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Job Title


Engineering Manager


Company : The Thrive Team


Location : Barrow-In-Furness, England


Created : 2026-01-11


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

We are seeking an Engineering Manager to lead and develop our Engineering function at a pivotal stage of the business journey.Recent leadership changes have created a genuine opportunity to reset structure, culture, and capability within a growing engineering organisation of around 45 people. With a new General Manager in place and a strong pipeline of work—particularly within defence, nuclear, and complex infrastructure projects—this role offers the chance to make a visible and lasting impact.This is a hands-on leadership role, combining strong mechanical engineering credibility with people development, process improvement, and delivery excellence.The RoleAs Engineering Manager, you will be responsible for leading the Engineering team across multiple complex projects—from business winning and concept design through product development, production introduction, and final customer delivery.You will ensure engineering activities are delivered safely, compliantly, and to the highest quality standards, while contributing directly to the commercial performance and future growth of the business.Key ResponsibilitiesLead and coordinate complex engineering projects from initiation through to deliveryProvide technical leadership and act as a senior customer interfaceLead the resolution of complex technical issues, internally and externallyPlan and coordinate engineering resources to optimise delivery and capabilityShape programmes of work using sound engineering judgementProvide engineering input into wider project management activitiesChampion quality, health, safety, and environmental standardsBuild, structure, and develop the engineering teamFoster a high-performance, collaborative engineering cultureMentor and develop engineers at all levelsDrive continuous improvement in tools, processes, and ways of workingTeam & GrowthYou will inherit a small but capable team and have the opportunity to build and shape an almost entirely new engineering function:2 Design Engineers (graduate and experienced)Planned growth to 5–6 engineers, including Design and Project EngineersYou will work closely with the General Manager and benefit from wider group engineering support.Experience, Skills & QualificationsEssentialDegree or HND in EngineeringStrong mechanical engineering backgroundExperience delivering complex engineering projects to time and budgetStrong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skillsHighly organised with excellent attention to detailDesirableExperience with pipework, skid structures, and pressure systems / small vesselsNuclear or defence sector experience (highly desirable)Awareness of emerging engineering technologies and best practiceWhat We’re Looking ForA technically credible engineering leader, not just a people managerSomeone comfortable building teams, developing capability, and setting standardsA forward-thinking, solutions-focused mindsetConfident engaging directly with customers and stakeholdersAdaptable, curious, and committed to continuous improvementWhy Join?Rare opportunity to shape a function and its culture from the ground upStrong enquiry pipeline, including work with BAE Systems and nuclear clientsVisible leadership role within a smaller, growing organisationSupportive senior leadership and momentum for changeSignificant growth potential as operational performance improvesWorking PatternSite-critical role4 days on-site (Monday–Thursday)Friday half-dayHybrid / remote working not suitableIf you are an Engineering Manager who enjoys building teams, leading through change, and delivering complex engineering projects, this role offers both stability and the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy.