At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire the Production Engineering & Test team to drive innovation and efficiency.
- Company: Join Spectrum Control, a leader in engineering excellence and innovative solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, 33 days holiday, health cash plan, and more.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative culture focused on continuous improvement and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in aerospace engineering while developing your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s or Master’s in Engineering with 2-5 years of relevant experience.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 44000 £ per year.
- Job
- Title: Production Engineering & Test
- Manager
- Yarmouth
- Department: Engineering
- Reports
To: Head of Manufacturing, Production Engineering Job Purpose To lead, develop, and inspire the Production Engineering & Test function, delivering the Engineering strategy through strong technical leadership, disciplined performance management, and measurable continuous improvement.
This role is accountable for establishing robust, scalable production flow lines, driving lean transformation across manufacturing operations, and embedding AI-enabled solutions to enhance productivity, quality, and decision-making.
The position ensures safe, compliant, and cost-effective engineering support to manufacturing while safeguarding product integrity and operational excellence in line with AS9100 and relevant regulatory standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Excellence & KPI Delivery Lead the Engineering & Test team to consistently deliver against Safety, Service (speed and reliability), Quality, Delivery, and Cost KPIs.
Design, implement, and optimise production flow lines to improve throughput, reduce waste, and enhance process stability.
Drive lean manufacturing transformation initiatives, embedding structured methodologies (e. g., Value Stream Mapping, 5S, Standard Work, Kaizen, SMED, Visual Management).
Provide high-quality engineering support to Manufacturing and Quality to ensure production continuity and technical robustness.
Lead structured root cause analysis (8D, Fishbone, FMEA, SPC) for technical failures, ensuring effective corrective and preventive actions.
Improve yield, cycle time, and cost efficiency through data-driven process optimisation.
Develop and maintain clear production engineering roadmaps aligned to business strategy.
- AI Adoption & Digital Transformation Champion the responsible adoption of Digitisation utilising AI where appropriate and data analytics within Production Engineering and Test.
Identify and implement AI-enabled solutions to enhance: Predictive maintenance Process optimisation Automated inspection and test Yield analysis Capacity modelling and planning Promote data literacy within the engineering team and foster a culture of evidence-based decision-making.
Ensure AI deployment aligns with governance, compliance, cybersecurity, and ethical standards.
Collaborate with IT, Operations, and external partners to integrate smart manufacturing technologies.
- Compliance, Safety & Governance Ensure full compliance with EHS policies and regulatory requirements.
Maintain high housekeeping and workplace organisation standards.
Strengthen engineering procedures, documentation, and configuration control in line with AS9100.
Ensure production and test processes meet aerospace and high-reliability standards.
Support customer audits and regulatory reviews with confidence and technical clarity.
- Technical Leadership Act as Engineering Lead for nominated products, processes, and improvement projects across the product lifecycle.
Lead capital investment projects for equipment, automation, and process capability enhancement.
Interface with external suppliers and partners for technical development and equipment improvement.
Ensure test strategies are robust, repeatable, and aligned to product reliability requirements.
- Team Leadership & Development.
Set clear, measurable SMART objectives aligned to strategic priorities.
Lead, coach, and develop a team of specialist and multi-skilled Production and Test Engineers Drive accountability, high standards, and performance discipline.
Build capability through structured development plans and succession planning.
Ensure effective resource planning and resilience within the team.
Delegate effectively and empower engineers to own outcomes.
Foster a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and proactive problem-solving.
- Cross-Functional & External
- Engagement
Internal: Collaborate closely with Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, R&D, and Programme Management.
Align engineering priorities with operational and commercial objectives.
Support NPI transitions from design to volume production.
External: Engage technically with customers, design partners, and suppliers.
Represent Production Engineering during technical reviews and audits.
Support continuous improvement initiatives across the supply chain.
Education & Qualifications
- Essential: Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in an Engineering discipline.
