing environments.
Engineering Manager | Ellesmere Port, CH65 7BF £55,000–£65,000 | Permanent, full-time Join the founding leadership team of a brand-new manufacturing plant in Ellesmere Port.
All equipment is new.
Hot commissioning is planned for November/December 2026, with full capacity targeted for early 2027.
You will design, implement and own the engineering and reliability strategy from day one — taking the site safely through commissioning into stable, planned-maintenance operation.
The asset base runs from heavy engineering (conveyors, granulators and similar plant) through to process automation (Profibus, SCADA) and everything in between.
The role You will lead Engineering & Reliability through start-up and into full operation, with a clear brief to build a planned-maintenance culture (target 80–85% planned / 15–20% unplanned) using RCM and TPM.
- Commissioning and start-up
- Lead and coordinate hot commissioning of all new plant equipment (Nov/Dec 2026)
- Support ramp-up to full capacity through early–mid 2027
- Establish commissioning procedures, punch-list control, as-built documentation and operator training support
- Act as Site Custodian for Permit to Work and implement rigorous LOTO across all shifts Planned maintenance, RCM and TPM
- Design and implement a PPM programme across mechanical, electrical and automation assets
- Apply RCM to critical assets and select the right maintenance strategy for each
- Embed TPM, including operator autonomous maintenance
- Drive and measure a high planned-to-unplanned work ratio Reliability, systems and improvement
- Select, configure and embed a CMMS for planning, scheduling, history, spares and reporting
- Own reliability KPIs (MTBF, MTTR, planned vs unplanned, schedule compliance, backlog health)
- Lead root-cause analysis and make corrective actions stick
- Manage stores, critical spares and OEM/vendor relationships
- Ensure compliance with statutory inspections, pressure systems, LOLER, PUWER and UK health and safety law Leadership
- Build and develop a lean engineering team that grows with the plant
- Work closely with Operations so maintenance is planned around production
- Be a visible, hands-on leader through the start-up phase What you will need
- Significant experience as Engineering Manager, Maintenance Manager or senior Engineering Lead in manufacturing, process or industrial environments
- Breadth across heavy engineering (conveyors, granulators and similar) and process automation (Profibus, SCADA)
- Hands-on plant commissioning, start-up or major equipment handover (hot commissioning of new process plant ideal)
- Proven delivery of planned preventive maintenance and a high planned-to-unplanned ratio
- Experience managing Permit to Work, contractor safety and LOTO in heavy manufacturing
- Practical RCM and/or TPM experience, including operator autonomous maintenance
- Strong CMMS, work planning, spares management and reliability KPI capability Apply online with an up-to-date CV
Engineering Manager employer: Trek Recruitment Ltd
Join a dynamic manufacturing business in Wrexham as a Materials Controller, where you will play a crucial role in stock control and supplier performance. Enjoy a supportive work culture that values your expertise, offers hybrid and flexible working options, and provides ample opportunities for professional growth and development. With a competitive salary and the chance to make impactful decisions, this is an excellent opportunity for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Engineering Manager
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Trek Recruitment Ltd, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Engineering Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Trek Recruitment Ltd specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Trek Recruitment Ltd
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Trek Recruitment Ltd, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Trek Recruitment Ltd value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
