Maintenance Engineer - Night Shift

Job Title: Maintenance Engineer – Night shift
Location: Northampton

Hours: Sunday to Thursday 6pm to 3am with 1 hour for lunch
Salary: Up to £50,000 per annum + Benefits
Contract Type: Permanent | Full-Time
Industry: Food Manufacturing / FMCG

Overview:

A leading food manufacturing organisation is seeking a skilled and experienced Maintenance Engineer to join their Engineering team at a well-established, high-volume production facility in Northamptonshire. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a dynamic, safety-first environment with a strong emphasis on preventative maintenance, continuous improvement, and engineering excellence.

The Role:

Reporting directly to the Maintenance & Engineering Manager, the Maintenance Engineer will be responsible for maintaining and improving the performance, reliability, and efficiency of a wide range of high-speed food processing equipment. The role includes both planned and reactive maintenance, with a strong focus on safety, compliance, and minimising downtime.

Key Responsibilities:

• Execute planned preventative maintenance (PPM) and condition-based tasks on time and in line with the CMMS system.
• Diagnose and resolve breakdowns quickly and effectively across mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.
• Conduct electro-mechanical repairs to PLC-controlled machinery including industrial ovens, freezers, slicers, sealers, and refrigeration units (Ammonia/glycol).
• Monitor machine performance and support production teams during start-ups and throughout shifts.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives, equipment upgrades, and new installations.
• Collaborate with suppliers and external contractors where necessary.
• Provide coaching and technical support to apprentices and junior team members.
• Maintain clear records of maintenance activity, order spare parts, and deliver effective shift handovers.
• Adhere strictly to all site policies regarding Health & Safety, Food Safety, GMP, and environmental practices.

What We're Looking For:

Essential Qualifications & Experience:

• Recognised trade qualification – Electrician or Fitter.
• Minimum 3 years’ post-apprenticeship experience in a regulated manufacturing environment.
• Strong multi-skilled background across mechanical and electrical disciplines.
• Excellent diagnostic and fault-finding skills in fast-paced, high-volume settings.
• Familiarity with PLCs, automation systems, high-speed packaging and handling machinery.
• Comfortable reading and working from electrical and mechanical schematics.

Desirable Experience:

• Experience with high voltage equipment, industrial microwaves, and gas ovens.
• Prior work in food manufacturing or similarly regulated environments.

Core Competencies:

• Team player with a proactive and self-motivated attitude.
• Excellent attention to detail and focus on quality and results.
• Good IT skills and ability to use maintenance software.
• Clear communicator with a commitment to safety and operational excellence.
• Flexibility to work shifts and respond to business needs.

Why Apply?

• Join a well-invested facility with modern production technologies.
• Work in a collaborative environment where safety and quality are paramount.
• Opportunity for training, upskilling, and career progression within a stable business.
• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.