Lead Manufacturing Engineer - Aerospace Manufacturing

Our client, a leading organization in the aerospace industry, is currently seeking a skilled and experienced Lead Manufacturing Engineer to join their leadership team at the South Molton aerospace manufacturing plant

In this role, you will play a critical part in helping the plant leadership achieve business and financial goals by developing and maintaining efficient manufacturing processes. You will also lead continuous improvement and cost-reduction initiatives across the organization. The role will involve executing the company's strategic plan while adhering to UK & European legislation, local regulations, and customer requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain robust, cost-efficient manufacturing processes and product structures using lean manufacturing practices.
• Lead root cause analysis and failure investigations to address manufacturing issues.
• Drive cost-out initiatives and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Implement lean manufacturing techniques to eliminate waste and deliver products that meet customer expectations.
• Use methods and practices to minimize process variation and improve product consistency.
• Apply Six Sigma strategies to help the team understand and reduce variation in production.
• Participate in concurrent engineering efforts and design reviews to reduce product development costs and extend product life.
• Conduct Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Value Engineering initiatives.
• Develop cost estimates using work breakdown structures.
• Support new product development projects and coordinate the manufacturing process from inception to delivery.
• Integrate new processes and methodologies to maintain competitive advantages.
• Recommend Capital Appropriation Requests (including payback and net present value analysis) for acquiring new equipment.
• Train team members as required in line with business expectations.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams to prepare action plans and plant, customer, and product status updates.
• Develop, implement, and audit complex process procedures and work instructions, both in-house and for suppliers, to resolve production issues.
• Ensure that Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are met by developing and monitoring robust plans.

Qualifications:

• Relevant Engineering Degree or equivalent qualification.

Skills & Experience:

• Solid understanding of engineering design, product reliability concepts, and analytical methods (e.g., fluid dynamics, thermal dynamics, electronic circuits).
• Deep knowledge of lean manufacturing techniques such as value stream mapping and one-piece flow.
• Expertise in Six Sigma tools and concepts, including regression analysis, design of experiments, and hypothesis testing.
• Thorough understanding of problem-solving methodologies, including root cause analysis, 8D, Process Failure Mode Effect Analysis (PFMEA), control charts, and Pareto charts.
• Familiarity with ProLaunch and proficiency in various software applications such as CAD, CAM, MS Office, and MiniTab.
• Knowledge of quality processes and industry standards (e.g., ISO9001, AS9100).
• Strong understanding of manufacturing principles and technical specifications, including metal cutting, tool design, injection molding, welding, and soldering.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive process improvements.
• Experience in Statistical Process Control (SPC) and Gage R&R.
• Proven experience managing teams, providing coaching, mentoring, and performance management.
• Excellent customer and supplier interface skills, including presentation and negotiation abilities.

What They Offer:

• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work on challenging projects in a dynamic and collaborative environment.
• Support for your career aspirations through internal promotion opportunities.
• Long-term investment in your professional growth through ongoing learning and development programs.
• Make a meaningful impact by contributing to safety, efficiency, and sustainability in their power management technologies.
• Prioritizing your health and well-being through a range of wellness programs and resources.