Manufacturing Engineer

Progressive Recruitment; Luton; On-site; GBP 46,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A global engineering firm near Luton is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to lead continuous improvement initiatives and develop optimal manufacturing processes. The successful candidate will have a degree in Engineering and experience in volume manufacturing. This full-time role offers a salary up to £55,000 plus an annual bonus, along with several benefits including flexible working hours and career development opportunities.

Benefits

Annual bonus

Pension

Life Cover

25 days' holiday

Qualifications

• Degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering.
• Experience in volume manufacturing of engineered products.
• Hands-on Lean problem-solving with measurable outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Lead Continuous Improvement initiatives using Lean methods.
• Develop and standardise manufacturing processes.
• Implement robust process controls and error-proofing.

Skills

Lean problem-solving

Experience in volume manufacturing

Ability to interpret engineering drawings

Education

HND/Degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering

Tools

CNC machines

Six Sigma

Job description

Manufacturing Engineer

Location: Near Luton (Bedfordshire)

Salary: Up to £55,000 + Annual Bonus + Benefits

Contract: Permanent, Full-Time (On-site)

Company: Global Engineering & Manufacturing Leader

Why this Manufacturing Engineer role?

Join a world-class manufacturing environment and take ownership of continuous improvement across machining, welding & fabrication and assembly operations. You'll eliminate waste, reduce cycle time, and lift OEE using structured Lean and Six Sigma methods.

What you'll do as Manufacturing Engineer

• Lead Continuous Improvement initiatives using Kaizen, SMED, Six Sigma, 5S, 8D, and Value Stream Mapping
• Develop, optimise, and standardise manufacturing processes across machining (CNC, turning, milling), welding/fabrication, and mechanical assembly
• Implement robust process controls and error-proofing (Poka‑Yoke) with clear work standards and visual management
• Support NPI from concept through to volume launch and ramp‑up (DFM/DFA, build sequencing, SOPs)
• Specify, commission, and validate equipment, tooling, fixtures, and test systems
• Drive cost reduction via process optimisation and value engineering
• Prepare CapEx business cases (technical justification, ROI/NPV, payback, CBA)
• Contribute to capital investment planning and execution with cross-functional teams

What you'll bring as Manufacturing Engineer – Must‑haves

• HND/Degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering
• Experience in volume manufacturing of engineered products (e.g., industrial equipment, capital machinery, precision components, fabricated assemblies)
• Hands‑on Lean problem‑solving (RCA, 8D, DMAIC) with measurable outcomes
• Knowledge of automated assembly, tooling, fixtures, and test equipment
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and manufacturing specifications

Nice‑to‑haves

• Six Sigma Green/Black Belt
• Experience delivering CapEx projects and line/equipment installations
• Exposure to PFMEA, Control Plans, MSA, and SPC

About you

Adaptable, disciplined, and ambitious. A strategic thinker who thrives under pressure, communicates clearly across functions, and brings a proactive, "own the outcome" mentality.

Benefits

Up to £55,000 base + Annual Bonus

Pension, Life Cover, 25 days' holiday + additional purchase scheme

Flexible working hours (on-site)

Career development in a global organisation

Commutable from: Luton, Dunstable, Leighton Buzzard, Milton Keynes, Aylesbury, Hemel Hempstead, St Albans, Harpenden, Hitchin, Bedford, Biggleswade, Letchworth Garden City, Stevenage, Watford.

How to apply

Click Apply with your CV or reach out for a confidential chat.

We're an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered without regard to protected characteristics. You must have the right to work in the UK.