Lead Engineer

About the role

Elis UK Limited is seeking an experienced Lead Engineer to support the Engineering Manager and act as deputy when required. Based in Bishop Auckland, you will work closely with production teams to improve equipment effectiveness, drive operational excellence and help achieve the site’s business objectives.

Key responsibilities

• Support the Engineering Manager in leading the engineering function and act as deputy during absences.
• Ensure compliance with QHSE policies, regulations and safety standards.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, including overall equipment effectiveness and environmental impact reduction.
• Plan, organise and coordinate maintenance activities, including preventive maintenance (PPM) schedules and corrective works.
• Provide hands‑on technical support while mentoring engineers and apprentices.
• Support installation, testing, maintenance and repair of site equipment and machinery.
• Manage engineering activities during leadership absence to meet performance targets.
• Work with suppliers to source parts and improve operational efficiency.
• Promote a strong safety culture and ensure training compliance across the engineering team.

Required profile

• Proven experience in industrial maintenance, production or operational engineering.
• Previous supervisory or management experience within an engineering environment.
• Relevant qualification (Degree, HND, HNC, NVQ Level 3 or equivalent engineering certification).
• Excellent communication, leadership and team‑building abilities.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• NEBOSH/IOSH or QHSE qualifications are desirable.

Required skills

• Electrical systems
• Mechanical systems
• Steam systems
• Industrial maintenance
• Production engineering
• Operational engineering
• Preventive maintenance (PPM) scheduling
• Equipment installation, testing and repair

What we offer

• 29 days holiday
• Employee Assistance Programme