Deputy Head of Engineering

Job Title: Deputy Head of Engineering

Location: Reading
Salary: £55,000 £60,000 per annum (dependent on experience)
Shift Pattern:

• Week 1: 05 00
• Week 2: 07 30
• Week 3: 14 00

Overview:
A leading manufacturing organisation is seeking a Deputy Head of Engineering to support the Head of Engineering in managing plant operations, maintenance, and utilities. This is an ideal opportunity for a senior-level engineer with hands-on maintenance experience and leadership capability who is looking to step into a strategic, people-focused position with a clear path toward progression into an Engineering Manager role.
We re prepared to wait for the right candidate who is motivated to grow and contribute to a high-performing engineering team.
Key Responsibilities:

• Support and co-manage the day-to-day operations of the Engineering Department.
• Drive Health & Safety compliance across the department and wider site.
• Assist in planning, scheduling, and implementing all planned preventative maintenance (PPM) activities.
• Monitor and analyse plant and machinery performance, proactively addressing issues to reduce downtime.
• Help maintain and develop safe systems of work in collaboration with the Head of Engineering and H&S team.
• Supervise and support engineering personnel, contractors, and shift engineers.
• Oversee contractor activity, including permit issue and auditing of works.
• Participate in and lead machinery inspections and emergency repairs.
• Maintain oversight of spare parts management and storage systems.
• Assist with asset register development and key equipment installation reviews.
• Support the execution of CAPEX projects, including energy improvements and facility upgrades.
• Play a key role in recruitment, training, and mentoring of engineering staff.
• Contribute to and support audits, risk assessments, COSHH, and regulatory documentation.
• Attend and contribute to operational and safety meetings, stepping in for the Head of Engineering when required.
• Be available to support out-of-hours issues as part of a call-out rota.
• Provide budget-conscious quotations and cost control support for engineering activities.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement and development across the engineering team.

What We re Looking For:

• Minimum 5 years experience in a hands-on maintenance engineering role in a fast-paced industrial or manufacturing environment.
• Proven leadership or mentoring experience, with the ability to inspire and develop others.
• A collaborative team player with a proactive, solutions-focused mindset.
• Strong understanding of engineering safety regulations, compliance, and maintenance best practices.
• Ambition to grow into an Engineering Manager position through structured succession planning and personal development.
• Excellent communication and planning skills, with the ability to manage both strategic and hands-on tasks.

What s on Offer:

• A competitive salary of £55,000 £60,000 (DOE)
• Long-term career progression and training towards an Engineering Manager role
• Involvement in impactful projects and department leadership
• A structured shift pattern to support work-life balance
• A supportive team culture with a focus on development, safety, and continuous improvement

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced engineer with leadership ambition to make a real impact and grow their career. If you have the skills, mindset, and drive to help shape the future of engineering within a thriving operation we want to hear from you.

Apply today or get in touch with (url removed) for a confidential conversation.