Our client, a thriving product engineering firm based in Surrey, specialises in delivering high-quality installations and service solutions to clients throughout the United Kingdom. With a unique workforce comprising both office-based administrative and technical staff alongside engineers who travel extensively for product installations and service calls, the company faced significant challenges in maintaining consistent HR practices and compliance across their dispersed team.
The engineering firm approached us with several critical HR challenges that were impacting their operational efficiency and growth potential:
Workforce Management Complexity
Managing a dual workforce presented unique difficulties. Office-based staff operated under traditional employment structures, whilst field engineers required flexible arrangements that accommodated extensive travel, varying work hours, and project-based assignments across South-East England and beyond.
With engineers working at multiple client sites nationwide, ensuring consistent health and safety compliance, maintaining accurate records, and managing certifications became increasingly complex. The company needed a robust system to track engineer qualifications, training requirements, and site-specific compliance documentation.
Communication Gaps
The physical separation between office staff and field engineers created communication challenges. Important HR updates, policy changes, and company announcements often failed to reach mobile workers promptly, leading to inconsistencies in practices and occasional compliance oversights.
Scalability Concerns
As the business pursued growth opportunities, their existing HR infrastructure struggled to support expansion. Manual processes and fragmented systems made it difficult to onboard new engineers efficiently or maintain oversight as the team grew.
We conducted a comprehensive HR audit to understand the specific needs of both office-based and field-based personnel. Our methodology focused on creating scalable, practical solutions that would work in real-world engineering environments rather than imposing rigid corporate structures unsuited to the sector.
Discovery and Assessment
Through detailed interviews with management, office staff, and field engineers, we identified pain points and gathered insights about daily operations. We shadowed engineers during installations to understand the practical challenges they faced regarding HR administration whilst on the road.
Tailored Solution Design
Recognising that off-the-shelf HR solutions often fail engineering firms with mobile workforces, we designed bespoke processes and documentation that reflected the realities of installation work. This included considering scenarios such as emergency callouts, extended projects away from home, and the need for rapid deployment of resources.
Solutions Implemented
We developed distinct but complementary employment frameworks that addressed the specific needs of office-based staff and mobile engineers whilst maintaining company-wide consistency in core values and compliance standards.
Office Staff Structure:
Field Engineer Framework:
We designed and implemented a full suite of HR policies tailored specifically to the engineering sector, addressing both office-based and field operations. These policies covered employment contracts, health and safety protocols, expenses and travel, disciplinary and grievance procedures, and data protection—all written in clear, accessible language suitable for engineers working remotely.
We selected, implemented, and now manage Breathe HR software for the client that serves the entire workforce. The Breathe HR system provides mobile access for field engineers to view payslips, submit expenses, book annual leave, and access important documents whilst on site. We handle all system administration, ensuring data accuracy and security whilst providing ongoing management and user support.
Acting as the company’s trusted HR provider, we manage all day-to-day HR administration on an as-needed basis. From processing new starters and managing employee records to handling confidential matters and routine queries, we provide seamless HR support that allows management to focus on core business operations. Our team is entrusted with sensitive employee information and maintains strict confidentiality protocols.
We designed and implemented a structured Personal Development Plan (PDP) programme that recognises the different career paths within the organisation. For field engineers, this includes technical skills progression, safety certifications, and leadership opportunities. Office staff have tailored development plans aligned with their roles and career aspirations, creating a culture of continuous improvement across the business.
Understanding the pressures faced by engineers working away from home and office staff managing operations, we established a comprehensive workplace wellbeing support system. This involved delivering Mental Health First Aid support and guidance within the organisation and creating accessible support pathways. We developed resources specifically addressing the challenges of mobile working, including isolation, work-life balance, and stress management.
We implemented and regularly analyse employee engagement surveys to gather honest feedback from across the workforce. The insights gained have driven meaningful improvements in working conditions, communication, and company culture. We established an Employee Forum, giving staff a genuine voice in business decisions, particularly important for field engineers who might otherwise feel disconnected from head office.
We provide ongoing advice and support to senior managers and business leaders on HR strategy, workforce planning, and organisational development. This includes succession planning, restructuring considerations, and strategic guidance to support business growth objectives within the competitive engineering sector across South-East England.
Recognising that technical excellence must be complemented by soft skills, we deliver one-to-one coaching for employees across various areas including building self-confidence, handling difficult customer conversations, managing conflict, and addressing negative thought patterns. This support extends beyond workplace issues to help employees with personal challenges affecting their wellbeing and performance.
We handled sensitive situations including redundancy and restructure processes, ensuring legal compliance whilst maintaining dignity and fairness. We conduct thorough employee investigations when issues arise, following proper procedures to protect both the business and individuals involved.
Improved Operational Efficiency
The implementation of HR software and streamlined processes reduced administrative burden by approximately 60%, freeing management time to focus on business development and client relationships. Field engineers now handle routine HR tasks through mobile devices, eliminating delays and paperwork backlogs.
Enhanced Compliance and Risk Management
The comprehensive policy framework and compliance tracking system have eliminated HR-related compliance issues. All engineers maintain up-to-date certifications, and the company can demonstrate robust HR practices during client audits a significant competitive advantage when tendering for contracts.
Increased Employee Engagement and Retention
Employee engagement scores increased significantly following the implementation of the wellbeing programme and Employee Forum. Staff turnover reduced by 40% in the first year, with exit interview data showing improvements in areas previously cited as concerns. The company has become an employer of choice for skilled engineers in the region.
Stronger Business Foundation for Growth
With robust HR infrastructure in place, the company successfully expanded their workforce by 35% whilst maintaining service quality and employee satisfaction. The scalable systems and processes support continued growth without proportional increases in HR administrative costs.
Better Mental Health and Wellbeing
The Mental Health First Aid support and coaching services have created a more supportive workplace culture. Absence rates related to stress and mental health decreased, and employees report feeling more supported both professionally and personally.
Get Expert HR Support for Your Engineering Company
Whether you’re facing specific HR challenges or looking for a strategic HR Consulting partnership to support the longer term plans for your engineering business, we provide tailored HR solutions for small to medium sized businesses in Sussex and Surrey .
Why This Matters for Engineering Firms in South-East England
If you’re running an engineering, installation, or service business in Surrey, Kent, Sussex, Hampshire, or elsewhere in South-East England, you’ll recognise these challenges. Managing a mobile workforce whilst maintaining compliance, supporting wellbeing, and driving growth requires specialist HR expertise that understands your sector.
Our approach combines practical, field-tested solutions with strategic HR support that grows with your business. Whether you employ five engineers or fifty, we can help you build an HR foundation that supports your people and your ambitions.
Key Takeaways for Engineering Business Owners
Client Testimonial
“The HR support we’ve received has transformed how we operate. Having experts who understand the complexities of managing field engineers alongside office staff has been invaluable. We can now focus on delivering excellent service to our clients, knowing that our people are properly supported, compliant, and engaged. The Personal Development Plans and coaching have been particularly impactful and we’re seeing our engineers grow not just technically but as confident professionals.”
Managing Director, Product Engineering Firm, Surrey
About our HR Services
We specialise in providing comprehensive HR solutions to engineering firms, installation companies, and professional service businesses across South-East England. Our team understands the unique challenges of managing dispersed workforces and delivers practical, compliant HR support that adapts to your business needs.
From day-to-day HR administration to strategic workforce planning, we act as your trusted HR partner, allowing you to focus on what you do best: delivering excellent engineering solutions to your clients.
Contact us to discuss how we can support your engineering business with tailored HR solutions on 01403 916727 or via email info@mjvconsulting.co.uk.
