Workshop Manager

Workshop Manager

Location: Cardiff
Salary: £45,000 - £50,000 per annum + Benefits

About the Role

An established industrial services business is seeking an experienced Workshop Manager to lead its maintenance function and oversee the upkeep, reliability, and performance of a large fleet of heavy plant and equipment.

This is a hands-on leadership position, managing a team of skilled technicians while driving high standards in maintenance planning, workshop productivity, health & safety, and cost control. The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring equipment availability and supporting operational performance across multiple sites.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and develop a team of workshop technicians, fostering a safe and productive working environment.
Manage planned preventative maintenance schedules to maximise equipment reliability and lifespan.
Coordinate and prioritise breakdown repairs to minimise operational downtime.
Allocate workloads and monitor workshop performance and efficiency.
Maintain accurate service records, inspection programmes, and maintenance schedules.
Source parts and services, negotiate with suppliers, and manage purchasing activities.
Control stock levels and workshop inventory.
Monitor maintenance costs and identify opportunities for operational improvements and cost savings.
Investigate equipment failures and implement corrective actions.
Work closely with operational teams to ensure plant availability meets business demands.
Manage external contractors and specialist service providers.
Support continuous improvement initiatives across the maintenance function.
Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental standards.
Provide mentoring, training, and technical support to maintenance personnel.
Essential Requirements

Minimum 5 years' experience managing a busy workshop or maintenance operation.
NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent) in Plant Maintenance, Heavy Vehicle Maintenance, Engineering, or a related discipline.
Strong knowledge of heavy plant and industrial equipment maintenance.
Advanced fault-finding and diagnostic skills across:

Mechanical systems
Hydraulic systems
Electrical systems
Engine management systems

Experience using diagnostic software and electronic troubleshooting equipment.
Strong background in maintenance planning, fleet management, and budget control.
Excellent leadership, organisational, and communication skills.
Full UK Driving Licence.
Proficient with Microsoft Office applications.
Desirable

Experience with material handling equipment, loading shovels, excavators, telehandlers, articulated trailers, or similar heavy plant.
Knowledge of condition monitoring programmes and oil analysis.
Welding and fabrication experience.
Experience using Computerised Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS).
IOSH Managing Safely or equivalent health and safety qualification.
What's on Offer?

£45,000 - £50,000 salary depending on experience
Company pension scheme
Ongoing training and professional development
Free on-site parking
PPE provided
Stable, long-term opportunity within a growing business
Supportive and professional working environment
Working Hours

Monday to Friday
Day shift hours
Overtime opportunities available
Occasional weekend work as required