Job Description

Mechanical Engineer | Days Based | Reliability
We are looking for a Mechanical Engineer to drive improvements in equipment reliability through modern maintenance techniques on high-volume woodworking CNC machinery.
To be self-sufficient but also able to work as part of a team, developing and implementing improvement projects and initiatives, to deliver gains in manufacturing safety, quality, productivity and efficiency.
The role will include applying engineering principles, conducting data analysis, and identifying root causes with an autonomous and proactive mindset.
Location | Runcorn, Cheshire
Shift | Days based, (4 on-4off 12 hr Days)
Pay Rate | Base Salary 49,263.24 per annum + Weekend Allowance 4621.20 per annum + Contractual OT 2078.30 per annum + 6-8 Allowance 412.08 per annum.
Hiring Manager | Joe McKeegan | Reliability Engineer
Grade | A
What Will You Be Doing as a Mechanical Engineer:

• Driving improvements in equipment reliability across high-volume CNC woodworking machinery
• Working in a balanced role split 50% practical / 50% analytical
• Identifying root causes of equipment failures and implementing long-term solutions
• Eliminating repeat and chronic breakdowns using structured problem-solving methods
• Delivering improvement projects to enhance machine availability, product quality, safety, and efficiency
• Using tools such as A3, DMAIC, PDCA, and FMECA to support continuous improvement
• Reviewing daily performance and contributing to performance meetings
• Leading and participating in planned outages to implement reliability improvements
• Developing "design-out" solutions and strengthening preventative maintenance strategies
• Building a strong understanding of manufacturing processes and operating sequences
• Integrating Health & Safety into all work activities and identifying areas for improvement
• Supporting proactive maintenance goals including PPM completion, corrective actions, and improvement activities
• Contributing to key measures such as OEE, availability, MTBF, MTTR, and near-miss close-out

What do you need to qualify for the Mechanical Engineer:

• Experience in maintaining multi-axis (CNC) manufacturing machinery
• Knowledge and experience of high-volume automated manufacturing equipment, along with fitting and fabrication skills
• Fault finding, root-cause analysis and corrective actions
• Experience of pneumatics, hydraulics, robotics and extraction systems is desirable
• Experience with computerised maintenance management systems and the development of maintenance tasks is desirable

What can we offer you:

• Competitive salary
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays and the opportunity to buy extra holidays
• Excellent pension scheme (company contribution of up to 12%)
• Free parking and free canteen
• PPE provided
• Reward and recognition events
• Staff Discount

How to Apply:
Before you apply, please speak to your manager so that they are aware of your interest in this role. You will also need to attach a CV and Cover Letter. Please note that this advert summarises the main duties and responsibilities and may be subject to change. If you have any questions or need further support or information, please contact the Hiring Manager or the Recruitment Team.
Howdens is founded on the principle of being Worthwhile for ALL concerned. We're working hard to ensure we provide an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. We will do everything we can to support you during your application. If you need us to make any adjustments to our recruitment process, please email recruitmentteam@howdens.com with the job title and location, and we will be happy to help you.

Skills Required