CNC Manufacturing Project Engineer - Process & Tooling Lead

KNDS Defence UK Limited; Stockport; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Pension (4% employee, 7% employer)

Half-day Friday

Life assurance

Sick pay scheme

Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Additional Holidays & Long Service

Wellbeing initiatives

Cycle-to-work Scheme

Free on-site parking

On-site EV charging

Job summary

KNDS UK is seeking a Manufacturing Support Project Engineer to provide technical and project management support across CNC machining operations. You will drive process improvements, manage machine installations, and develop SOPs and training for production teams.

The role combines hands-on engineering with structured project delivery, collaborating with suppliers and internal teams to ensure quality, safety, and on-time delivery of engineering outputs.

Qualifications

• GCSE Maths and English at Grade 4 or higher.
• Strong understanding of CNC machining principles and manufacturing processes.
• Experience using milling machines.
• Ability to design fixtures and select or specify cutting tools.
• Experience improving machining tooling, methods, or processes.
• Experience creating SOPs, work instructions, and manufacturing documentation.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD.
• Proven experience managing engineering or manufacturing projects.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Microsoft Project.
• Experience with SAP or similar ERP systems.

Responsibilities

• Apply knowledge of CNC machining processes to support production and resolve technical issues.
• Design and develop fixtures, jigs, tooling, and work-holding solutions.
• Select cutting tools and optimize machining strategies.
• Improve tooling, machining methods, and process efficiency.
• Create, update, and maintain manufacturing instructions, documentation, and SOPs.
• Deliver training to operators on processes, procedures, documentation, and best practices.
• Manage engineering and manufacturing projects using structured project management methods.
• Lead and coordinate machine installations, commissioning activities, and contract management.
• Work with suppliers and contractors to ensure safe and effective delivery of tasks.
• Support Lean activities and continuous improvement across machining operations.

Skills

CNC machining principles

Milling machines

Fixtures design

Cutting tools selection

Process improvement

Education

GCSE Maths & English

Tools

AutoCAD

SolidWorks

Inventor

SAP

Microsoft Office

Microsoft Project

Job description

KNDS UK is seeking a Manufacturing Support Project Engineer to provide technical and project management support across CNC machining operations. You will drive process improvements, manage machine installations, and develop SOPs and training for production teams.

The role combines hands-on engineering with structured project delivery, collaborating with suppliers and internal teams to ensure quality, safety, and on-time delivery of engineering outputs.