
Factory IT Manager (Manufacturing)
- Manchester
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Managing IT operations linked to semiconductor tool interfaces, factory automation, Manufacturing Execution Systems and Data Infrastructure.
- Collaborating with Fab Operations, Process and Equipment Engineering, and Facilities teams to support production needs and optimise system uptime.
- Ensure the reliability, availability, and performance of IT systems critical to fab manufacturing processes (e.g., MES, SPC, APC, SECS/GEM interfaces, Plant Maintenance).
- Managing and coordinating factory IT projects including upgrades, migrations, new tool integration, and system improvements.
- Developing and implementing IT standards, procedures, and documentation to support fab operations and industry compliance (e.g., ISO, VDA, or SEMI standards).
- Driving digital innovation and automation initiatives, including the use of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for predictive maintenance, yield optimisation, and smart factory solutions, including interfacing with robotics.
- Ensuring cybersecurity best practices are enforced across all fab-connected systems.
- Overseeing vendor relationships, service contracts, and IT support staff or contractors on-site, including a dedicated Factory Systems Support team (CIM), Operational Technology Engineers, Data Engineers and Web Developers
- Monitoring and reporting on system performance, availability, and incident response metrics.
- Providing leadership in incident management and root cause analysis for system-related issues, while also ensuring effective change control procedures for all changes introduced to the factory (ITIL)
- Managing and leading a team of eight IT professionals with growth plans.
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Electrical Engineering, or related field
- 7+ years of IT experience in a manufacturing or semiconductor environment, with at least 3 years in a leadership role
- In-depth knowledge of fab manufacturing systems, including MES (e.g., FACTORYworks, CIM, or proprietary), tool automation, SECS/GEM protocols, Plant Maintenance (Xsite), APC/SPC systems
- Experience in managing mission-critical IT infrastructure in a 24/7 operational environment
- Strong understanding of IT networking, databases (SQL, Oracle), server (Windows, Linux), storage systems, and virtualisation
- Familiarity with cybersecurity frameworks and regulatory compliance relevant to semiconductor manufacturing
- Excellent problem-solving, project management, and communication skills
- Ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage multiple priorities in a high-pressure environment
- Ability to work on-site full-time with occasional travel to other sites
- Ability to work in the United Kingdom without the need for visa sponsorship
- Real-world experience in integrating robotic loading, MES and with automated recipe download
- Knowledge of Industry 4.0 technologies and implementation experience
- ITIL or relevant technical certifications
- Prior experience in a Semiconductor Wafer Fab is a strong plus, but not essential