Job Title:
Maintenance Engineer – Night shift
Location:
Northampton
Hours:
Sunday to Thursday 6pm to 3am with 1 hour for lunch
Salary:
Up to £50,000 per annum + Benefits
Contract Type:
Permanent | Full-Time
Industry:
Food Manufacturing / FMCG
Overview:
A leading food manufacturing organisation is seeking a skilled and experienced
Maintenance Engineer
to join their Engineering team at a well-established, high-volume production facility in Northamptonshire. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a dynamic, safety-first environment with a strong emphasis on preventative maintenance, continuous improvement, and engineering excellence.
The Role:
Reporting directly to the Maintenance & Engineering Manager, the Maintenance Engineer will be responsible for maintaining and improving the performance, reliability, and efficiency of a wide range of high-speed food processing equipment. The role includes both planned and reactive maintenance, with a strong focus on safety, compliance, and minimising downtime.
Key Responsibilities:
- Execute planned preventative maintenance (PPM) and condition-based tasks on time and in line with the CMMS system.
- Diagnose and resolve breakdowns quickly and effectively across mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.
- Conduct electro-mechanical repairs to PLC-controlled machinery including industrial ovens, freezers, slicers, sealers, and refrigeration units (Ammonia/glycol).
- Monitor machine performance and support production teams during start-ups and throughout shifts.
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives, equipment upgrades, and new installations.
- Collaborate with suppliers and external contractors where necessary.
- Provide coaching and technical support to apprentices and junior team members.
- Maintain clear records of maintenance activity, order spare parts, and deliver effective shift handovers.
- Adhere strictly to all site policies regarding Health & Safety, Food Safety, GMP, and environmental practices.
What We're Looking For:
Essential Qualifications & Experience:
- Recognised trade qualification – Electrician or Fitter.
- Minimum 3 years' post-apprenticeship experience in a regulated manufacturing environment.
- Strong multi-skilled background across mechanical and electrical disciplines.
- Excellent diagnostic and fault-finding skills in fast-paced, high-volume settings.
- Familiarity with PLCs, automation systems, high-speed packaging and handling machinery.
- Comfortable reading and working from electrical and mechanical schematics.
Desirable Experience:
- Experience with high voltage equipment, industrial microwaves, and gas ovens.
- Prior work in food manufacturing or similarly regulated environments.
Core Competencies:
- Team player with a proactive and self-motivated attitude.
- Excellent attention to detail and focus on quality and results.
- Good IT skills and ability to use maintenance software.
- Clear communicator with a commitment to safety and operational excellence.
- Flexibility to work shifts and respond to business needs.
Why Apply?
- Join a well-invested facility with modern production technologies.
- Work in a collaborative environment where safety and quality are paramount.
- Opportunity for training, upskilling, and career progression within a stable business.
- Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.