# Manufacturing Devlopment Manager

**Company:** [Material Evolution](https://jobs.workable.com/companies/sJZeZWFqLkwbAWqFMAheYH.md)
**Location:** Durham, United Kingdom
**Workplace:** on site
**Employment type:** Full-time
**Department:** Ops

[Apply for this job](https://jobs.workable.com/view/0132184d-6324-4131-8732-d94be77744c6)

## Description

**About us**

Material Evolution is a materials technology company founded in 2020 by Dr. Liz Gilligan and Sam Clark. Headquartered in Middlesbrough, in 2024 we commissioned the UK’s largest ultra-low-carbon cement factory in Wrexham.

We exist to solve one of the world’s toughest climate problems. As a team of scientists, engineers, and commercial and operational experts, we’re rethinking how essential materials are made; starting with cement, an industry responsible for around 8% of global CO₂ emissions.

Backed by leading impact and technology investors, we’re on a mission to rapidly and radically decarbonise industrial materials. If you’re motivated by real-world impact and want to work close to the heart of a purpose-driven business, you’ll feel at home here.

**Manufacturing Operations & Leadership**

-   Lead production teams, managing performance, training and development.
-   Oversee production planning, resources, stock control and operational delivery.
-   Ensure manufacturing targets, quality standards and efficiency are achieved.

### Engineering & Maintenance

-   Develop and manage planned preventative maintenance (PPM) programmes.
-   Undertake hands-on fault finding, troubleshooting and equipment maintenance within appropriate competence.
-   Lead equipment installation, commissioning and upgrades, coordinating external contractors where required.

### Manufacturing Development & Scale-Up

-   Lead manufacturing process development and scale-up to commercial production.
-   Work with R&D teams to introduce and optimise manufacturing processes.
-   Drive improvements in equipment performance, automation and production capacity.

### Health, Safety & Quality

-   Ensure compliance with health, safety and quality requirements.
-   Develop and maintain SOPs, risk assessments and safe working practices.
-   Maintain product quality, batch traceability and accurate production records.

### Continuous Improvement

-   Improve productivity, equipment reliability and manufacturing efficiency.
-   Monitor production KPIs, downtime, waste and operating costs.
-   Support operational planning and future equipment investment.

## Requirements

**Essential**

-   Strong experience in manufacturing, production engineering or industrial operations.
-   Proven ability to lead production teams and manage day-to-day manufacturing activities.
-   Practical mechanical engineering knowledge and hands-on equipment maintenance experience.
-   Experience implementing PPM programmes, fault finding and troubleshooting industrial equipment.
-   Good understanding of manufacturing processes, production planning and operational efficiency.
-   Experience improving equipment reliability, production performance and manufacturing processes.
-   Strong knowledge of industrial health and safety requirements.
-   Confident interpreting technical drawings, equipment manuals and engineering documentation.
-   Strong leadership, communication, organisation and problem-solving skills.
-   A proactive, hands-on approach with the ability to take ownership and work independently.
-   Valid driving licence permitting the operation of Category B vehicles in the UK.

**Desirable**

-   Engineering qualification or recognised apprenticeship in mechanical, electrical or manufacturing engineering.
-   Experience in batch manufacturing, process manufacturing or bulk materials handling.
-   Experience scaling manufacturing processes from pilot to commercial production.
-   Knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems or industrial automation.
-   Experience commissioning, modifying or developing manufacturing equipment.
-   Experience working with R&D teams on new manufacturing processes.
-   Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, 5S, OEE and continuous improvement.
-   Experience managing engineering contractors, budgets and equipment suppliers.

## Benefits

**Our Benefits and Perks:**

At Material Evolution, we provide everything you need to perform at your best. Our rewards, benefits, and initiatives are designed to support your career growth, enhance your well-being, and contribute positively to our community. 

Along with a competitive salary, we offer an outstanding benefits package, including 25 days holiday (plus an extra day for your birthday), access to a learning & development budget and social events. At Material Evolution, we are passionate about well-being and have partnered with a leading healthcare provider.