Manufacture Production Engineer in Hitchin

Reporting to the Value Stream Supervisor, this role is responsible for providing engineering support and expertise to Value Stream to optimise process capability, efficiency, and output. This includes the development, implementation, and continual improvement of manufacturing tools, processes, and systems in alignment with IATF 16949 standards. This role ensures that all activities are executed within agreed timelines while maintaining compliance with quality management requirements and driving best practices in process engineering.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading and sustaining continuous improvement initiatives across all manufacturing activities within the Value Stream, utilising Kaizen events, SMED, Six Sigma, and Value Stream Mapping.
• Driving implementation of Lean practices to eliminate waste, improve efficiency, and optimise flow throughout the workplace.
• Developing, validating, and optimising manufacturing processes to ensure compliance with IATF 16949 requirements, focusing on robust process controls and defect prevention.
• Supporting DFMEA and Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (PFMEA) for new products.
• Ensuring all process and assembly equipment meets safety, quality, and capability standards, preventing hazards and ensuring ergonomic compliance.
• Specifying, procuring, and validating manufacturing equipment, tooling, and fixtures to meet production and quality requirements.
• Supporting adherence to IATF 16949 standards by ensuring robust process documentation, risk assessments, and control plans.
• Collaborating with Quality teams to maintain product conformity and drive corrective actions using structured problem-solving methodologies (DMAIC, 8D).
• Developing and improving Health & Safety practices for all processes, ensuring compliance with site policies and legal requirements.
• Leading cost reduction initiatives through process optimisation, value engineering, and capital expenditure recommendations.
• Providing accurate product costings and feasibility analyses to support business objectives.
• Working with cross-functional teams to support New Product Development by ensuring manufacturing processes are integrated from concept to launch.
• Preparing and submitting reports detailing capital expenditure requirements, including justification and cost analysis.
• Establishing and maintaining process capability studies and monitoring performance against control limits.
• Leading root cause analysis for process-related issues and implementing permanent corrective actions.

The successful candidate will have at least 5 years’ relevant experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment supported by strong hands-on engineering skills and a passion for continuous improvement. They will possess excellent time management and prioritisation skills in conjunction with excellent communication and influencing skills developed through the delivery of cross-functional projects and the engagement of stakeholders.

Crane Building Services and Utilities (BS&U) is part of the Fluid Handling Division of Crane Co., a global, multi-industry company founded in 1855. We design, manufacture, package, and market engineered flow control solutions for the HVAC and Utility sectors, with strong sales into key growth export markets.

We believe that embracing inclusion and diversity is key to our success and as such we are seeking applications from candidates who will contribute their different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences to our business.