Workshop Manager

We are looking for a highly capable and experienced Workshop Manager to lead our busy workshop operations. This is a key leadership role responsible for managing a team of technicians, overseeing workflow, ensuring quality standards, and maintaining a safe and efficient workshop environment.

You will take ownership of day-to-day planning, resource allocation, technical support, and continuous improvement, ensuring the workshop delivers exceptional results in productivity, quality, and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead, manage, and develop a team of workshop technicians and supervisors
• Oversee daily workshop operations, ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and to the required standard
• Plan and prioritise workloads, balancing customer demands, production schedules, and internal requirements
• Monitor quality of repairs, rebuilds, services, and new assemblies
• Provide technical expertise and support in diagnosing complex issues
• Ensure compliance with Health & Safety policies and maintain a clean, well‑organised workshop
• Manage workshop documentation, reporting, and accurate time/attendance recording
• Oversee training, upskilling, and performance management within the workshop team
• Drive improvements in processes, productivity, and workshop organisation
• Liaise with Production, Technical, Quality, R&D, and Supply Chain teams
• Support customer queries, supplier liaison, and site visits when required
• Ensure tools, equipment, and calibration processes are maintained and up to date
• Contribute to strategic planning for future workshop capability and capacity

Skills & Experience Required:

• Strong background in mechanical engineering, engine building, automotive, marine, or related disciplines
• Proven experience managing or supervising a workshop or similar operational environment
• Excellent leadership skills with the ability to motivate, coach, and develop a team
• Strong technical understanding of engines, diagnostics, repairs, and mechanical assembly
• Ability to manage workloads, priorities, and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• High attention to detail and commitment to delivering quality workmanship
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Good understanding of Health & Safety best practice

• Confident in using workshop systems, documentation, and basic IT tools

Desirable:

• Engineering or mechanical qualification (e.g., apprenticeship, NVQ, City & Guilds)
• Experience with lean manufacturing or continuous improvement
• Forklift licence
• Experience in a production/manufacturing environment

What We Offer:

• A leadership role in a respected and established engineering organisation
• Supportive environment focused on professional growth and development
• Opportunities to influence workshop improvements and operational excellence
• A competitive salary package will be offered to the right candidate. 
• 25 days holiday plus statutory bank holidays
• Company pension scheme
• Life Assurance
• Discretionary Annual Bonus

Please apply enclosing your full CV to: Recruitment, E.P. Barrus Ltd, Glen Way, Launton Road, Bicester, Oxfordshire, OX26 4UR or email: recruitment@barrus.co.uk