Lead Maintenance Engineer
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FULL DESCRIPTION
Lead Maintenance Engineer
Lead Engineer – FMCG Manufacturing | Maidstone | 4 on 4 off (Days & Nights)
Are you a strong Maintenance Engineer ready to take the next step into leadership? Or an existing Lead Engineer looking for a fresh challenge with a global FMCG manufacturer? We’re recruiting for a Lead Engineer to join a high-performing engineering team at a busy Maidstone site. This is the perfect opportunity for an ambitious engineer who still enjoys being hands-on, with around 90% of the role on the tools, while taking responsibility for leading the shift engineering function. Joining a global business with multiple UK sites, you’ll benefit from excellent training, genuine progression opportunities, and a first-class benefits package.
The Role
As Lead Engineer, you’ll be the go-to engineer on shift – leading from the front, supporting the team, and ensuring engineering performance exceeds expectations. You’ll be responsible for:
- Providing hands-on engineering support across fast-paced production lines
- Leading and motivating engineers on shift to achieve and exceed KPIs
- Acting as the first point of contact for technical issues and breakdowns
- Supporting reactive and planned maintenance activities
- Driving high standards of safety, performance, and reliability
- Coaching and developing engineers within the team
- Working closely with production and operations to maximise uptime
What We’re Looking For
- Strong background in FMCG / food / packaging / fast-paced manufacturing engineering
- Multi-skilled engineer with excellent fault-finding ability
- Natural leader with a personable, positive approach
- Someone who leads by example and can motivate others
- Ready to step up into a leadership role, or existing Lead / Team Leader experience
- Strong communicator who can build relationships across site
What's On Offer
- Competitive salary
- 10% annual bonus on top of salary
- 4 on 4 off shift pattern (days & nights)
- Excellent overall benefits package
- Ongoing training and development
- Genuine progression opportunities within a global business with multiple UK sites
Apply now
Apply now for this Lead Maintenance Engineer job
Job reference: AH052808
Location: Maidstone, Kent
Job type: Permanent
Job sector: Engineering
Salary: £50k - 52k per year
Published: April 21, 2026