Process Engineer

Responsible to: Production / Business Unit Manager

Main purpose: To support the continuous improvement, development and optimisation of manufacturing processes across the Plumbing & Drainage business, with a particular focus on plastics processing, injection moulding, sheet extrusion and associated manufacturing technologies. The role will focus on improving productivity, quality, safety, reliability and operational performance through the application of engineering principles, process improvement techniques, automation technologies, artificial intelligence and data-driven decision making.

About The Role

• Main Duties & Responsibilities
• Process Improvement & Manufacturing Excellence
  • Work with Engineering, Maintenance and external suppliers on automation projects and equipment upgrades.
  • Assist with the development of long-term automation roadmaps aligned with business growth requirements.
  • Contribute to improvements in manufacturing reliability through modern control and monitoring technologies.
  • Support the implementation of robotics, machine vision, automated material handling and advanced manufacturing technologies where appropriate.
  • Evaluate opportunities to improve process control through advanced sensors, intelligent monitoring systems and automation solutions.
• Digital Manufacturing & AI-Enabled Improvement
  • Identify AI opportunities to improve manufacturing performance, process control and decision-making.
  • Develop AI solutions for optimisation, quality, predictive maintenance, planning and energy reduction.
  • Evaluate digital technologies and assess applicability to the business.
  • Use manufacturing data to generate insights, predictive models and automated reporting.
  • Build data-driven monitoring for moulding and extrusion to improve stability and quality.
  • Support digital capability growth including real-time monitoring, analytics and automation.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally to improve data collection and utilisation.
  • Promote AI tools for engineering problem-solving and documentation.
  • Drive Industry 4.0 innovation and digital transformation initiatives.
• New Product & Process Introduction
  • Support industrialisation and launch of new products and processes.
  • Develop robust processing to meet quality, throughput and cost targets.
  • Support NPI across platforms including moulding and extrusion.
  • Establish process windows, control plans and operating standards.
  • Plan and run trials and improvement activities.
  • Lead manufacturing trials for materials, tooling, dies, automation and processes.
  • Assist commissioning and validation of new equipment.
  • Ensure process capability and documentation before handover.
  • Support capacity expansion and new technology implementation.
• Engineering Projects
  • Participate in capital projects and engineering developments.
  • Prepare technical justifications, plans and business cases.
  • Support equipment upgrades and process improvements.
  • Liaise with suppliers and technical specialists.
  • Ensure safe, effective delivery of project objectives.
  • Support project reviews to confirm operational and financial benefits.
• Data Analysis & Performance Reporting
  • Analyse production data to identify trends, risks and opportunities.
  • Develop dashboards and reports for data-driven decisions.
  • Support KPI systems and performance measurement tools.
  • Use statistical techniques to improve process understanding.
  • Provide management updates on progress and performance.
  • Create visual management tools for operational visibility.
• Training & Knowledge Development
  • Support operator training and capability development.
  • Maintain documentation, work instructions and standards.
  • Promote best practice in plastics processing and CI.
  • Share technical knowledge across teams.
  • Encourage new technologies and digital tools.
  • Champion continuous improvement and automation initiatives.
• Health, Safety & Compliance
  • Ensure safe engineering activities aligned with legislation and procedures.
  • Support risk assessments and change management.
  • Promote safe working and housekeeping.
  • Implement equipment changes safely including automation and digital systems.
  • Comply with policies and quality management requirements.

Required Criteria

• Educated to degree level in an Engineering discipline or plastic-related subject
• 3-5 years experience in similar role

Desired Criteria

• Experience in a manufacturing background
• Results focused with ability to work on own initiative
• Ability to work under pressure and as part of a team
• Good organisational skills and the ability to plan and prioritise projects
• Sound analytical skills combined with a practical approach to problem solving
• Good written and verbal communication

About The Company

At Brett Martin, you'll join a workplace where our teams have created a positive working and learning environment. We have career pathways for everyone, whether you're looking for a specific office role or would like to work hands-on with products. No matter which area of the business you join, you'll find plenty of opportunities to learn new skills and develop a rewarding career.

Company Culture

Brett Martin, established in 1958, is a leading independent manufacturing company based in Northern Ireland, employing around 1,000 people across its UK sites. With a head office in Mallusk, Co. Antrim, it specializes in plastic sheets, roof light systems, and plumbing and drainage products. Known for its commitment to investment in technology, sustainability, innovation, and employee development, Brett Martin is a top Northern Ireland employer. The company boasts a turnover of £195 million, 50% of export sales to over 74 countries, and 25% of its operations are sustainably powered.

Company Benefits

Brett Martin offers a comprehensive range of rewards and benefits to its employees. The company is committed to safeguarding the health, safety, and wellbeing of its staff by providing life assurance, safety wear, HR support, and free car parking. In terms of pay and benefits, employees enjoy competitive salaries, profit-related pay, uniform allowance, and an employer contributory pension scheme. Brett Martin also invests in the development of its employees through access to training courses, progression opportunities, and travel experiences. The company fosters a positive working environment with charity and fun day events, team building initiatives, service-linked holidays, and suggestion scheme rewards.

Salary

Not disclosed

Benefits:

• Performance bonuses
• Retirement plan and/or pension
• Free parking
• Cycle to work
• Life insurance
• Long service recognition