Andy File Associates Limited is working as a Recruitment Agency on behalf of our client with regards this permanent position.
Salary: £42,000 - £45,000 Location: Hull Job Type: Permanent, 39 hours a week with flexible working between the hours of 6.30am – 5pm, 35 days holiday including stats
The Opportunity
Are you a Manufacturing Engineer who enjoys improving processes, solving problems and making things work better?
Our client is looking for a Manufacturing Engineer to join their team and play a key role in driving continuous improvement, process optimisation and manufacturing efficiency across the business.
This is a hands‑on engineering role where you will have the opportunity to identify opportunities for improvement, investigate manufacturing issues, develop practical solutions and work closely with production teams to implement change.
The role would suit someone who enjoys being on the shop floor, getting involved in the detail and seeing the results of their improvements.
You don't need to have experience in our client's specific industry. We would be particularly interested in Manufacturing Engineers from sectors such as automotive, engineering, aerospace, FMCG, plastics, assembly or other structured manufacturing environments.
The Role
As Manufacturing Engineer, you will work closely with Production, Quality, Design and Supply Chain to improve manufacturing processes and support the business in achieving improvements in:
- Efficiency and productivity
- Quality and right-first-time performance
- Manufacturing costs
- Waste reduction
- Process reliability
- Health & safety
- Standardisation
- Production capacity
You will be encouraged to challenge existing processes, identify opportunities and take ownership of improvement projects from initial investigation through to implementation.
Key Responsibilities
- Identify and implement continuous improvement opportunities across manufacturing operations.
- Analyse existing processes and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, quality, cost and productivity.
- Provide hands‑on engineering support to production teams, resolving manufacturing and process issues.
- Investigate problems using root cause analysis and implement effective corrective and preventative actions.
- Develop and improve manufacturing processes, work instructions and standard operating procedures.
- Support Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Review production methods, workflows and layouts to identify opportunities for improvement.
- Support line balancing, capacity improvements and process optimisation.
- Develop and introduce tooling, fixtures, jigs and assembly aids where required.
- Work with Design Engineering to ensure products and processes are suitable for efficient manufacture and assembly.
- Support New Product Introduction (NPI), prototype builds, pilot builds and production launches.
- Identify opportunities to reduce waste, improve productivity and minimise manufacturing costs.Support quality improvement activities, including investigation of defects, non‑conformances and warranty issues.
- Participate in risk assessments, including FMEA, and implement actions arising from them.
- Develop and maintain manufacturing documentation and standardised processes.
- Work collaboratively with Production, Quality, Design, Engineering and Supply Chain teams.
- Support the introduction of new processes, equipment and manufacturing methods.
- Train and support production colleagues when new or improved processes are introduced.
- Liaise with suppliers where necessary to support improvements in manufacturing processes or equipment.
- Promote safe working practices and identify opportunities to improve workplace safety.
What We’re Looking For
We are looking for a practical, commercially aware and improvement-focused Manufacturing Engineer who enjoys making a difference.
You may currently be working as a:
- Manufacturing Engineer
- Production Engineer
- Process Engineer
- Industrial Engineer
- Continuous Improvement Engineer
- Manufacturing Improvement Engineer
- NPI Engineer
Experience in automotive manufacturing would be welcomed, particularly where you have worked within a structured, high-volume or assembly-based manufacturing environment, but it is not essential.
We would also consider candidates from a range of manufacturing sectors who can demonstrate strong process improvement and problem-solving experience.
You’ll ideally have:
- HNC/HND, degree or equivalent experience in Manufacturing, Mechanical, Industrial Engineering or a related discipline.
- Previous experience within a manufacturing or production engineering environment.
- A strong understanding of manufacturing processes and assembly operations.
- Experience of continuous improvement and process optimisation.
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and improvement methodologies.
- Experience using problem-solving and root cause analysis techniques.
- The ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical documentation.
- Experience developing processes, work instructions or standard operating procedures.
- A practical, hands‑on approach to engineering and problem solving.
- Strong analytical and decision‑making skills.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to influence people across different departments.
- The confidence to challenge existing processes and suggest better ways of working.
The Person
We’re looking for someone who doesn’t simply identify problems but wants to find the solution and make the improvement happen.
You’ll be:
- Improvement-focused – always looking for a better, safer or more efficient way of doing things.
- Hands‑on – comfortable spending time on the shop floor and working directly with production teams.
- Analytical – able to use data and evidence to understand problems and measure improvements.
- Practical – capable of turning engineering ideas into workable solutions.
- Influential – able…
- Proactive – someone who sees opportunities rather than waiting to be asked.
- Commercially aware – understanding the impact of manufacturing decisions on cost, quality and delivery.
- Collaborative – comfortable working across Production, Engineering, Quality, Design and Supply Chain.
- Organised – able to manage multiple improvement projects and priorities.
Why This Role?
This is an opportunity to join a business where your engineering knowledge can have a visible impact on how products are manufactured.
Rather than simply maintaining existing processes, you'll have the opportunity to challenge, improve and develop them, working alongside production and engineering teams to deliver measurable improvements.
If you enjoy continuous improvement, solving manufacturing problems and seeing an idea move from concept to implementation, this could be an excellent opportunity.
Automotive manufacturing experience is welcomed but not essential – our client is interested in engineers who can demonstrate the right approach, experience and passion for improving manufacturing performance
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Manufacturing Engineer – Continuous Improvement employer: Andy File Associates Ltd
Andy File Associates Limited is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work environment in Sheffield for those looking to grow their careers in trade compliance and international logistics. With a focus on employee development, competitive pay, and the potential for permanent placement after a temporary contract, this role provides a meaningful opportunity to contribute to global supply chain operations while honing your skills in customs compliance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Engineer – Continuous Improvement
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Andy File Associates Ltd, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Andy File Associates Ltd specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Andy File Associates Ltd
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Andy File Associates Ltd, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Andy File Associates Ltd value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.