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- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to bridge design and manufacturing in aerospace engineering.
- Company: Leading engineering SME specialising in aerodynamic testing and model design.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, ongoing training, and work on exciting projects.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with opportunities for career growth and modernisation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in aerospace with innovative technologies and collaborative culture.
- Qualifications: ONC/HNC or equivalent in Mechanical/Manufacturing Engineering and project experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Aircraft Research Association (ARA) Ltd is a unique engineering SME. We are a leading specialist in model design and manufacture, aerodynamic testing and numerous associated technologies based around our transonic wind tunnel at our site in Bedford. We have a strong, rich heritage, with unique research capabilities involving many bespoke processes including CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics). We deliver innovative solutions and services to our global customer base through our high skilled engineering and aerodynamic professionals.
About the Role
We are seeking a proactive and detail-driven Production Engineer to join our Design & Manufacture function. This role bridges design, project delivery, and manufacturing, ensuring efficient transition from bid phase through to production. You will be working in a small team and collaborating with Machine Shop and Fitting department, preparing metal models for testing in the wind tunnel. You will take ownership of production planning, D4M input, subcontract management, and manufacturing readiness to ensure projects are delivered on time, to cost, and to quality requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Own and populate the Design & Manufacture (D&M) pricing document during bid phase, ensuring full stakeholder input
- Contribute to D&M project schedules, including identification of subcontract requirements
- Provide formal Design for Manufacture (D4M) input and secure design sign-off
- Determine material requirements, check stock, and order billets
- Create and control route cards, defining method of manufacture, timings, and inspection requirements
- Ensure adherence to route cards within the Model Manufacture Centre (MMC)
- Manage subcontract RFQs, quotation reviews, and delivery performance
- Participate in meetings and monitor part progress
- Support Project Launch, PDR, CDR, MRR, and Lessons Learned reviews
About You
- ONC / HNC or equivalent experience in Mechanical / Manufacturing / Production Engineering
- Experience in a project-led manufacturing environment
- Strong understanding of production methods and route card creation
- Confident communicator with strong organisational skills
What We Offer
- A precision-focused, specialist manufacturing environment, with extensive plans for modernisation in the fabrication of the building, tools and equipment
- Opportunities to work on technically challenging and rewarding projects
- Ongoing training and development
- Supportive and collaborative team culture
This is an opportunity to play a visible, accountable role within a fully integrated Design & Manufacture function. Apply today by clicking the link.
Please note that we operate a preferred supplier list for recruitment agencies. We are not seeking additional agency support for this vacancy and kindly ask that speculative approaches are not made.
The successful candidate must satisfy security clearance requirements – including the last 5 years continual UK residency, British passport holder only.
Aircraft Research Association Ltd is proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer. We recognise the value in an inclusive and diverse workforce and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified people.
Production Engineer in Bedford employer: Aircraft Research Association Limited
Contact Detail:
Aircraft Research Association Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Engineer in Bedford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at ARA or similar companies on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of production methods and route card creation. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your organisational skills! Bring examples of how you've managed projects or improved processes in previous roles. This will demonstrate your fit for the Production Engineer role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people at ARA. Plus, it shows you're serious about the opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Production Engineer in Bedford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Production Engineer role. Highlight your experience in project-led manufacturing and any relevant skills in production methods and route card creation. We want to see how you fit into our unique engineering environment!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how your background aligns with our needs at ARA. Be sure to mention your proactive approach and detail-driven mindset, as these are key for us.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When filling out your application, don’t forget to showcase any hands-on experience you have in mechanical or manufacturing engineering. We love seeing real-world examples of how you've contributed to projects and managed production planning.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team at ARA!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aircraft Research Association Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of production engineering, especially in a project-led manufacturing environment. Familiarise yourself with the specific processes mentioned in the job description, like D4M input and route card creation, so you can speak confidently about them.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since you'll be working closely with the Machine Shop and Fitting department, highlight your collaborative skills during the interview. Share examples of how you've successfully worked in teams before, and how you can contribute to a supportive and collaborative culture.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions related to production methods and material requirements. Prepare by reviewing common challenges in production engineering and think of solutions you've implemented in the past. This will show your problem-solving skills and readiness for the role.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the projects you might be working on or the modernisation plans for the fabrication tools and equipment. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the company’s future.