Role Profile

Technical Manager

Typical job description:

Technical Managers investigate and manage the introduction of new products and processing or manufacturing equipment. They also ensure that existing products manufactured by the company are produced in the most efficient and effective way by organising and introducing continuous manufacturing and business improvement techniques. This may involve improved methods of working, new or modifications to processing equipment.

The work involves constant examination of existing manufacturing methods in order to identify improvements and to solve technical or processing problems as they arise, usually through a team of process technicians or machine setters. Considerable liaison with existing and new customers is necessary to retain and win new business. Project managing the introduction of new business and the necessary equipment and technology required for manufacturing is also necessary.

Key Processes:

The exact nature of the work will depend on the size of the employing organisation.
However, it will almost certainly involve:

  • Liaison with customers to solve technical problems
  • Assist secure new business by providing solutions to new customer/product implementation
  • Project manage continuous improvement initiatives and new product development
  • Writing and conducting analysis on technical reports.
  • Work in development teams to introduce new materials, products
  • Advise on the suitability of which materials to use in the manufacture of the product
  • Work with customers, designers and material suppliers

Entry Level:

HNC/D or Degree in Polymer or Materials Science/Engineering or Manufacturing Management. Promotion from within the company can often come from Process Technicians with Team Leader roles having skill and competence in product trials and development and possessing minimum NC/D in Materials or Engineering disciplines.

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Pay and conditions:

Starting salaries for this position commence at £27,000 to £40,000 per year.

Technical Managers usually work 37 hours per week. Some jobs involve extensive travel to customers and materials/equipment suppliers. Frequently called upon during unsociable hours, to resolve technical manufacturing and Customer problems.

Industry Standard:

HNC/D or Degree in Polymer or Materials Science. Plus a management or Supervisory Qualification

Competencies:

  • Management Skills
  • Analytical & diagnostic skills
  • High standard in computer literacy.
  • Good communication, presentation and written skills
  • Materials processing techniques
  • Accuracy and attention to detail
  • Project Management
  • Design & Engineering Principles
  • Basic competence in Tooling and Product Design criteria

Knowledge needed for the role:

  • Knowledge of the properties, characteristics and processing behaviour of polymer materials
  • Current processing technology methods
  • Information Communications Technology
  • Specifications and procedures
  • Business & Process Improvement Techniques
  • Industry Trends

Other information:

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