Lead Manufacturing Engineer

The role will focus on improving manufacturing processes, investigating technical and quality issues, supporting customer requirements and ensuring products consistently meet demanding aerospace and engineering specifications.\n\nYou will be a key technical resource within the business, helping to improve process capability, product conformity and operational performance through data-driven decision making and engineering expertise. This position would suit an experienced engineer from a manufacturing environment with a strong background in quality improvement, process engineering, metallurgical processes or operational excellence.\n\nKey Responsibilities\n\nAct as the technical interface between Production, Quality and Metallurgy teams across the manufacturing operation\nLead investigations into manufacturing non-conformances, quality concerns and process deviations\nConduct root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions to improve performance\nDrive continuous improvement initiatives focused on product quality, process capability and operational efficiency\nSupport metallurgical investigations and process validation activities\nAnalyse manufacturing and quality data to identify trends, risks and opportunities for improvement\nDevelop and optimise manufacturing processes, procedures and controls\nSupport customer quality requirements, audits and technical investigations\nWork closely with Quality Engineers and Metallurgists to ensure compliance with customer, aerospace and regulatory standards\nSupport process risk assessments, FMEA activities and control plan development\nParticipate in internal, customer and third-party audits\nLead and support projects aimed at reducing waste, improving yield and enhancing manufacturing performance\nProvide technical support and guidance to production teams on process control and best practice\nDevelop manufacturing documentation, technical procedures and process instructions\nSupport new product introduction and manufacturing readiness activities\nCarry out any other reasonable duties as requested by managementQualifications and Experience\n\nDegree qualified in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Metallurgy, Materials Engineering or a related discipline\nPrevious experience within aerospace, forging, metals, steel, special alloys, machining or heavy manufacturing environments\nStrong understanding of manufacturing processes and quality systems\nExperience working closely with Quality and Metallurgy functions\nProven track record of investigating manufacturing issues and implementing sustainable process improvements\nStrong root cause analysis and problem-solving skills\nExperience of process capability improvement and data analysis\nKnowledge of quality tools such as 8D, FMEA, SPC, APQP or similar methodologies\nUnderstanding of metallurgical processes, heat treatment or materials performance would be highly advantageous\nExperience supporting customer audits and technical investigationsSalary Information\n\nStarting salary between £45,000 - £55,000, depending on experience.\nPermanent position with long-term career opportunities\nTraining and professional development support\nOpportunity to work within an advanced aerospace manufacturing environment\n33 days holiday\nPension scheme with employer contribution\nBonus scheme and Westfield cash plan\nOn-site parking availableThis position is being recruited exclusively by W Talent Recruitment, who will be conducting the first-stage pre-screen interview. Any questions, please contact Glyn Dobb at W Talent directly