Lead Manufacturing Engineer

Adecco; Blyth; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency in Blyth is seeking a Lead Manufacturing Engineer to oversee all engineering activities within the manufacturing facility. The role requires strong leadership to manage teams, ensure compliance with quality standards, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, over 5 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, and knowledge of Lean and Six Sigma methodologies. This is a permanent full-time position with competitive hours.

Benefits

Equal Opportunities Employer

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and process optimisation.

Responsibilities

• Manage and mentor a team of manufacturing engineers and technicians.
• Design, implement, and improve manufacturing processes to increase efficiency.
• Lead capital projects, including new product introductions.
• Implement Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to minimise waste.

Skills

Excellent communication skills

Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities

Ability to manage projects and report on progress

Knowledge of safety standards and regulatory compliance

Experience with bevel gear manufacture and forging design

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering

Advanced degree or MBA

Tools

CAD software

Job description

Lead Manufacturing Engineer

The Lead Manufacturing Engineer oversees all engineering activities within the manufacturing facility, ensuring efficient production processes, compliance with safety and quality standards, introduction of new products, and continuous improvement initiatives. This role combines technical expertise with leadership to optimise operations and drive innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and mentor a team of manufacturing engineers and technicians.
• Conduct performance evaluations and determine training requirements.
• Promote a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Design, implement, and improve manufacturing processes to increase efficiency and reduce costs.
• Oversee equipment selection, installation, and maintenance planning.
• Ensure compliance with ISO standards and regulatory requirements.
• Lead capital projects, including new product introductions.
• Develop project timelines and communicate with customers.
• Monitor progress and report to senior management.
• Collaborate with Quality Assurance to maintain product standards.
• Implement Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to minimise waste and defects.
• Ensure adherence to health and safety regulations.
• Work closely with Production, Procurement, and Supply Chain teams.
• Scale prototype volumes to full production.
• Liaise with vendors and contractors for equipment and services.
• Report monthly KPIs (e.g., yield, MTTR, MTBF, die life) to senior management.
• Support business development with accurate job weights, costs, and timings for quotations.
• Maintain responsibility for CAD system, model, and drawing management.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering (preferred but not essential depending on experience).
• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and process optimisation.
• Proficiency in CAD software.

Skills

• Excellent communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to manage projects and report on progress.
• Knowledge of safety standards and regulatory compliance.
• Experience with bevel gear manufacture and forging design is beneficial.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree or MBA.
• Professional certifications (CEng, PMP, Six Sigma Black Belt).

Job Information

• Location: Blyth, Northumberland
• Closes: Jan 11th 2026
• Sector: Manufacturing & Surveying
• Contract: Permanent
• Hours: Full Time

Adecco Group UK & Ireland is an Equal Opportunities Employer.