Production Engineer

ZipRecruiter; Bristol; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturer in the United Kingdom is seeking a motivated Production Engineer to support manufacturing operations and improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate will have experience in process optimization, CAD tools, and a background in mechanical or production engineering. Responsibilities include enhancing production processes, supporting new product introductions, and conducting ergonomic assessments.

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent experience in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Production Engineering.
• Skilled in 3D CAD (ideally Creo).
• Familiarity with PLM systems (e.g., Windchill).
• Solid understanding of manufacturing processes and DFM principles.
• Proven success in process improvements and operational cost savings.

Responsibilities

• Enhance and develop production processes, work instructions, and tooling setups.
• Drive productivity and quality improvements through long-term process initiatives.
• Support the introduction of new products into production.
• Conduct ergonomic assessments of workstations and implement improvements.
• Lead structured investigations into production issues and drive corrective actions.

Skills

Process optimization

Cross-functional collaboration

3D CAD (Creo)

Lean Manufacturing principles

Communication skills

Education

Degree in Mechanical or Production Engineering

Tools

PLM systems (Windchill)

ERP systems (SAP, Microsoft Dynamics)

Job description

Overview

Our client, a leading manufacturer in their sector, is seeking a hands-on and motivated Production Engineer to support ongoing manufacturing operations and improvement initiatives. This is a great opportunity to join a forward-thinking production environment, contributing to the development of efficient, ergonomic, and scalable manufacturing systems.

The ideal candidate will be experienced in process optimization, product introduction, and cross-functional collaboration. A background in mechanical or production engineering, along with CAD and PLM tools, is essential.

Key Responsibilities

Process Improvement & Production Support

• Enhance and develop production processes, work instructions, and tooling setups.
• Drive productivity and quality improvements through long-term process initiatives.
• Support the introduction of new products into production, ensuring readiness and smooth handover.
• Identify and implement efficiency and cost-saving opportunities.

CAD & Product Data Management

• Maintain and update 3D models and technical drawings using CAD tools (specifically in Creo).
• Manage product and design data using PLM systems (preferably Windchill), ensuring version control and traceability.
• Collaborate with design and engineering teams to ensure manufacturability and assembly effectiveness.

Coaching & Cross-Team Collaboration

• Provide training and support to operators and technicians on new procedures and tools.
• Act as a bridge between engineering, quality, and production to resolve manufacturing issues.
• Promote a continuous improvement mindset and share best practices across teams.

Ergonomics & Safety

• Conduct ergonomic assessments of workstations and implement improvements.
• Design and introduce fixtures and tools that support safe and efficient assembly.
• Recommend workflow adjustments to minimize physical strain and improve layout.

Lean & Cost Efficiency

• Apply Lean Manufacturing principles (e.g., 5S, Kaizen, SMED) to optimize workflows.
• Analyze material usage, labour, and machine performance to support cost-reduction strategies.
• Use data to drive continuous improvement and monitor the impact of changes.

Problem Solving & Quality Improvement

• Lead structured investigations into production issues and drive corrective actions.
• Work with suppliers and internal teams to resolve quality or design challenges.

Requirements

Essential:

• Degree or equivalent experience in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Production Engineering.
• Skilled in 3D CAD (ideally Creo).
• Familiarity with PLM systems (e.g., Windchill).
• Solid understanding of manufacturing processes and DFM principles.
• Proven success in process improvements and operational cost savings.
• Strong communication and coaching skills.
• Knowledge of workplace ergonomics and safety best practices.

Desirable:

• Exposure to Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 or similar quality standards.
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Microsoft Dynamics).
• Background in consumer products or appliance manufacturing.