Manufacturing Engineer

ZipRecruiter; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to enhance operational efficiency through process analysis and improvement. This role involves utilizing Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to identify bottlenecks and implement solutions that drive continuous improvement. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, analyze data to support decision-making, and develop standard operating procedures to ensure quality and consistency. If you are passionate about optimizing processes and leading initiatives in a dynamic manufacturing environment, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or equivalent experience required.
• Relevant certifications in Lean or Six Sigma are advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Identify and implement process improvements using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize manufacturing processes.

Skills

Process Analysis

Lean Methodologies

Six Sigma

Data Analysis

Communication Skills

Problem Solving

Cost Control

Team Management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Lean/Lean Sigma Black Belt

Tools

Microsoft 365

Job description

Job Description

Main Duties & Responsibilities of the Manufacturing Engineer:

1. Process Analysis and Improvement: Identify areas for improvement in manufacturing processes. Analyze existing processes to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas for optimization. Utilize Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to drive continuous improvement. Champion and lead CI projects within operations.
2. Data Analysis and Reporting: Collect and analyze data to identify trends and areas for improvement. Prepare reports and presentations to communicate findings and recommendations to management. Monitor the performance of implemented improvements and track key metrics.
3. Collaboration and Communication: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including production, engineering, and quality assurance. Communicate effectively with all stakeholders to ensure buy-in and support for process improvements. Train and mentor team members on CI methodologies and best practices.
4. Process Optimization and Standardization: Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency and efficiency. Optimize processes to reduce waste, improve quality, and reduce costs. Design and implement process simulations to test and validate proposed improvements.
5. Process Equipment Capability and Investment: Review process equipment capability to meet quality specifications and ensure robust process controls are implemented. Review NPD and EPD projects to ensure capital investments align with process capabilities.
6. Troubleshooting and Problem Solving: Identify and address root causes of production problems. Develop and implement corrective and preventative actions.
7. Additional Responsibilities: Oversee production tasks, drive process improvements, and ensure successful handover of new equipment and facilities. Act as a quality events investigator for assigned projects. Implement and lead the adoption of new manufacturing technologies, including digital solutions.
8. Performance Monitoring: Track key performance indicators (KPIs) such as production output, scrap rates, PPM compliance, breakdowns, and asset spend.
9. Quality Improvement: Ensure all processes are documented with SOPs, risk assessments, and single point lessons to maintain high product quality standards.
10. Problem Solving: Address production issues related to equipment maintenance and quality concerns, proposing effective solutions to maintain smooth production flow.
11. Cost Control: Analyze production costs and identify opportunities for cost reduction.
12. Reporting: Generate continuous improvement reports and update senior management on project progress.
13. Communication & Collaboration: Regularly collaborate with sales, quality control, maintenance, and warehouse teams to ensure seamless supply chain operations.
14. Health & Safety: Uphold health and safety principles and manufacturing golden rules to ensure safety for all team members and visitors.
15. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion: Embody honesty, integrity, and mutual respect, supporting a diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture.

Challenges:

• Understanding critical process parameters to meet product quality standards and implementing effective in-process measurement and control.
• Ensuring equipment processing capabilities meet R&D methodologies.
• Aligning the 3-year CAPEX plan with business S&OP forecasts.

Knowledge & Skills:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Relevant certifications such as Lean/Lean Sigma Black Belt are advantageous.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 suite.
• Strong attention to detail and process control mindset.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and team management skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and motivate teams.
• Experience in chemicals, pharmaceuticals, or FMCG sectors is preferred.