At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive operational excellence by improving processes and equipment in manufacturing.
- Company: Join a leading company dedicated to supporting disabled and elderly individuals.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, enhanced leave, and exciting company events.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while developing your engineering skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering and experience in manufacturing processes required.
The predicted salary is between 35806 - 43762 £ per year.
Continuous Improvement Engineer
Role Overview
Astor Bannerman manufactures, supplies, installs and services specialist bathing and lifting systems to support disabled and elderly people and their families and carers.
We have a 30-year track record as a market leader in our field and pride ourselves on being an innovative company in growth phase.
The Continuous Improvement Engineer is responsible for driving operational excellence across the manufacturing business by identifying, developing and implementing improvements to processes, equipment and production methods.
Working closely with Production, Quality, Research & Development, Procurement and Supply Chain, the role provides technical expertise to improve safety, quality, productivity and cost efficiency.
The Continuous Improvement Engineer plays a key role in supporting New Product Introduction (NPI), ensuring products are designed for manufacture and assembly while embedding a culture of continuous improvement throughout the business.
- Main functions and responsibilities
- Continuous Improvement
- Lead and deliver continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing and operational processes.
- Identify opportunities to improve productivity, quality, safety and efficiency using Lean Manufacturing principles.
- Analyse manufacturing data and performance metrics to identify trends and improvement opportunities.
- Drive waste reduction, process standardisation and cost-saving initiatives.
- Facilitate problem-solving workshops using structured improvement methodologies such as Root Cause Analysis (RCA), 5 Whys and Fishbone Analysis.
- Work closely with the Research & Development team to ensure products are designed for manufacture and assembly (DFM/DFA).
- Review and support Engineering Change Notices (ECNs) to ensure manufacturing readiness.
- Develop manufacturing documentation, Bills of Materials (BOMs) and production processes to support successful product launches.
- Manufacturing Engineering
- Provide technical support to Production teams, resolving manufacturing and process-related issues.
- Develop and improve manufacturing processes to increase capability, efficiency and repeatability.
- Design and develop production tooling, fixtures and jigs using CAD.
- Evaluate and specify new manufacturing equipment, tooling and factory layout improvements.
- Ensure manufacturing processes remain robust, safe and capable of meeting customer demand.
- Support the introduction of new products into manufacturing.
- Quality & Technical Support
- Work with the Quality team to investigate production issues and implement corrective and preventive actions.
- Support Root Cause Analysis and verification of corrective actions.
- Ensure engineering documentation and manufacturing data remain accurate and controlled.
- Promote best practice in manufacturing quality and process control.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Build strong working relationships across Production, R&D, Quality, Procurement and Supply Chain.
- Lead or support cross-functional improvement projects from concept through to implementation.
- Communicate technical information effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Support the development of a continuous improvement culture across the business by coaching and mentoring colleagues on Lean tools and problem-solving techniques.
- Measures of Success
- Measurable improvements in productivity, efficiency and manufacturing performance.
- Reduction in waste, rework and manufacturing costs.
- Successful delivery of continuous improvement projects.
- Improved product quality and process capability.
- Successful implementation of projects into production.
- Effective management of engineering changes and manufacturing documentation.
- Positive engagement with cross-functional teams.
Skills & Experience
Essential
- Proven experience in a Design Engineering or Manufacturing Engineering role.
- Degree (BEng or above) in Mechanical, Manufacturing or a related Engineering discipline.
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, assembly and fabrication techniques.
- Experience improving manufacturing processes and supporting production teams.
- Excellent CAD skills, preferably Solid Works.
- Experience with Design for Manufacture (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA), ideally involving sheet metal fabrication.
- Strong analytical, project management and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
Desirable
- Experience implementing Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement methodologies.
- Knowledge of Six Sigma, Kaizen or Value Stream Mapping.
- Experience with ERP systems and Bills of Materials (BOMs).
- Experience within a regulated manufacturing environment.
- Personal Attributes
- Passionate about continuous improvement and operational excellence.
- Proactive, organised and self-motivated.
- Innovative with a practical, hands-on approach.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Able to influence and engage colleagues at all levels.
- Collaborative and team oriented.
- Committed to delivering measurable business improvements.
- Resilient, adaptable and driven to achieve results.
Company benefits include
Annual leave which increases with service plus 3 day Christmas shut down
- Enhanced Sick Pay
- Enhanced maternity & paternity pay
- Your Birthday Off
- Eye Care Scheme
- Medical Expenses Scheme
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Electric Vehicle Scheme
- Fully Funded Company Social Events
- Salary Sacrifice Pension Scheme
- Free tea, coffee & fresh fruit
- Free onsite Parking
- Beyond Routine reward
- Colleague Referral bonus
- Bonus Scheme
- Casual Dress
Job Location
Andoversford, Cheltenham, GL54
Work Pattern
Primarily Office-Based (Hybrid)
Hybrid Working
This role requires a daily presence in our Andoversford office for the majority of the time.
Candidates must have a reliable commute or plan to relocate prior to their start date.
Occasional work-from-home (WFH) days are available as business needs allow, but the position remains predominantly office-based.
Hours are 37.5 per week
Please note that we are unable to provide visa sponsorship at this time.
Applications will only be considered from candidates who are currently based in the UK and already possess the right to work without requiring sponsorship
Continuous Improvement Engineer in Gloucester employer: Astor Bannerman
Kohler Mira is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, empowering employees to thrive in their careers. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, the company offers competitive rewards, career growth opportunities, and a supportive environment where every individual can contribute to meaningful change. Located in Cheltenham, employees benefit from hybrid working arrangements and access to cutting-edge technology, making it an ideal place for those seeking a rewarding and impactful role in compliance engineering.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Continuous Improvement Engineer in Gloucester
✨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 Astor Bannerman, 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 Continuous Improvement Engineer in Gloucester
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 Astor Bannerman 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 Astor Bannerman
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Astor Bannerman, 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 Astor Bannerman 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.
