Production Process / Planning Engineer

STARK; Swindon; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A next-generation defense technology company in Swindon is seeking a highly motivated Production Engineer to oversee the manufacturing of UAV systems. The ideal candidate will have a degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering and experience in production processes. Responsibilities include developing production plans, ensuring quality targets, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. This full-time role requires strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively across teams.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience in a manufacturing or production process engineering role.
• Familiarity with aerospace or defense industries.
• Strong technical understanding and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage production plans aligned with project timelines.
• Ensure targets on quality and delivery are met.
• Analyze production capacity and allocate resources efficiently.

Skills

Manufacturing processes

Lean Manufacturing

Problem-solving

CAD design

3D printing

Education

Degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Production Engineering

Tools

ERP/MRP systems

Office programs

Job description

Permanent employee, Full-time

Swindon

About Us

STARK is a next-generation defence technology company reshaping how autonomous systems are deployed in operational environments. We design, develop and manufacture high-performance unmanned systems that are software-defined, scalable at volume, and built for real-world use — delivering a tactical edge in complex, high-demand scenarios.

Our mission is clear: to provide NATO allies and partners with deployable, high-performance autonomous systems that deliver impact today — not promises for tomorrow. In a world of escalating threats, we’re strengthening Europe’s defence and deterrence capabilities now.

Your mission

We are seeking a highly motivated Production Engineer to join our growing team. This is a hands-on role at the core of our advanced manufacturing function, where you’ll play a key part in bringing cutting-edge UAV systems from concept to scalable production. You’ll collaborate across design, R&D, quality and supply chain teams to deliver robust, repeatable manufacturing processes that meet demanding performance and quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed daily, weekly, and monthly production plans aligned with project timelines, contract milestones, and delivery deadlines.
• Plan and monitor production workflows to ensure targets on quality, cost and delivery are met
• (fabrication, assembly, test, etc)
• Generate, release, and manage work orders in line with Material Requirements Planning (MRP) and Engineering Change Notices (ECNs)
• Ensure accurate routing and process instructions are included in work orders
• Technical improvement projects, e.g. in the areas of workplace design, digitalisation etc
• Analyse production capacity and allocate resources (manpower, machines, tools) efficiently to meet build demands.
• Provide day-to-day technical support on the shop floor, solving issues as they arise
• Create and maintain technical documentation, work instructions and build records
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives (CIP) and conduct root cause analyses
• Evaluate and implement new manufacturing technologies, tools and equipment

Qualifications

• A degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Production Engineering or a related discipline
• Experience in a manufacturing or production process engineering role, ideally in aerospace, defence, UAV, automotive industries
• Familiarity with manufacturing techniques for composites, lightweight structures, electronic assemblies or mechanical systems
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma or similar process improvement methodologies
• Knowledge of 3D printing and the basics of CAD design is desirable and ERP/MRP systems is advantageous
• A hands-on, solution-oriented mindset with strong technical understanding, and strong problem-solving skills
• Confident use of Office programmes (PowerPoint & Excel) is required, ideally initial experience with digital tools in a production environment (e.g. MES and PLM systems)
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Comfortable with travelling to Munich for initial training
• Must be eligible for UK Security Clearance

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Legal Disclaimer

We are an equal-opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. Due to the nature of our work in the defense sector, candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain the appropriate security clearance required for the position.

We are looking forward to hearing from you!

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