Manufacturing Engineer

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

Job summary

A global engineering firm is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to optimize processes and lead continuous improvement initiatives. The role requires a degree in Mechanical or Industrial Engineering, with experience in volume manufacturing. Key responsibilities include developing manufacturing processes, implementing Lean methodologies, and preparing CapEx business cases. This full-time position offers a competitive salary of up to £55,000, annual bonus, and additional benefits, including flexible hours and career development opportunities.

Benefits

Annual bonus

Pension

Flexible working hours

Career development

Qualifications

• Experience in volume manufacturing of engineered products.
• Hands-on Lean problem-solving with measurable outcomes.
• Knowledge of tooling, fixtures, and test equipment.

Responsibilities

• Lead Continuous Improvement initiatives using various Lean methods.
• Develop and standardise manufacturing processes across machining and assembly.
• Prepare CapEx business cases with technical justification.

Skills

Lean problem-solving

Knowledge of automated assembly

Ability to interpret engineering drawings

Education

HND/Degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering

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 Manufacfuring 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.

Keywords: Manufacturing Engineer, Continuous Improvement, Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, SMED, Six Sigma, Value Stream Mapping, Process Improvement, Machining, CNC, Welding, Fabrication, Assembly, CapEx Projects, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Process Optimisation, Error Proofing, Tooling, Fixtures, Engineering Drawings, Green Belt, Black Belt, Luton, Bedfordshire.

To find out more about Progressive please visit www.progressiverecruitment.com

Progressive Recruitment, a trading division of SThree Partnership LLP is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy | Registered office | 8 Bishopsgate, London, EC2N 4BQ, United Kingdom | Partnership Number | OC387148 England and Wales