At a Glance
- Tasks: Plan and schedule the manufacture of model planes and parts for aerodynamic testing.
- Company: Join a leading engineering SME focused on innovative aerospace technologies.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience in a precision-focused environment with ongoing training.
- Other info: Collaborative team culture with opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Be part of exciting projects that shape the future of aerospace engineering.
- 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 are now recruiting a Production Planning Engineer to join our Design & Manufacture department, to schedule the manufacture of the model planes and various parts that are tested in the wind tunnel. The position requires a proactive, detail-driven person familiar with manufacture scheduling. The successful candidate will need to be on-site 5 days a week in Bedford.
This role bridges design, project delivery, and manufacturing, ensuring efficient transition from bid phase through to production.
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 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
- 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
- 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. If you think you have the right skill set for this position, 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 Planner in Bedford employer: Aircraft Research Association Limited
At Aircraft Research Association (ARA) Ltd, we pride ourselves on being a leading engineering SME that fosters a precision-focused and collaborative work environment. Located in Bedford, our team enjoys the benefits of ongoing training and development opportunities while working on technically challenging projects within a supportive culture. As a key player in our Design & Manufacture department, you will have the chance to make a significant impact in a modernising facility dedicated to innovation and excellence.
Contact Details:
Aircraft Research Association Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Planner in Bedford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with current employees at ARA. You never know who might give you a heads-up about an opportunity or even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching ARA's projects and values. Show them you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for their work and how your skills align with their needs in production planning.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a Production Planner, you'll need to convey complex information clearly. Mock interviews with friends can help you articulate your thoughts and showcase your organisational skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the ARA team and ready to take on the challenge.
We think you need these skills to ace Production Planner in Bedford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Production Planner role. Highlight your experience in project-led manufacturing and any relevant skills that match the job description. We want to see how you can contribute to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your understanding of production methods and route card creation. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As a confident communicator, make sure to reflect this in your application. Whether it's through your CV or cover letter, we want to see how you can effectively convey ideas and collaborate with stakeholders.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aircraft Research Association Limited
✨Know Your Production Planning Basics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of production methods and route card creation. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you understand the core responsibilities of the role and can hit the ground running.
✨Familiarise Yourself with D4M Principles
Since the role involves providing Design for Manufacture (D4M) input, it’s crucial to understand its principles. Prepare examples of how you've applied D4M in past projects, as this will demonstrate your ability to contribute effectively during the bid phase.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement
This position requires collaboration with various stakeholders. Think about times when you’ve successfully communicated with different teams or managed subcontractor relationships. Be ready to share these experiences to highlight your organisational skills.
✨Show Enthusiasm for Continuous Improvement
ARA is focused on modernisation and ongoing training. Express your eagerness to learn and adapt within a precision-focused environment. Discuss any relevant training or development you've pursued in the past to showcase your commitment to personal growth.
