Engineering Manager – Mechanical bias Location: Bedfordshire Salary: Up to £65,000 + benefits The Opportunity * We’re looking for a hands-on Engineering Manager with a strong mechanical bias to lead an engineering team within a machinery-focused business. * This is an excellent opportunity for someone with a background in a practical, engineering-led environment, where machinery, mechanical systems and getting things done on the shop floor are at the heart of the operation. About you * You’ll combine technical expertise with team leadership, driving engineering performance, equipment reliability and continuous improvement across the business. * You will have a strong mechanical engineering background, ideally gained within a hands-on, machinery-oriented business such as manufacturing, industrial equipment, automation or heavy engineering. * You’re a practical, hands-on engineering leader who is comfortable getting involved in technical challenges rather than managing from a distance. * You'll have experience leading, managing or developing an engineering team, with the ability to motivate people and drive accountability. * Training will be given on internal systems and processes, but you will need to have a solid understanding of mechanical systems, machinery maintenance, fault-finding and equipment reliability. * You’re proactive, commercially aware and passionate about improving engineering standards, minimising downtime and delivering results. What You’ll Be Doing * Leading and developing the engineering team (designers, build teams etc), setting clear priorities and ensuring work is delivered safely, efficiently and to a high standard. * Overseeing mechanical engineering activities, including machinery maintenance, repairs, fault-finding and preventative maintenance. * Driving equipment reliability, reducing downtime and identifying opportunities to improve machinery performance and operational efficiency. * Working closely with production and other departments to resolve technical issues, support operational targets and improve overall plant performance. * Managing engineering resources, contractors and maintenance priorities while ensuring compliance with health and safety requirements and relevant engineering standards. What’s on Offer? * A salary of up to £65,000, depending on experience. * Standard company benefits. * The opportunity to lead a hands-on engineering team in a machinery manufacturing focused environment. * A genuine opportunity to make the role your own - not just ticking boxes from corporate people. You can make decisions, and own them! * The chance to make a tangible impact on engineering performance, machinery reliability and business operations. Interested? If you’re a mechanically biased Engineering Manager who enjoys being close to the equipment, solving problems and leading from the front, we’d love to hear from you