Manufacturing Devlopment Manager

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.

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.

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.