Senior Manufacturing Engineer

TXM Recruit; Houghton Conquest; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading defence and engineering organisation is looking for a Senior Manufacturing Engineer in Bedfordshire. This role involves improving manufacturing efficiency and supporting complex engineering projects. The ideal candidate will have strong experience in 5-axis CNC machining, proficiency in CAD software, and the ability to lead process improvements. A collaborative mindset and eligibility for SC Clearance are essential. This position offers a flexible working pattern on a 4-day week basis.

Qualifications

• Strong experience with 5-axis CNC machining and HyperMill CAM.
• Proficiency with CAD software for 2D technical drawings.
• Solid understanding of MRP/ERP systems (SAP or equivalent).
• Ability to lead process changes for efficiency improvements.
• Collaborative mindset with continuous improvement focus.
• Eligibility for SC Clearance.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimise manufacturing processes for CNC components.
• Define operation sequences and production layouts.
• Produce Basis of Estimates for engineering activities.
• Identify tooling requirements for manufacturing processes.
• Generate Technical Requirement Specifications.
• Create Manufacturing BOMs for production.
• Participate in Mission Directed Work Team meetings.
• Contribute to technology road mapping for improvements.
• Support capital equipment planning and acceptance.
• Provide engineering support for production.

Skills

5-axis CNC machining

HyperMill CAM system

CAD software

MRP/ERP systems

Continuous improvement mindset

Cultural change leadership

Job description

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Pay Rate: £40 - £50 (Umbrella)
Location: Bedfordshire
Contract: 7x months (Inside IR35)
Hours: 37.5 per week
Working Pattern: 4-day week (Mon-Thurs) with flexible working
Positions Available: 2

Overview

A leading defence and engineering organisation is seeking experienced Senior Manufacturing Engineers to support a range of high-profile programmes. The role spans the full product lifecycle from prototype build and development through to full-rate production and end-of-life support. You will play a key role in improving manufacturing efficiency, reducing cost, and enhancing product quality. As a recognised subject matter expert, you will provide technical leadership, problem solving, and manufacturing engineering support across multiple projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimise manufacturing processes for medium and large CNC-machined components.
• Define sequences of operation, procedures, and production layouts, ensuring efficient flow and alignment with lean manufacturing principles.
• Produce Basis of Estimates (BoEs) for engineering and shop‑floor activities across multiple disciplines.
• Identify tooling and fixturing requirements for new and existing processes.
• Generate Technical Requirement Specifications and detailed process instructions.
• Create Manufacturing BOMs and routings to support efficient, repeatable build processes.
• Actively participate in Level 1 & 2 Mission Directed Work Team (MDWT) meetings.
• Contribute to technology road mapping, identifying opportunities for process improvement and future capability development.
• Support capital equipment planning from requirements definition through to acceptance.
• Provide engineering support to full-rate production across various product lines.

Required Skills, Qualifications & Experience

• Strong experience with 5-axis CNC machining and the HyperMill CAM system.
• Proficiency with CAD software for generating accurate 2D technical drawings.
• Solid understanding of MRP/ERP systems, including experience managing BOMs and routings (SAP or equivalent).
• Demonstrable ability to lead cultural and process change to improve efficiency and quality.
• A collaborative and continuous‑improvement mindset.
• Able to obtain SC Clearance (BPSS required to start).