Engineering Shift Manager

About the role

Avara Foods is investing heavily in its Hereford factory and seeks an Engineering Shift Manager to lead a 5‑shift continental pattern. You will oversee daily engineering activities, drive continuous improvement, and ensure a safe, productive environment for fast‑moving production lines.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and manage a shift of Engineers and Apprentices, recording all administrative data in the TMS.
• Own on‑shift engineering performance for production lines and broader factory activities, maintaining safe plant operations.
• Monitor engineering and operational KPIs, identify improvement opportunities, and implement corrective actions.
• Prepare equipment for shift start, ensure output targets are met, and oversee proper line shutdowns.
• Attend all Safety Improvement Calls (SICs) during the shift.
• Allocate and record stock usage, request replacement parts, and liaise with stores, external suppliers, the Engineering Planner and Operations Manager.
• Control and manage tools assigned to the shift.
• Maintain workshop and external areas to high standards and achieve satisfactory GMP audit feedback.
• Champion a specific area of responsibility to support overall operations.

Required profile

• Proven experience leading a shift of engineers and apprentices in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of maintenance procedures, safety standards and GMP compliance.
• Ability to analyse engineering and operational KPIs and drive continuous improvement.
• Excellent organisational skills for stock control, tool management and liaison with multiple stakeholders.

Required skills

• Proficiency with a Maintenance Management System (TMS).
• Knowledge of GMP audit requirements.
• Familiarity with engineering performance metrics and KPI tracking.

What we offer

• Salary £48,000‑£50,000 per year plus a £7,785 shift premium.
• 31 days holiday.
• Life Assurance and Private Medical Health Cover.
• Subsidised canteen and various wellbeing resources.