Machining and Plating Manager – Ramsgate

AEM Limited became part of AMETEK Inc. in 2007, joining a global leader in electronic instruments and electromechanical devices. Operating within AMETEK MRO’s Aerospace and Defence Division, AEM is a recognised provider of third‑party MRO services to commercial, regional, military, helicopter, and business aviation customers.

We are now seeking an experienced Machining and Plating Manager to lead our Machining & Plating Business Unit (MPBU) at our Ramsgate site.

Role Overview

The Machining and Plating Manager is responsible for maximising production throughput, ensuring adherence to Quantum forward load schedules, and maintaining rigorous Environmental, Health, Safety and Quality standards. This role will drive continuous improvement, oversee technical support for the MPBU and Laboratory, and ensure non‑conformances and audit findings are fully resolved in a timely manner.

You will lead, develop, and mentor the MPBU team, ensuring processes, equipment, and personnel all operate to the highest standards in support of current and new product requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Operational Management

• Lead, plan, organise, and direct all activities within the Machining and Plating Business Unit.
• Manage and support the MPBU Supervisors across:
  • Metal Finishing: Chrome, Nickel, Cadmium, Silver, Tin, Copper, Phosphate, Heat Treatment, Nital Etch, and associated processes.
  • Processes Section: Shotpeen, NDT, Paint Refinishing and Operations Office.
  • Machine Shop: CNC, Turning, Precision Grinding, Boring, Milling.
• Maintain consistently high standards of communication across MPBU and with FPBU operations.
• Plan and develop training for all MPBU staff, ensuring timely completion of APDR processes and competence assessments.
• Support staff selection, equipment decisions, and succession planning.

Production & Quality Performance

• Manage production planning using Quantum Forward Load Reports, ensuring schedules and throughput targets are met.
• Drive improvements in efficiency, manpower utilisation, and process effectiveness.
• Ensure all quality requirements are consistently met and corrective actions (NCRs, audit findings) are thoroughly investigated and closed out.
• Oversee machine maintenance support within the team.
• Promote a strong culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Safety, Compliance & Documentation

• Ensure full compliance with Environmental, Health and Safety legislation and internal standards.
• Maintain accurate, up‑to‑date SOPs, Risk Assessments, and Local Instructions, ensuring all team members understand and follow requirements.
• Drive continual improvement in safety performance, addressing both physical and behavioural safety issues.

Experience & Qualifications

Essential

• Minimum 5 years' experience in an engineering environment, including 3 years in a line management role.
• Strong IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Proven understanding and application of Lean principles.
• Experience managing Environmental, Health and Safety requirements.
• Competence in completing and reviewing Risk Assessments.
• Relevant engineering qualification.
• Lean certification.
• ILM Level 2 (or equivalent leadership qualification).
• IOSH Managing Safety (or equivalent).
• Certificate in Risk Assessment.
• GCSE (or equivalent) in Maths and English.