Engineering Manager
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Nov 1, 2026. First seen by Alion on Oct 29, 2026. Specialist Passenger Solutions scores A on the Alion truth index.
About First Bus:
Are you ready to advance your career with one of the UK's leading bus operators? Join a forward-thinking company that embraces cutting-edge bus technology, from innovative mobile apps to environmentally friendly vehicles. We are passionate about delivering passenger journeys that are sustainable, comfortable, and efficient. We are at the forefront of innovation in the industry, connecting communities and shaping the future of public transport.
Position: Engineering Manager
Location: Rochdale Depot, 4 Corporation Road OL11 4EU
Salary: £55,000 DOE
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Engineering Manager to lead our engineering team at our busy Rochdale Depot and oversee the day-to-day operations of our workshop and depot infrastructure. This is a critical leadership role within our organisation, responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, and cost-effective engineering operations in line with regulatory and company standards. The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering operational excellence, maintaining fleet availability, and driving continuous improvement across the engineering function.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, motivate, and support a team of skilled engineering professionals
- Oversee the effective running of the depot and engineering workshop
- Ensure full compliance with Health, Safety, Environmental, and Engineering policies and legislation
- Monitor and control departmental budgets and costs
- Drive performance to minimise vehicle downtime and lost mileage
- Conduct staff training, performance reviews, and development planning
- Ensure compliance with statutory vehicle maintenance requirements and quality standards
- Maintain strong communication with senior management and cross-functional teams
- Develop and implement engineering processes and continuous improvement initiatives
- Manage subcontracted engineering work and contractor performance
- Uphold a positive and proactive safety culture across the team
Candidate Requirements
- Proven experience in an engineering management or supervisory role
- NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent qualification) in Mechanical Engineering or related field
- Strong knowledge of vehicle maintenance legislation (VOSA, MOT, safety inspections, etc.)
- Demonstrable leadership and team development skills
- Competent in the use of relevant IT systems including SAP and MS Office
- Working knowledge of safe systems of work, risk assessments, and engineering standards
- Strong organisational and communication skills
- Ability to work flexibly to meet operational needs
- A full PCV license and/or forklift truck license (or willingness to obtain one) is desirable
Key Performance Indicators
Performance in this role will be measured against a range of criteria, including:
- Fleet availability and spare fleet targets
- Engineering cost control (labour and materials)
- Health, safety, and environmental compliance
- Workshop efficiency and productivity
- MOT first-time pass rates and VOSA audit outcomes
- Repeat defect reduction
- Team development and attendance management
- Stock control and depot utilities management
Applicants are advised that background checks will be conducted as a standard part of our recruitment process and to comply with UK employment requirements, we ask all applicants to confirm their right to work in the UK.
Rewards:
- Your health is important to us which is why we offer Simply Health & Smart Health for you and your dependents at no cost to you! This offering includes cash-back benefits across optical & dental as well as virtual GP appointments, mental health support and nutrition and fitness advise. Our EAP provision offers 24hr, 365 days a year mental health support
- We are also committed to your financial wellbeing, and we offer a platform with many discounts on high street brands and supermarkets etc
- Working at First you also receive discounted train travel for you and your family after 6 months service as well as a free bus pass
- Free onsite parking + cycle to work scheme
- Up to 5 weeks holiday + bank holidays
- Pension scheme and chance to buy discounted FirstGroup shares