Cunningham Covers is seeking a Graduate Manufacturing Engineer to join our manufacturing facility, helping turn clever ideas into bespoke protective solutions.
Location: Maghera, NI, BT46 5DR (Office based role, no remote or hybrid options available)
Salary: £28,000 – £32,000 depending on experience with a salary review after 12 months.
Hours: 8 AM to 5 PM, Monday to Friday.
Contract: Full-Time, Permanent.
About Us
At Cunningham, we design and manufacture bespoke protective covers that solve practical problems for our customers. Our products combine clever design with a tailored approach, protecting what matters while meeting each customer’s requirements. We serve sectors such as Aviation, Aquaculture, Oil & Gas, Agriculture, Industrial and Transport.
We’re looking for a Graduate Manufacturing Engineer who is curious, practical and keen to help improve how we make our products. This is an opportunity to bring fresh ideas into a manufacturing environment where every bespoke solution presents a new challenge.
Working alongside our production and design teams, you will help turn customer requirements into effective manufacturing processes. You’ll get involved in understanding how our covers are made, improving production methods and supporting the introduction of new designs.
You don’t need to arrive with all the answers. We’re looking for potential: someone who asks good questions, enjoys solving problems and is willing to learn from the people making our products.
What You’ll Do
- Support the development and improvement of manufacturing processes for bespoke protective covers.
- Work with design and production colleagues to ensure products can be manufactured efficiently and consistently.
- Help prepare clear work instructions, process documentation and production layouts.
- Identify opportunities to reduce waste, improve workflow and maintain product quality.
- Collect and analyse production information to support practical improvements.
- Assist with trials of new materials, tools and manufacturing methods.
- Investigate production issues and contribute to workable solutions.
- Support safe working practices across all engineering and improvement activities.
What We’re Looking For
- A degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a 3 rd level qualification in relevant discipline.
- Experience in CAD, AutoCad, Solidworks or similar applications.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel and Powerpoint.
- A practical, logical approach to problem-solving.
- An interest in how products are designed, made and improved.
- Good communication skills and a willingness to work closely with production colleagues.
- Attention to detail, initiative and a willingness to get involved on the factory floor.
Relevant university projects, placements and hands-on experience are all valuable.
- 1-3 years’ experience in manufacturing/production facilities or process improvements.
- Knowledge of manufacturing processes.
- Knowledge of LEAN manufacturing.
- Knowledge of ERP systems.
What We Offer
- Annual Bonus Scheme
- Annual pay rises as skills increase
- Extensive and continuous training and development
- Company health insurance
- 32 days holiday per year
- Work clothing supplied
- The opportunity to contribute ideas and see their impact on real products and processes.
- Varied work supporting bespoke products rather than a one-size-fits-all manufacturing approach.
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Manufacturing Engineer in Maghera
✨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 Cunningham Covers, 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 Cunningham Covers 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 Cunningham Covers
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Cunningham Covers, 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 Cunningham Covers 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.
