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