Lead Manufacturing Engineer

Cramlington Precision Forge Ltd; Cramlington; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturing company in Cramlington is seeking an experienced Engineer to oversee engineering activities within the facility. This role requires strong leadership to manage and mentor engineers, and drive efficiency and innovation in production processes. The ideal candidate has over 5 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, knowledge of Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, and familiarity with CAD software. Engagement in continuous improvement initiatives is essential.

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 optimization.

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.
• Ensure compliance with ISO standards and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Excellent communication skills

Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities

Ability to manage projects and report on their progress

Knowledge of safety standards and regulatory compliance

Education

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

Tools

CAD software

Job description

The Engineer oversees all engineering activities within the manufacturing facility, ensuring efficient production processes, compliance with safety and quality standards, introduction of new product and continuous improvement initiatives. This role combines technical expertise with leadership to optimize 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 to customer.
• Monitor progress and report to senior management.
• Collaborate with Quality Assurance to maintain product standards.
• Implement Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to minimize waste and defects.
• Ensure adherence to health and safety regulations.
• Work closely with Production, Procurement, and Supply Chain teams.
• Work with production to scale prototype volumes to full production.
• Liaise with vendors and contractors for equipment and services.
• Reporting of monthly KPIs to senior management on items such as yield, MTTR, MTBF and die life.
• Support business development in producing accurate job weights, costs and timings to allow timely quotation to the customer.
• 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 optimization.
• Familiarity with CAD software. Applicants must be Proficient in Cad.

Skills

• Excellent communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage projects and report on their progress.
• Knowledge of safety standards and regulatory compliance.

Bevel gear manufacture and forging design would be beneficial.

Preferred Qualifications

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