Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Prodrive; Banbury; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering company in Banbury is seeking a Senior Manufacturing Engineer to lead projects from concept to production. The ideal candidate will have a degree in Mechanical or related engineering and experience in the automotive sector. Responsibilities include developing manufacturing strategies, leading NPI activities, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive innovation and efficiency. This role offers an attractive salary, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Attractive salary structure

25 days holiday

Training opportunities

Car and pension salary sacrifice schemes

Paid time off for volunteering

Social events throughout the year

Exclusive company discounts

Life assurance

Qualifications

• Experience in manufacturing engineering, preferably in the automotive sector.
• Proven experience in setting up production assembly lines.
• Familiarity with DC tooling and advanced assembly techniques is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Define and implement manufacturing strategies for low‑volume programs.
• Develop and validate robust manufacturing processes and tooling.
• Lead NPI activities including process validation and control.

Skills

Project management

Problem-solving

Analytical skills

CAD software proficiency

Lean manufacturing principles

Manufacturing processes knowledge

Communication skills

Education

Degree in Mechanical, Automotive, Aerospace engineering

Tools

CATIA

Job description

At Prodrive we believe there’s no limit to what can be achieved when the brightest minds come together. Joining one focused and driven team, you will challenge boundaries in order to change the game for our customers. Our Advanced Technology business is where we combine our pace and agility with free-thinking to deliver complex engineering solutions and specialist manufacturing programmes to the automotive, aerospace, marine, and defence sectors, accelerating the net zero journey for our customers.

We are looking for a Senior Manufacturing Engineer to lead and support projects from initial concept through to production. In this role, you will leverage your extensive experience in manufacturing engineering, ideally within the automotive sector to define and implement robust manufacturing strategies. You will be responsible for developing and setting up production processes, tooling, and equipment, ensuring efficiency, quality, and the implementation of appropriate controls. This position requires a unique blend of hands‑on involvement and technical leadership, driving innovation while mentoring others and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and implement manufacturing strategies for low‑volume programs, ensuring alignment with customer requirements and business objectives.
• Develop and validate robust manufacturing processes, including tooling, jigs, fixtures, and assembly methods tailored for low‑volume production.
• Lead NPI activities, including process validation, manufacturing requirements, and PFMEA to ensure smooth product launches.
• Design and optimize efficient production layouts and specify equipment for assembly operations.
• Collaborate with quality teams to ensure compliance with customer‑specific requirements.
• Drive lean manufacturing initiatives and implement cost‑reduction strategies without compromising quality.
• Work closely with design, supply chain, and operations teams to resolve manufacturing challenges and improve build efficiency.
• Maintain accurate process documentation, including work instructions, and provide regular progress updates to stakeholders.
• Support existing production projects with running changes and ensure manufacturing sign‑off prior to implementation.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to Manufacturing Engineers and technicians.
• Conduct risk assessments, failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA), and process capability studies.
• Identify and implement opportunities for process automation and digitalization to improve efficiency.
• Act as a technical point of contact for customers during project reviews and audits.
• Work with suppliers to ensure tooling, components, and outsourced processes meet specifications and timelines.
• Prepare cost estimates for manufacturing processes and monitor project budgets.

Who Are We Looking For?

Our ideal candidate will have:

• A degree in Mechanical, Automotive, Aerospace, or a related engineering discipline.
• Experience in manufacturing engineering, preferably in the automotive sector.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, from component production to complex assembly.
• Proven experience in setting up production assembly lines, including tooling and assembly controls.
• Familiarity with DC tooling and advanced assembly techniques (desirable).
• Excellent project management, problem‑solving, and analytical skills.
• Proficiency in CAD software (CATIA desirable).
• Experience with PFMEA, control plans, and lean manufacturing principles.
• Ability to lead cross‑functional teams and drive manufacturing deliverables.
• Excellent communication skills, including supporting production meetings and presenting to senior leadership and customers.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 and automotive quality standards.

What can we offer you?

• An attractive salary which will grow in line with your ongoing development and impact
• 25 days holiday (which increases with long service) with an opportunity to purchase up to 15 extra days
• Training opportunities for continuing professional development
• Car and pension salary sacrifice schemes
• Paid time off for volunteering
• Consultations with our Fit 4 Life expert
• Social events throughout the year
• Exclusive company discounts
• Life assurance

We are an equal opportunity employer.