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- Tasks: Ensure efficient production processes and implement improvements in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join Crane Authentication, a leader in innovative security solutions with a global presence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, diverse work culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Diverse workplace committed to inclusivity and equal opportunity.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that drives innovation and enhances product quality in a fast-paced setting.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering or equivalent experience; 1-3 years in manufacturing preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
As a partner to businesses and governments, Crane Authentication offers expertise and cutting-edge innovations that protect and enhance products, secure identities, safeguard revenues and enforce compliance. Customers from different business sectors and levels of government trust our team of 1,250 people for their expertise in R&D, security design, engineering and data-driven insights. We are an integral part of Crane NXT, a c$2 billion dollar business with over 5,000 associates.
As part of our growth we are looking for a Production Engineer in Washington, Tyne and Wear where you will be a key influential member of the global Operations team.
Position Summary & Objective
A Production Engineer ensures stable, efficient, and safe production across printing, coating, converting, finishing, and related manufacturing processes. The role combines hands-on operational support, data-driven continuous improvement (DOE/SPC/CI), technical troubleshooting, and project delivery (ranging from small OEE improvements to capital installations up to £1M). The role is both specialist and generalist as required by the site’s operating model.
Essential Functions Performed by the Position
- Operational Excellence & Daily Support: Monitor and control critical operating parameters to ensure product quality and reduce defects, spoilage, and downtime. Ensure the smooth running of manufacturing processes, including troubleshooting equipment issues and supporting operators. Maintain manufacturing areas and optimise equipment and machinery. Plan and execute CI initiatives leveraging DOE, SPC/6-Sigma methods; present data, conclusions, and recommendations to drive measurable gains in yield, OEE, and cost. Implement incremental process upgrades to improve quality, cost, delivery, safety and environmental performance. Identify and implement process improvements and share best practices across sites.
- Documentation & Standards: Produce and maintain technical documentation (e.g., specifications, job jackets, equipment parameters, process reports, and capacity reports). Support all factory APQP activities and documentation of standards across all assets. Support internal and external audits completing technical corrective actions as necessary.
- New Product Introduction (NPI): Partner with Product Development and Manufacturing to commercialise new and updated products. Ensure a robust hand-off into production, supporting stable ramp-up and long-term capability.
- Projects & Equipment: Identify, justify, specify, install, and commission new or refurbished assets. Deliver factory improvements ranging from small OEE upgrades to £5k-£1M projects. Support maintenance and operations teams to address asset reliability and efficiency challenges.
- People Enablement: Provide mentorship/technical support to process operators.
Success Metrics in Production Engineering
- Yield and scrap/spoilage reduction; first-pass yield and complaint rate improvements.
- OEE uplift and downtime reduction; on-time project delivery and budget adherence.
- Stable NPI ramp (time-to-qualify, process capability indices) and effective documentation quality.
Position Qualifications
Education: Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline preferred (Chemical/Mechanical advantageous); or equivalent technical qualification (HNC/HND) or NVQ Level 3 with strong relevant experience.
Experience: 1-3+ years in manufacturing/engineering; background in printing, coating, converting and/or flexographic environments is advantageous (or similar batch/continuous processes). Demonstrated experience leading engineering/process improvement activities and troubleshooting production issues.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Proficiency with DOE, SPC/6 Sigma methods, and data analysis/presentation. Ability to work with MRP/ERP systems and Microsoft applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); project planning tools (e.g., MS Project) are beneficial. Multi-skilled mindset (mechanical/electrical, and ideally software controls) with strong problem solving; able to partner across Operations, Quality, Product Development, and Maintenance. Awareness of lean techniques and operational excellence practices. Ability to prioritise and work to deadlines.
We value diversity at our company. Everyone who applies with the qualifications will receive consideration for employment without regard to: age, colour, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. We receive a high number of applications, so apologies if we are unable to provide specific feedback. If we feel you are a fit for the role, we’ll be in contact.
Production Engineer in North East employer: Crane Authentication (NXT)
Contact Detail:
Crane Authentication (NXT) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Engineer in North East
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Crane Authentication on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by knowing your stuff! Research Crane's products and recent innovations. Being able to discuss how your skills as a Production Engineer can enhance their operations will definitely impress.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your problem-solving skills! Be ready to share specific examples of how you've tackled production issues in the past. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and ability to drive continuous improvement.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Production Engineer in North East
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Production Engineer role. Highlight any relevant engineering qualifications and hands-on experience in manufacturing processes to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how your background aligns with our mission at Crane Authentication. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, don’t forget to mention specific examples where you've tackled production issues or implemented process improvements. We love seeing how you’ve made a difference in previous roles!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s super easy and ensures your application goes straight to the right team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Crane Authentication (NXT)
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your engineering fundamentals, especially around production processes like printing and coating. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've used techniques like DOE or SPC in past roles.
✨Show Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to share real-life scenarios where you've tackled production issues. Highlight your troubleshooting methods and how you’ve implemented process improvements that led to measurable gains in efficiency or quality.
✨Be Data-Driven
Since the role involves a lot of data analysis, come prepared with examples of how you've used data to drive decisions. Familiarise yourself with key metrics like OEE and yield rates, and be ready to discuss how you’ve improved these in previous positions.
✨Engage with the Team
This position requires collaboration across various departments. Show your interpersonal skills by discussing how you've worked with teams in the past, whether it’s mentoring operators or partnering with product development for new introductions.