Description

Technical Manager About the Role My client are looking for an experienced and commercially minded Technical Manager to join the growing Precision Engineering SME based in Plymouth. This is a varied and hands-on management role within a dynamic engineering environment. Reporting directly to the General Manager and working as part of a small management team, you will play a key role in supporting customers, production and the wider business. The successful candidate will be comfortable working independently, making decisions quickly and taking ownership across a broad range of technical, operational and commercial activities. Key Responsibilities * Prepare quotations and liaise directly with customers on technical and commercial requirements. * Process customer orders and provide technical and operational support to production. * Provide technical guidance on machining, welding, fabrication and general engineering requirements. * Drive continuous improvement initiatives, including 5S and Lean Manufacturing principles. * Support the sales function with technical input, customer enquiries and opportunities. * Take ownership of specific customer accounts, developing strong and effective working relationships. * Monitor and maintain quality standards across the business. * Oversee and manage the company's ISO 9001 Quality Management System, ensuring ongoing compliance and continual improvement. * Work closely with production to ensure customer requirements, quality standards and delivery expectations are met. * Report directly to the General Manager and provide support across day-to-day business activities. * Identify opportunities to improve processes, efficiency and overall business performance. * Contribute as a key member of the management team, adapting to changing priorities within a fast-paced SME environment. Experience & Skills The ideal candidate will have: * Previous technical and/or operational management experience within a precision engineering or manufacturing SME. * A strong practical engineering background, ideally supported by a time-served apprenticeship in toolmaking, machining, welding or fabrication. * An HNC in Mechanical Engineering or an equivalent engineering qualification. * Strong knowledge of engineering processes and techniques, including machining, welding and fabrication, sufficient to confidently quote work, advise customers and support production. * Experience or a good working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and 5S principles. * Strong commercial awareness and an understanding of how technical decisions impact business performance. * Excellent communication and customer-facing skills. * The ability to work effectively within a small management team while being comfortable taking ownership and working independently. * A flexible and multidisciplinary approach, with a willingness to get involved wherever required. * A dedicated, driven and reliable approach, with a strong focus on quality and customer satisfaction. PACKAGE Location: Ivybridge Hours: 39 hours per week Monday–Thursday: 07:30–16:30 Friday: 07:30–12:30 Salary: £45,000–£50,000 per annum, depending on experience 25 days annual leave + bank holidays, increasing by 1 additional day per year up to a maximum of 27 days. Annual performance-related bonus, based on company performance, with up to 20% achievable