Process Manager

Are you an experienced thermal processing specialist looking to take ownership of a high-tech vacuum heat treatment operation? If you thrive on optimizing complex thermal cycles, solving technical challenges, and driving precision engineered solutions, this is your next career step. Process Manager - Vacuum Heat Treatment Location: Hitchin / Stevenage area (Hertfordshire) Contract: Full-time, Permanent (On-site) Salary: £55,000-£70,000 Benefits: Profit share scheme, Life insurance, Enhanced sick pay, Employee discount scheme, and continuous professional development We are partnering with a world-class, global leader in advanced surface technologies and thermal processing solutions. Operating at the forefront of high-precision engineering, they provide critical thermal treatment services to high-spec industries including aerospace, automotive, and advanced manufacturing. Combining cutting-edge furnace technology with a safety-first, quality-driven culture, they offer a dynamic environment where technical expertise is genuinely valued and rewarded. The Role & Responsibilities Process Leadership: Own, refine, and optimize critical thermal cycle parameters across high-tech vacuum furnaces to ensure maximum output and strict metallurgy standards. Operational Oversight: Monitor daily vacuum furnace cycles, leading the shop-floor operation to meet demanding customer production schedules safely and efficiently. Technical Troubleshooting: Drive root-cause investigations to diagnose process deviations, cycle errors, or mechanical issues, maintaining high equipment uptime. Quality & SOPs: Draft, update, and enforce robust process documentation, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and work instructions for full audit readiness. Commercial Synergy: Act as the technical expert to support internal commercial teams with complex customer queries and accurate job estimations. What We're Looking For Vacuum Heat Treatment Expertise: Deep, hands-on background in vacuum heat treatment is essential. Specifically at a process/metallurgical level, not just basic operational loading. Technical Understanding: Proven ability to program parameters, troubleshoot vacuum furnace systems, and understand the science behind thermal cycles. Continuous Improvement: Familiarity with modern manufacturing practices (Lean, ISO environments, or POM principles). Leadership Aptitude: Previous supervisory or management experience is beneficial, but for the right technical process specialist, leadership skills can be fully trained and supported. INDHP