Job Description

About Get The Drinks In:

We are a leading Herefordshire contract canning business supplying top-tier drinks brands with reliable, high-quality production services. Our operation relies on the performance and resilience of modern, high-speed packaging and process equipment. As we expand our production capacity, we are looking for a skilled engineer to bolster our engineering department, ensuring line uptime, rapid response to breakdowns, and the continuous improvement of our plant and processes.

Role Overview:

As a Mechanical Engineer, you will provide front-line technical support, maintaining and enhancing our automated canning, packaging, and process equipment. The role covers a blend of hands-on mechanical engineering, preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance, as well as project support for engineering improvements.

You'll work closely with the Operations, Quality Assurance, and In-House Electrician, taking a proactive approach to problem-solving and contributing to the safety and reliability of our entire site.

Key Responsibilities:

Provide rapid response to breakdowns and faults on canning, filling, packaging, and related process equipment (including PLC-controlled systems). Carry out planned preventive and predictive maintenance to minimise downtime and ensure regulatory compliance. Undertake fault diagnosis, root cause analysis, and repairs across electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic systems. Support and deliver line changeovers and equipment optimisation in collaboration with production teams. Lead or contribute to continuous improvement, efficiency, and reliability projects (OEE, TPM, energy saving). Ensure all work is conducted safely and in accordance with food safety, health and safety, and hygiene regulations (HACCP, GMP, PUWER). Update maintenance records and log all work through our CMMS; maintain accurate parts usage and inventory records. Participate in out-of-hours call-out rota as required (with additional allowances). Train and mentor operators on basic troubleshooting and first-line maintenance. Communicate effectively with colleagues at all levels, including shift handovers and engineering meetings.

Skills & Competencies:

Demonstrable multi-skilled proficiency--electrical and mechanical systems (NVQ3, HNC, ONC or equivalent preferred). Strong diagnostic, problem-solving, and analytical skills. Experience with PLC systems (Siemens/Allen Bradley) and automated controls desirable. Familiarity with pumps, motors, conveyors, pneumatics, hydraulics, temperature and pressure systems within a food, beverage, or packaging environment. Understanding of safety regulations, including Lock Out-Tag Out, risk assessments, and environmental compliance. Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical manuals. Proactive, organised, and detail-focused approach. Strong communication skills and a commitment to team-based problem-solving.

Qualifications & Experience:

Time-served engineering apprenticeship or equivalent (City & Guilds, NVQ Level 3, BTEC, HNC/HND) in Engineering, Electrical, Mechanical, or Multi-Skilled Engineering. Proven engineering experience in a FMCG, food/drinks production, or high-speed packaging environment. Experience with food safety frameworks (HACCP, GMP) and relevant legal standards (PUWER, LOLER, DSEAR, etc.). Flexibility to work shifts and participate in the call-out rota.

Shift Patterns:

Typically Panama/Continental shifts (e.g., 12 hours, 4-on-4-off, with options for overtime), conforming to modern UK manufacturing schedule norms and supporting work-life balance.

Why Work With Us?

Play a key role in technical innovation and growth in a forward-thinking, invested food manufacturing business. Highly competitive pay with clear progression paths and a dedicated CPD/training budget. Work with the latest production technology in a modern, safe, and supportive environment. Full PPE, uniform, and all tools provided. Join a collaborative team focused on professional excellence and continuous improvement.

How to Apply:

Please apply promptly with a CV outlining your engineering qualifications and recent experience, including your notice period. Shortlisting will begin immediately.

Diversity Statement:

At Get The Drinks In, we are committed to equality in employment and welcome applications from all sections of the community. If you have a disability and need support to apply or participate in the selection process, please let us know. We strictly comply with all aspects of the Equality Act 2010.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From 52,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person