Expleo is currently seeking an experienced Manufacturing Lead Engineer for a 12‑month contract in Solihull. The role will support a prestigious automotive customer in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.
What to Expect
Trim and Final Facilities manage the development and introduction of new and modified facilities for model launches and year changes. The Engineer will ensure installations meet Product Creation and Delivery System (PCDS) and Launch Quality Operating System (LQOS) standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Project manage the planning and implementation of facility installations for new model introductions
- Create detailed facility timing plans in line with manufacturing launch strategies
- Plan and design new and modified facilities to accommodate new models
- Prepare Request for Quotation (RFQ) and technical specifications
- Select suppliers and manage vendor relationships
- Provide feasibility statements for product designs to suit manufacturing processes and facility requirements
- Create and maintain detailed cost trackers through programme approval and beyond
- Achieve equipment capability targets for all new and modified facilities, including operating efficiency and effectiveness goals
- Maintain adherence to customer reliability and maintainability, 8D, MTTR, MTBF, and PM principles
- Resolve technical issues and Escalate when necessary
- Represent Trim & Final Facilities at program meetings and present status updates
- Coordinate and manage the New Equipment Procurement Team (NEPT)
- Provide departmental responses to PCDS & LQOS deliverables and Product Definition Letters
- Support virtual build events by raising and championing issues
- Identify resource requirements for virtual and physical builds
- Ensure achievement of capability for all processes and equipment, including dimensional targets
- Apply lean manufacturing principles and Bill of Process (BOP) / Bill of Facilities (BOF) requirements
- Drive quality planning and analysis for manufacturing
- Balance workload and prioritise the team to meet key business objectives
- Collaborate with multiple teams: GME Technologies, Logistics, Digitals, Maintenance, Production and Programme Management
- Develop engineers through coaching and creator conversations
- Coordinate and lead Go Look See events
- Liaise with downstream teams and manufacturing plants to align processes
- Contribute manufacturing engineering within agile teams
- Develop P6 plans to manage team and programme deliverables, and communicate progress to programme teams
- Benchmark competitors for facility and process strategies
- Drive lean principles across all facets of manufacturing operations
Skills, Experience, and Qualifications Required
- Detailed understanding of NEBOSH and Construction Design Management (CDM) regulations
- In‑depth project and budgetary management experience
- Proven track record of delivering facilities within a manufacturing environment
- Ability to set individual and team objectives and measure performance against them
- Previous experience managing multiple facility suppliers and concurrent projects
- Experience and involvement in product launches
- Degree qualified in a relevant engineering discipline (preferred)
- Knowledge of product development and use of virtual toolsets
- Record of proactive delivery and commitment to meeting deadlines
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Lead Engineer in Birmingham
✨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 Expleo UK LTD, 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 Expleo UK LTD 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 Expleo UK LTD
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Expleo UK LTD, 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 Expleo UK LTD 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.
