Job Description

Skill requirements

We are looking for an experienced and motivated Workshop Operations Manager with a fabrication background to join the team at Plunge Creations, one of the UK's leading creative construction and prop-making companies. Based in our busy workshop in Portslade, this role is central to ensuring the smooth, safe and efficient running of our production space. This is a highly hands-on role, involving in-house fixing and repairing, alongside day-to-day workshop operations. The Workshop Operations Manager plays a key part in enabling our talented makers to deliver high-quality builds across a wide range of exciting and varied projects -- from immersive installations to large-scale props and set pieces.

Full

Typical duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Workshop Management (Core Responsibilities)

Ensure day-to-day smooth and safe running of the workshops, offices and yard areas of all the buildings used by Plunge Creations and it's associated companies Develop, implement and maintain Health & Safety policies in conjunction with external advisors (e.g. Complete Health and Safety) Conduct or delegate toolbox talks, inductions, and regular H&S briefings Maintain up-to-date COSHH documentation and ensure compliance across the workshop Manage stock control, ordering, and replenishment of materials, consumables, tools and fixings Source suppliers and negotiate best prices to stay within budget Maintain, track and arrange servicing of buildings, tools, machinery, equipment and vehicles. Ensure timely servicing and repairs. Coordinate annual fire safety checks and PAT testing Oversee the maintenance and upkeep of all company vehicles, including organising payment of vehicle tax and arranging MOTs Oversee cleanliness, organisation, and layout efficiency of the workshop, offices and storage areas. Help ensure all buildings and facilities meet compliance standards for safety, accessibility, and legal requirements Organise contractor visits for any machinery or maintenance tasks not done in-house. Also, coordinate and respond to emergency repair needs to minimise disruption to workshop or project delivery Ensure correct waste and recycling management procedures are followed Liaise with landlords, service providers, and utility companies regarding building and facility needs Manage budgets for building, equipment, and vehicle upkeep to ensure cost-effective operation Collaborate with the Production Team to ensure project readiness and workshop availability Provide cover for the Production Manager or Resource Manager as required, and vice versa

Ad Hoc Making and Fabrication

Undertake hands-on fabrication or making work as required to support project deadlines or specialist builds Assist in on-site installations (rigs/de-rigs) when needed, subject to prior agreement Support safe handling and storage of tools, chemicals, and materials during making tasks

Required Skills and Attributes

Workshop Management: Prior experience running or supporting a creative workshop or maker space Health & Safety: Solid understanding of H&S practices; COSHH experience desirable (training provided if needed) Organisation: Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities Technical Knowledge: Broad hands-on making experience - woodwork, scenic construction, prop making, or similar Communication: Clear communicator able to brief and supervise team members effectively Problem Solving: Practical and proactive approach to maintenance and project challenges Procurement: Experience with sourcing and negotiating with suppliers and tracking workshop budgets Leadership: Capable of leading small teams and fostering a collaborative, respectful working environment Flexibility: Willingness to adapt roles as needed and assist with installations or other duties outside core hours

Why Join Us?

We offer a friendly, inclusive workplace where creativity and practicality go hand in hand. No two days are the same, and your work will directly support some of the UK's most imaginative projects and the team that brings them to life.

Note:

To show us you've read this job description thoroughly, you'll see a question in the application process asking, "What is the answer?" -- please answer "grapefruit".

If you're shortlisted, we'll send you an application form to complete so we have consistent information from all candidates. That form will include a similar question -- and yes, the answer is still "grapefruit".

We look forward to hearing from you!

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 30,000.00-35,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Casual dress Company events Company pension Free parking Sick pay
Application question(s):

What is the answer?
Work Location: In person