Process Technologist (Acid Etch - Superalloys)

Reed Specialist Recruitment; Sheffield; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Reed Engineering & Manufacturing is partnering with a specialist metals manufacturer to recruit a Process Technologist. This hands-on role focuses on process development, optimisation, quality management, and supporting accreditation requirements.

You will lead trials for pickling, acid etch and NDT processes, maintain documentation, and collaborate with production, R&D and customers to drive continuous improvement and growth.

Qualifications

• Degree in Engineering, Materials Science, Metallurgy, Manufacturing or Chemistry, or equivalent experience.
• Experience in process development or manufacturing engineering in regulated environments.
• Knowledge of ISO9001/AS9100 and Nadcap would be advantageous.
• Experience with NDT methods is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and optimisation of manufacturing and inspection processes including pickling and acid etch.
• Design, coordinate, and evaluate process trials, document outcomes, and drive continuous improvement.
• Develop and maintain a structured trials database to capture process development activities.
• Collaborate with production operators to understand process variables and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Support development of new products and processes aligned with commercial objectives and market demand.
• Assess market trends, research findings and sales data to evaluate product viability.

Skills

Process optimisation

NDT knowledge

Quality management

Industrial chemistry

Problem solving

Education

Degree in Engineering/Materials Science

Job description

Reed Engineering & Manufacturing are proud to be partnering with a specialist metals manufacturing business to recruit a Process Technologist.

This is a unique opportunity to join a growing organisation operating within highly regulated and rapidly expanding sectors including Nuclear, Aerospace and Defence etc

This hands-on role combines technical process development, oversight, quality management, and strategic business support. You will play a key role in developing new manufacturing capabilities, improving existing processes, supporting accreditation requirements, and helping drive the future growth of the business.

The Role

As Process Technologist, you will take ownership of process optimisation and product development activities whilst ensuring compliance with industry standards and customer requirements, working the process and improvements within team who work with acid etch, pickling and also NDT

Working closely with production teams, senior management, customers, and research institutions, you will be instrumental in identifying improvement opportunities, introducing new technologies, and enhancing operational performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and optimisation of manufacturing and inspection processes, including pickling, acid etch and NDT activities.
• Design, coordinate, and evaluate process trials, documenting outcomes and driving continuous improvement initiatives.
• Develop and maintain a structured trials database to capture process development activities and support future projects.
• Work closely with production operators to understand process variables and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Support the development of new products and processes aligned with commercial objectives and market demand.
• Assess market trends, research findings, and sales data to evaluate product viability and competitiveness.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to develop value-added opportunities across the wider business.
• Maintain and improve management systems in line with ISO9001, AS9100, Nadcap, and other industry requirements.
• Provide day-to-day leadership and support to the NDT Technician while helping grow the company's inspection capabilities and accreditations.
• Build strong relationships with customers, suppliers, universities, and research centres.
• Support strategic projects aimed at expanding capability within emerging and growth markets.

What We're Looking For

• Ideally Degree qualified in Engineering, Materials Science, Metallurgy, Manufacturing, Chemistry, or a related discipline, or equivalent industry experience will also be considered
• Knowledge of acid etch, pickling would be advantageous within the metals industry
• Experience in process development, manufacturing engineering, metallurgy,chemistry, quality engineering, or technical operations.
• Working knowledge of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) methods would be advantageous although not essential
• Experience working within highly regulated manufacturing environments.
• Exposure to ISO9001 and/or AS9100 quality management systems.
• Experience supporting Nadcap-accredited processes would be highly advantageous.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritise effectively