Technical Operations Manager

Technical Operations Manager

Location: Wellingborough, Northamptonshire
Salary: £45,000 per annum (depending on experience)
Higher salaries may be considered for exceptional candidates
Hours: Monday to Thursday 07:30–16:30 / Friday 07:30–12:30

About the Company
Our client is a well-established manufacturing business known for quality, precision, and innovation. They are now seeking an experienced and driven Operations Manager to lead manufacturing operations, ensuring efficient production, strong team performance, and continuous improvement across the shop floor.

Key Requirements
This role requires a candidate with strong, practical knowledge of sheet metal manufacturing processes and machinery, who is confident not only in understanding operations but also in supporting, guiding, and advising teams on best practice and machine usage. This role would suit an individual who has previously worked in a hands-on technical role, looking to step up from a Team Leader/Supervisor position into a Managerial role. 

What We Offer
• Competitive salary (£45,000+, with flexibility for exceptional candidates)
• Opportunity to shape and improve manufacturing operations
• Supportive leadership team
• Clear progression opportunities
• Additional benefits discussed at interview

Key Responsibilities
• Lead daily production meetings to review schedules, delays, and lead times
• Work closely with Sales to manage order progress and production capacity
• Oversee manufacturing operations, driving efficiency and process improvements
• Monitor output, deadlines, and workflow to ensure production targets are met
• Assess staffing levels and plan resources effectively
• Provide leadership, mentoring, and performance support to teams
• Support HR processes including disciplinary meetings when required
• Act as a key point of contact across departments to ensure smooth operations

Experience & Skills Required

Essential:
• Strong background in engineering or manufacturing management
• Sheet metal experience is essential
• Proven leadership experience within a manufacturing environment
• Excellent organisational and project management skills
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings
• Strong communication skills with a calm, professional approach

Technical Expertise (Essential):
You must have hands-on experience and strong working knowledge of the following processes and machinery, with the ability to advise, support, and guide others in their use:
• Tubular laser machines
• Trumpf laser machines
• CNC punching
• CNC brake press
• MIG welding
• TIG welding
• Powder coating

This is not a fully hands-on role; however, a deep technical understanding is critical, and you must be confident in supporting operators, troubleshooting issues, and improving processes across these areas.

Personal Attributes
• Proactive, disciplined, and results-driven
• Strong problem-solver with a continuous improvement mindset
• Approachable leader with the ability to motivate and develop teams
• Confident decision-maker with a “lead from the front” attitude
 
Sounds like the role for you? Please apply with an up-to-date CV.