Engineering Operations Lead

Position: Engineering Operations Lead (Permanent)
We are seeking an experienced, adaptable Operations professional to join a rapidly expanding, innovative engineering company based near Woodbridge. Working closely with and directly supporting the owners of the business, this role offers a unique opportunity to assist across all operational areas, helping to ensure the smooth, safe and efficient running of the company as it continues to grow.

This is a broad, hands-on position, with involvement across production management, procurement, planning, HSQE and continuous improvement, providing support wherever required to meet business and client demands. The role will suit someone comfortable operating in a small business environment, contributing across multiple functions and responding flexibly to changing priorities.

Key Responsibilities:

* Working alongside the owners to support day-to-day operational activities across production, projects and support functions as required.

* Assisting with project and production management, ensuring client requirements are clearly understood and delivered on time and within budget.

* Supporting the development and use of production and project plans to monitor progress, capacity and performance.

* Design, implement, and manage the company’s Quality Management System (QMS) in alignment with EN1090 standards and other relevant industry regulations.

* Assisting with the implementation, maintenance and continual improvement of Health, Safety, and Environmental systems and compliance.

* Providing HSQE guidance, training and support to employees and contractors.

* Driving and supporting continuous improvement initiatives, including Lean and Six Sigma principles, to improve efficiency, quality and delivery.

* Helping to define, track and report performance metrics and KPIs across operations to support informed decision-making.

* Promoting a positive culture of safety, quality, accountability and continuous improvement.

* Assisting with procurement, purchasing, stock control and supplier coordination.

* Providing general operational and administrative support to enable the business to function efficiently and scale effectively.

Applicants must:

* Have a proven background in operations management or operational support within an engineering or manufacturing environment, ideally within fabrication or a similar setting.

* Have experience across production management, planning, procurement and wider operational activities.

* Have experience supporting or managing HSQE activities within an engineering/manufacturing setting.

* Have exposure to or an interest in continuous improvement methodologies, such as Lean and/or Six Sigma.

* Have experience planning, coordinating or supporting projects or production activities.

* Be highly organised, process-driven and detail-oriented.

* Be able to make practical, commercially aware decisions, balancing operational and business needs.

* Have strong communication, teamwork and leadership skills, with a collaborative and hands-on approach.

The successful applicant will join a small, growing organisation in a varied and flexible role, working closely with the owners and gaining exposure to all aspects of the business. The position offers genuine scope to grow in responsibility as the company develops. Salary: £50,000+ depending on experience, plus potential profit-related reward/additional benefits