Manufacturing Engineer in Ilminster

G&H is a world leader in optical designing, testing and manufacturing. As experts in the technology of light, G&H works with customers to provide optical systems, assemblies, and components for demanding applications. Headquartered in Ilminster Somerset, UK with primary operations in the USA and Europe, G&H is recognised for the breadth of their acousto-optic, electro-optic, crystal-optic, fibre optic, and precision optic products. G&H is recognized as the preferred source for OEMs in the life sciences, industrial, and aerospace and defence industries, with a history of quality and excellence that dates back over seventy-five years. Our success is built on innovation, precision, and the talent of our people. We are committed to developing capability at every stage of a career, from apprenticeships and graduate pathways through to leadership development.

Are you a skilled Manufacturing Engineer passionate about driving innovation and efficiency in a fast‑paced, AS9100 environment? Do you thrive in New Product Introduction (NPI) settings and enjoy leading cross‑functional teams to achieve cost‑effective solutions? If so, we’d love to hear from you! At G&H Ilminster, we specialise in the research, development and engineering of optical elements for aerospace and defence applications. We’re excited to offer the opportunity for an additional Manufacturing Engineer to join our Optical Systems Division.

As a Manufacturing Engineer at G&H, you will be at the forefront of developing and optimising manufacturing processes, including equipment, tooling, fixtures and workflows. Working closely with multidisciplinary teams, you’ll play a pivotal role in delivering high‑quality, cost‑effective solutions while fostering continuous improvement.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the development and implementation of new manufacturing processes and equipment.
• Specify, support and commission new manufacturing equipment (CAPEX).
• Perform key Manufacturing Engineering roles within the NPI process, including DFx input for new products.
• Evaluate and improve existing processes and workflows to enhance efficiency and quality.
• Drive the implementation of LEAN practices and continuous improvement initiatives across the organisation.
• Lead PFMEA activities and capability/repeatability improvement projects.
• Manage testing and replacement of obsolete production consumables.
• Support best manufacturing practices across the G&H Group.
• Deliver tangible results in quality, cost and efficiency while ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• A degree in Mechanical/Manufacturing Engineering or equivalent experience.
• Demonstrable experience in Manufacturing Engineering within an NPI environment.
• Proven leadership experience in multi‑disciplinary teams.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and a results‑oriented mindset.
• Flexibility and resilience to prioritise work in a dynamic, agile environment.
• Attention to detail and the ability to learn and implement new skills.
• Proficiency in process mapping, PFMEA/control plan development and tooling design.
• Experience with 3D CAD software and Microsoft Office applications.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing and Six Sigma (DMAIC).
• Desirable but not required: Awareness of glass machining, thin film coating, metal machining and advanced manufacturing techniques.

WHY JOIN US

• Competitive salary, based on experience.
• Company pension (6% contribution).
• Performance‑based company bonus scheme.
• Health Cash Plan.
• £500 referral bonus for successful employee referrals.

The Company is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants for employment. The Company does not discriminate in employment opportunity or practices on the grounds of gender, race, religion or belief, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by national laws under which the Company operates. Potential candidates should be aware that many of the employment roles at Gooch & Housego are subject to government security and export control restrictions. These restrictions mean that factors such as your nationality, any nationalities that you may have previously held and your place of birth could restrict the roles you are eligible to perform within the organisation. All UK applicants must, as a minimum, be able to successfully complete security vetting to the UK government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard, which includes a criminal record check being performed. Many roles may also require higher levels of security vetting to be completed, where applicants must typically have been continuously resident in the UK for the past five to ten years.