Senior Manufacturing Engineer
Based in Ampthill, Bedfordshire
Salary from £53,000 to £57,000 + Bonus, 4 day week, Pension
You're the engineer the shop floor calls when a build isn't going to plan. You know why a bonding process keeps failing, how to rework a routing so the line flows properly, and what the BOM should look like before the first kit is picked.
This is a senior manufacturing engineering role on complex electro‑mechanical defence systems. You'll own the manufacturing process for your area from NPI and prototype build through to full rate production and, eventually, end of life.
What you'll actually be doing
- Defining build sequences, process instructions and production layouts for electro‑mechanical assemblies, using lean principles to get flow right first time
- Building and maintaining manufacturing BOMs and routings in SAP
- Specifying new tooling and fixtures, and writing the technical requirement specifications behind them
- Estimating engineering and shop floor effort for new work
- Leading root cause and corrective action when yield or quality drops
- Shaping the site's manufacturing technology roadmap and capital equipment plans, from requirement through to acceptance
- Working closely with production, industrial engineering, quality and design, and pushing back on design when something won't build well
The goal is simple: lower manufacturing cost, higher yield, and programme milestones hit.
What you'll need
- Solid experience as a Manufacturing Engineer, Process Engineer or Production Engineer in a complex assembly environment
- Hands‑on electro‑mechanical assembly process knowledge, including bonding
- Lean manufacturing and Six Sigma tools used for real, not just a certificate on the wall
- Experience managing BOMs and routings in SAP or a similar MRP/ERP system
- Confident producing 2D technical drawings in CAD
- A track record of driving continuous improvement and process change that stuck
- Eligibility for UK security clearance
Nice to have
- Composites processing experience
- PFMEA, control plans or SPC
- A defence, aerospace or other regulated manufacturing background
Why it's worth a look
You won't be one of fifty manufacturing engineers. You'll be the recognised expert for your area, with a real say in how products are built and where the site invests next. The work spans the full product lifecycle, so you see NPI, production and improvement, not just firefighting.
If you're a Manufacturing Engineer ready for more ownership, or a Senior Manufacturing Engineer who wants more influence than your current role allows, this is worth a conversation.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Senior Manufacturing Engineer in Ampthill employer: Cirrus Selection Limited
Join a forward-thinking company in Stevenage or Bristol that champions inclusivity and innovation, recognised as a three-time gold investor in people award winner. With a commitment to employee development, state-of-the-art technology, and a vibrant campus environment, you will have the opportunity to grow your skills while contributing to groundbreaking combat air systems. Enjoy a friendly workplace culture with excellent benefits, including on-site amenities and a supportive community that values your contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Manufacturing Engineer in Ampthill
✨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 Cirrus Selection Limited, 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 Cirrus Selection Limited 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 Cirrus Selection Limited
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Cirrus Selection Limited, 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 Cirrus Selection Limited 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.
