Head of Engineering

Zenith People are working with our client who are recruiting for a Head of Engineering to lead and develop their engineering function across 2 sites based in County Durham and Yorkshire. This is a pivotal leadership role requiring a blend of strategic oversight and practical involvement in day-to-day operations. The successful candidate will drive engineering excellence, ensure equipment reliability, and support continuous improvement in a fast-paced, 24/7 manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities
 
* Lead, manage, and develop a multi-disciplinary engineering team across both sites.
 
* Oversee all engineering activities including maintenance, reliability, and capital projects.
 
* Support and develop the Planned Maintenance (PPM) schedule, ensuring full preventative maintenance is carried out effectively.
 
* Ensure compliance with health & safety, environmental, and quality standards.
 
* Drive root cause analysis and implement corrective actions to reduce downtime.
 
* Collaborate with production and operations teams to optimise equipment performance.
 
* Manage engineering budgets, spare parts inventory, and contractor relationships.
 
* Lead site engineering strategy aligned with group objectives and sustainability goals.
 
* Support and lead initiatives in extrusion, thermoforming, and injection moulding processes.
 
* Champion continuous improvement and lean manufacturing principles.
 
* Manage contractors on site and ensure they meet legal and company requirements.
Ideal Candidate Profile
 
* Electrically biased engineer with strong mechanical understanding.
 
* Proven leadership experience in a manufacturing environment, ideally multi-site.
 
* Hands-on approach with the ability to mentor and motivate technical teams.
 
* Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive mindset.
 
* Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
 
* Relevant engineering qualifications (HNC/HND/Degree or equivalent).

What We Offer
Competitive salary and benefits package.
A dynamic and supportive working environment.

Career development within a forward-thinking organisation.
Click Apply now