Job Description

The role of Lead Manufacturing Engineer in the industrial/manufacturing sector is pivotal in overseeing and improving manufacturing processes. This position requires a detail-oriented professional with expertise in engineering and manufacturing operations.

• Lead the prioritization & allocation of manufacturing engineering activities within the business unit, overseeing engineering delivery and ensuring robust solution are successfully achieved
• Analyse, develop, and optimize manufacturing processes to maximize quality, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and employee health & safety.
• Drive strong process control and process capability across all manufacturing operations to ensure consistent, reliable production outcomes
• Apply Lean Manufacturing and industrial engineering optimization techniques including kaizen, time studies, line balancing. and value stream mapping
• Lead and deliver continuous improvement initiatives targeting quality improvements, productivity gains, Right First Time (RFT) rates, and waste reduction.
• Support and execute the industrialization of New Product Introductions (NPI), including the development of production processes, tooling, work instructions, and validation plans.
• Collaborate with design and development teams to ensure manufacturability and seamless transition of new designs into production (Design for Manufacture and Assembly - DFMA principles).
• Apply APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) processes to ensure product and process readiness for manufacturing and timely delivery.
• Lead the PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) to verify that product designs and manufacturing processes meet specifications and are capable of mass production.
• Identify, propose, and implement process improvements, technology upgrades, and innovative manufacturing methods.

Opportunities for growth and developmentLead and Manage the Manufacturing team
A successful Lead Manufacturing Engineer should have:

• Demonstrable engineering team leadership experience in a cross-functional, industrial environment
• Engineering project management experience with a thorough understanding of the associated tools and techniques
• Extensive practical experience (typically 10+ years) in an industrial forging, machining, fabrication or similar manufacturing engineering role in aerospace, defense, automotive or high-spec industrial environments.
• Degree or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or similar.
• Strong understanding of process control and process capability (Cp, Cpk), including the use of statistical tools to validate and monitor production stability.
• Demonstrated experience in leading continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, productivity, Right First Time (RFT), and waste reduction.
• Significant experience with APQP, PPAP, FMEA, and 8D/DMAIC problem-solving methodologies to ensure high-quality production and efficient processes.
• Proficient in interpreting complex engineering drawings and GD&T.
• Experience with process validation, PFMEA, control plans, and Statistical Process Control (SPC).
• Lean Manufacturing and industrial engineering optimization, including time studies, line balancing. and value stream mapping.

This position is with a well-established company in the industrial/manufacturing sector, known for its commitment to quality and innovation. The organisation operates as a medium-sized enterprise, offering opportunities to work on complex projects and collaborate with skilled professionals.

• 60,000 per annum.
• Comprehensive benefits package to support your well-being.
• Opportunities for professional growth and career development.
• Collaborative work environment within the industrial/manufacturing sector.
• Convenient location in Redditch with potential for local commuting.

If you are ready to take the next step in your career as a Lead Manufacturing Engineer, we encourage you to apply and join a company that values expertise and innovation

Skills Required