The job of workshop manager can apply to almost any shop floor, but is mostly associated with the automotive industry. Key aspects of the job are to supervise staff, provide ongoing practical assistance, technical support and training and to maintain the workshop and its machinery and equipment in good order.
The manger will also need to liaise with other departments as well as with customers to answer any queries and provide service at a high level. The workshop manager is instrumental in raising the customer service level of the company
In most companies, whatever they manufacture, the job will involve liaising with purchasing departments and even sub-contractors on a daily basis, requiring good communications skills and a thorough knowledge of the product and its components. A mechanical, engineering and supervisory background is required for the position by the majority of employers, as is a positive and enthusiastic attitude.
Salaries vary according to the type of workshop to be supervised, with an average of between £25,000 and £30,000 the norm for most companies.