Deputy Head of Department

Location: South West London

Deputy Head of Department - Engineering

Location:

South West London

We're hiring!

A leading South West London-based scenic construction company is seeking an experienced Deputy Head of Department - Engineering to support the leadership of its Engineering team.

Working across a varied portfolio of projects in theatre, television and live events, this role offers the opportunity to take a senior position within a highly skilled workshop environment. You will play a key role in ensuring complex scenic builds are delivered safely, accurately, on time and within budget.

The Role

The Deputy Head of Department will support the day-to-day management of the Engineering Department, which specialises in the construction of scenery built in metal and associated materials. You will help maintain oversight of departmental workloads and project schedules, while contributing to team development, wellbeing and continuous improvement. This role will also deputise for the Head of Department where required.

Key Responsibilities

Support the leadership of the Engineering Department in delivering high-quality, accurately built scenery from complex drawings.

Assist with planning and managing departmental schedules in coordination with the Workshop Manager.

Take a proactive role in departmental health & safety and sustainability practices.

Ensure the safe use, inspection and maintenance of all engineering equipment.

Promote strong teamwork, engagement and high staff morale within the department.

Support the oversight of training, apprenticeships and work-experience placements.

Skills

Experience in scenic construction and/or architectural fabrication

Proficient in MIG and TIG welding (essential); plasma cutting an advantage

Strong understanding of materials, processes, and fabrication methods

Previous supervisory or team-lead experience desirable

Proven experience leading on-site build teams

Engineering NVQ and/or coded welding qualifications preferred

About You

You will have a strong background in engineering or fabrication within a project-led environment, ideally scenic construction or a related industry. You'll be confident supporting teams, managing workloads and upholding high standards of safety, quality and organisation.

Why Apply?

Work on diverse, high-profile projects across theatre, TV and live events

Step into a senior support role with clear responsibility and impact

Be part of a skilled, collaborative engineering team

Opportunity to develop leadership capability in a creative environment