ARCA is supporting a growing clean technology business with the appointment of a Manufacturing NPI Engineer. The successful candidate will help turn prototype and pilot builds into reliable, repeatable and cost-effective manufacture.
This is an opportunity for an engineer at an early stage of their career, or someone bringing relevant experience from a technician, quality or production engineering background. You'll work closely with design engineers, suppliers and a contract manufacturing partner, combining practical problem-solving with detailed engineering and manufacturing documentation.
The role
- Support new product introduction from prototype and pilot builds through to controlled outsourced production.
- Work with design engineers to improve design for manufacture and assembly, serviceability, tooling and cost.
- Assess suppliers and component options against capability, quality, cost, lead time and scalability.
- Help define jigs, fixtures, work instructions, test requirements and process controls.
- Support build trials and improvement projects to increase yield, reduce rework and improve process stability.
- Investigate supplier, build and product non-conformances, supporting root-cause analysis and corrective actions.
- Use spreadsheets to develop cost models, supplier comparisons, manufacturing trackers and clear reports.
What we’re looking for
- An engineering degree or equivalent practical experience. Apprenticeship, HNC/HND, technician, quality and production engineering routes are welcome.
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings, bills of materials, specifications and build documentation.
- Practical problem-solving skills and an interest in repeatable, scalable manufacture.
- Confidence working with suppliers and across office-based engineering and manufacturing environments.
- Strong spreadsheet skills and the ability to communicate findings clearly.
- Access to your own transport for occasional planned day visits to suppliers and manufacturing partners.
Exposure to DFM/DFA, PFMEA, control plans, 8D, 5 Whys, lean manufacturing, tooling or process validation would be useful. Experience with electro-mechanical products, external manufacturing partners, ERP/MRP systems or BOM management would also be relevant.
Location and benefits
This is an office-based role in Bristol, with occasional planned supplier and manufacturing partner visits. The role supports outsourced production rather than an internal production line.
Benefits include 25 days' annual leave plus your birthday off, professional development opportunities, a contributory pension, cycle-to-work scheme, virtual GP and employee assistance programme. Group life, income protection and critical illness cover are available subject to eligibility and scheme terms.
If you enjoy understanding how products are built and finding practical ways to improve quality, cost and consistency, we'd welcome a conversation.
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Manufacturing NPI Engineer employer: ARCA
ARCA Consulting offers a dynamic and innovative work environment, making it an excellent employer for those looking to advance their careers in technology. With a focus on employee growth, the company provides opportunities for mentorship and technical development, particularly in integration services using cutting-edge technologies like .NET and Azure. Located in London or Dorset, employees benefit from a collaborative culture that values technical leadership and encourages contributions to high-impact projects in the thriving ecommerce sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing NPI Engineer
✨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 ARCA, 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 ARCA 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 ARCA
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with ARCA, 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 ARCA 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.