- Knowledge & Experience
- Essential: Minimum 2–5 years’ experience in Production Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or Technical Project Management.
- Demonstrated team leadership experience.
- Strong working knowledge of AS9100 and regulated manufacturing environments.
- Experience in high-reliability microelectronics product design and manufacturing.
- Proven experience in materials, process design, optimisation, and industrialisation.
- Experience implementing lean manufacturing principles.
- Exposure to data analytics or digital manufacturing technologies.
Desirable
- Experience with MCM, Thick Film Hybrid, and PCBA technologies.
- Experience implementing AI or advanced analytics within manufacturing.
- Capital equipment specification and commissioning experience.
- Competencies
- Strong, decisive leadership with the ability to motivate and develop high-performing teams.
- Strategic thinker with operational execution capability.
- Advanced problem-solving and root cause analysis expertise.
- Structured, methodical, and detail-oriented approach.
- Change leadership and lean transformation capability.
- Commercial awareness and cost discipline.
- Ability to manage ambiguity and competing priorities.
- Excellent communication and technical report writing skills.
- Confident stakeholder engagement and conflict resolution skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ERP/MRP systems.
- Other Requirements
- Security Cleared (SC) or ability to obtain clearance.
- Willingness and ability to travel as required for business needs.
- What We Can Offer You
- Flexible working practices – we work a 9-day fortnight, offer flexi-time, and work a half day Friday 33 days holiday (inclusive of bank holidays) with the option to buy up to 5 additional days
- Health cash plan – cash back for everyday health expenses
- Additional benefits including access to 24/7 remote GP services, physiotherapy consultations and gym discounts
- Pension scheme with 6% employer contributions
- Life assurance – 4 x annual salary
- Reward and recognition platform
- Discount platform – retail, leisure, gym discounts and more
- Employee assistance programme with access to confidential counselling services
- Support for further training and education
- Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant.
However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
About Spectrum Control
Spectrum Control combines engineering expertise, innovation and manufacturing excellence to enable mission-critical solutions.
Designed to solve complex problems in signal modulation and transmission, Spectrum Control solutions enable high quality product performance in the military and government, space, commercial, aerospace, security, medical, industrial and communications industries.
Through proven experience and innovation, Spectrum Control delivers reliable solutions for the most rugged environments in the world – and beyond.
Our team works to understand each customer’s needs at every level, which leads to long-term partnerships with our customers that transcend transactions and projects, helping to drive ongoing value at all levels of an organization.
Spectrum Control operates by the following guiding principles: safety, integrity, respect, ethics, trust and continuous improvement.
Spectrum Control is dedicated to delivering highly-engineered, reliable products that help save, enhance and protect lives.
The company employs a secure, trusted, innovative, empowered and resilient environment to collaborate across the organization to deliver impactful results to our customers.
Founded in 1981, Spectrum Control brought together the power of several trusted brands and formed a uniquely capable partner for RF/microwave, electromagnetic, and security solutions.
Over the past 70 years, the company’s engineers and technologists have led the way in creating high-quality solutions for demanding environments everywhere.
Today, Spectrum Control's team includes 1,300+ people working across 14 design/manufacturing centers in North America and Europe.
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Production Engineering & Test Manager in Great Yarmouth employer: API Microelectronics Ltd.
Spectrum Control is an excellent employer that values leadership and continuous improvement, offering a dynamic work culture where collaboration with cross-functional teams is encouraged. Employees benefit from a supportive environment focused on safety and organisation, along with opportunities for professional growth in a busy manufacturing setting. The company's commitment to high standards ensures that you will be part of a team dedicated to excellence and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Engineering & Test Manager in Great Yarmouth
✨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 API Microelectronics 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!
We think you need these skills to ace Production Engineering & Test Manager in Great Yarmouth
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 API Microelectronics 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 API Microelectronics Ltd.
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with API Microelectronics 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 API Microelectronics 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.
