Production Manager

Job Title: Production Manager – CNC Machining

Location: Clitheroe

Salary: Circa £55,000 - £60,000 dependant on experience

PLEASE NO AGENCIES OR RECRUITERS

Are you a hands-on machining leader ready to make your mark?

Do you have a machine shop background, a genuine continuous improvement mindset, and the drive to help a growing business reach its next level?

Are you a time-served machinist who has stepped into supervision, understands OEE and shop-floor performance, and knows how to turn a production schedule into reality?

This could be your next challenge.....

We’re looking for someone who can bring together technical machining expertise, people leadership and production execution, someone who doesn’t just manage the schedule, but gets involved, challenges the status quo and continually looks for ways to improve productivity, quality and efficiency.

With the business growing quickly, this is an opportunity for someone with drive, determination and ambition to play a key role in shaping how the machine shop operates and grows.

If you thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, enjoy solving problems, improving performance and getting the best from a team, we’d like to hear from you.

About Bryden Precision Engineering:

Bryden Precision Engineering is a CNC machining business supplying complex, high-precision components into the aerospace, defence, utilities, power and other safety-critical sectors. We are proud holders of AS9100 accreditation as we continue to grow.

Role Overview:

We are seeking an experienced and driven Production Manager to lead operations within a high-precision, sub-contract CNC machining facility. This role is responsible for overseeing daily production across CNC milling and turning operations, ensuring delivery of high-tolerance components in a regulated, AS9100-accredited environment. You will play a central role in enhancing an already high-performing shop floor, driving continuous improvement through modern manufacturing techniques, automation, and strategic capital investment (CAPEX). A strong focus on efficiency metrics such as OEE, TPM, and spindle utilization will be critical to success.

Key Responsibilities:

• Production Leadership
• Manage day-to-day operations of CNC milling and turning departments
• Ensure production targets, quality standards, and delivery schedules are consistently met
• Lead, mentor, and develop shop floor teams, including supervisors, machinists, and technicians
• Operational Excellence
• Drive improvements in Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), and spindle efficiency
• Implement lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives
• Optimise workflow, scheduling, and resource allocation
• Quality & Compliance
• Maintain compliance with AS9100 standards and other regulatory requirements
• Ensure all processes meet high-precision engineering and customer specifications
• Work closely with Quality and Engineering teams to resolve issues and implement corrective actions
• Technology & Innovation
• Identify and implement modern machining techniques, automation, and digital solutions
• Lead CAPEX projects, including justification, selection, and commissioning of new equipment
• Stay current with industry advancements in CNC machining and precision engineering
• Performance Management
• Monitor and report on key KPIs including productivity, scrap rates, downtime, and efficiency
• Develop action plans to address performance gaps
• Foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement
• Health, Safety & Environment
• Promote a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with all HSE regulations
• Conduct risk assessments and implement safe working practices

Required Experience & Skills:

• Minimum 5 years’ experience managing a CNC machining or precision engineering facility
• Strong background in sub-contract machining environments
• Proven expertise in CNC milling and turning operations
• Demonstrated success in improving OEE, TPM, and spindle utilization
• Experience working within a regulated, AS9100-accredited environment
• Solid understanding of high-tolerance manufacturing and precision components
• Experience leading CAPEX investment projects and implementing automation
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Data-driven mindset with the ability to analyse and act on performance metrics

Desirable:

• Engineering degree or equivalent technical qualification
• Experience with ERP/MES systems
• Lean Six Sigma or continuous improvement certification
• Time-served machinist (apprenticeship-trained preferred)
• Hands-on CNC programming experience (e.g., Fanuc, Heidenhain, Siemens or CAM systems)

What We Offer:

• Opportunity to lead and shape a high-performing machining operation
• Investment in modern equipment and automation technologies
• A collaborative and quality-focused working environment
• Competitive salary and benefits package

Summary

This is a hands-on leadership role suited to someone who thrives in a fast-paced, high-precision manufacturing environment. You will be expected not just to manage, but to elevate performance—bringing fresh thinking, technical expertise, and a strong focus on continuous improvement.

To apply for the role please send a fully updated CV to our Recruitment Manager [email protected]

Pay: £55,000.00-£60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Free parking
• On-site parking

Work Location: In person