Lead Engineer

Job Description

Lead Engineer (Electrical)

Shift: 4 on 4 off days and nights

Location: Forest Gate

We are looking for a skilled Lead Engineer with a strong electrical and automation bias to lead a shift-based engineering team in a high-speed manufacturing environment.

This is a hands-on engineering role. You will lead from the front, supporting complex fault finding, driving engineering standards on shift and acting as the link between engineering management and the shift team.

You will take ownership of electrical, controls and automation performance while ensuring mechanical issues are resolved effectively by the team.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and support a shift team of multi-skilled engineers
• Take the technical lead on electrical, automation and control system faults
• Support PLC, drives, HMI and instrumentation fault finding
• Ensure safe and effective response to breakdowns
• Drive engineering, safety and maintenance standards on shift
• Reduce repeat faults through structured problem solving
• Communicate clearly with engineering management and operations

What We’re Looking For

• Strong electrical bias essential
• Experience leading a team or leading from a skills perspective
• NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent) in Electrical Engineering
• Strong fault-finding capability on PLC-controlled equipment
• Experience with drives, motors, sensors and control panels
• Background in FMCG, food or high-speed manufacturing
• Confident, hands-on leader who sets standards and supports their team

Benefits Baked In

All colleagues can choose from a wide range of benefits in addition to salaries, based on their individual needs.

• Three levels of pension scheme to choose from - employer contribution of up to 7.5%
• Aviva DigiCare+ Workplace App includes: 'at home' Annual Health Check, Digital GP consultations, Nutritional Consultations, Second Medical Opinions and much more
• Enhanced parental leave (and flexibility where possible to suit your needs)
• Access to funded physiotherapy sessions
• Wellbeing support and campaigns to help you stay active and healthy, be financially prepared, and support your mental wellbeing
• Opt in plans for money back towards the cost of opticians, dentist, physiotherapist and more
• A benefits platform for all, Hovis Choice:
• £££ Savings and cashback offers on day-to-day spending
• Eyecare vouchers
• Cycle to work scheme