Lead Engineering Operations Manager

About Us

We are Ocado Group, and we're bringing world-class automation to online grocery. Our Ocado Smart Platform (OSP) combines cutting-edge robotics, AI, and IoT within our advanced CFCs (Customer Fulfilment Centres). We've mastered the single pick, transforming online delivery for our global partners. Join us and be part of a team pushing the boundaries of retail technology.

About the Role

The Lead Engineering Operations Manager is a full-time, on-site role based in Luton, responsible for leading day-to-day engineering operations within a state-of-the-art, highly automated fulfilment centre. In this position, you will coordinate engineering teams to maximise automated system performance, drive continuous improvement, and minimise downtime through rigorous maintenance and reliability strategies. Partnering closely with cross-functional stakeholders across logistics, technology, and HSE, you will align engineering goals with core business objectives while fostering a culture of safety and operational excellence. Additionally, you will mentor and develop engineering leaders and technicians, ensure full compliance with quality and safety standards, and contribute directly to strategic planning for site capacity and future capability.

About you

• Education & Background: Hold a degree in engineering or operations (mechanical, electrical, industrial, or systems engineering) or equivalent practical experience.
• Industry & Technical Expertise: Bring strong operations and engineering management capabilities within automated, high-volume fulfilment, logistics, or manufacturing environments, including knowledge of maintenance planning, reliability engineering, and technical problem-solving.
• Data-Driven & Strategic Execution: Possess demonstrated analytical skills to interpret operational data and diagnose issues, alongside proven program management experience delivering complex initiatives on time and within scope.
• Leadership & Culture: A skilled team leader who excels at coaching diverse engineering teams and building an inclusive, safety-first environment.
• Communication & Adaptability: Exhibit exceptional communication skills for cross-functional stakeholder management, thriving on-site in a fast-paced, evolving, and technology-driven environment.

What we offer

We believe in supporting our people with meaningful, flexible benefits that prioritise well-being and work-life balance. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect:

• Time to recharge:
  25 days annual leave (rising to 27 after 5 years), plus the option to buy more
• Health & wellbeing:
  Private Medical Insurance from your first month, wellbeing support through specialist apps and EAP, plus Income Protection and Life Assurance.
• Family-first policies:
  22 weeks paid maternity/primary carer leave and 6 weeks paid paternity leave
• Financial support:
  Pension with employer matching up to 7%, share schemes (Sharesave & BAYE), and interest-free loans for train tickets.
• Commuter perks:
  Cycle to Work Scheme and free shuttle buses to/from Hatfield and Welwyn Garden City stations.
• Exclusive discounts:
  15% off at Ocado.com with free delivery (starting in your first month).

Financial assistance is available for eligible UK candidates relocating 35 miles or more for this role

Ocado is an equal opportunities employer and as such make every effort to ensure that all potential employers are treated fairly and equally, regardless of their sex, sexual orientation, marital status, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion, age, disability or union membership status.

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