Manufacturing Engineer in Bristol

GKN Aerospace is reimagining air travel: going further, faster and greener! Fuelled by great people whose expertise and creativity sets the standards in our industry, we’re inspired by the opportunities to innovate and break boundaries. We’re proud to play a part in protecting the world’s democracies and are committed to putting sustainability at the centre of everything we do.

At our GKN Filton site, we specialise in the design and manufacture of large complex structural wing assemblies, detailed metallic components and wing systems for both civil and military aircraft. We are seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to lead capital expenditure (CapEx) projects to deploy new production equipment, automated systems, and advanced industrial solutions within an aerospace manufacturing environment.

The successful candidate will manage the end-to-end lifecycle of CapEx projects including concept development, business case creation, budgeting, scheduling, and execution. The successful applicant will work a 4.5-day week, including flexitime in a full-time permanent capacity, equating to a 35 hour week as part of a small team of Manufacturing Engineers.

The successful applicant will:

• Prepare detailed equipment specifications that meet aerospace standards for precision, traceability, and repeatability.
• Design future processes implementing lean tools and methods in accordance with the GKN standard lean tool suite.
• Ensure new equipment meets aerospace requirements such as NADCAP, AS9100, and internal engineering specifications.
• Validate equipment and processes through capability studies (Cp/Cpk), PFMEA, control plans, and process documentation.
• Utilize root cause analysis, preventative and corrective action to reduce/eliminate non-conformances.
• Ensure the delivery of expected benefits by driving projects to completion, on time and on budget, validating performance outcomes, and confirming that all operational, financial, and strategic objectives are fully achieved.
• Build meaningful, lasting relationships with highly skilled operators, ensuring that any systems or equipment introduced are both appropriate and embraced.
• Work closely with Production, Quality, EHS, and Supply Chain teams to ensure seamless industrial deployment.
• Maintain positive, team relationships with internal and external customers, as well as co-workers.
• Continuously improve production and internal processes by implementing Lean initiatives.
• Exemplify a safety-first mind-set and ensure compliance with the GKN Aerospace Health, Safety and Environmental policies and standards.
• Ensure all new equipment complies with aerospace safety and certification rules (e.g., CE marking, machinery directives, EHS regulations).

To help us make a difference, you’ll bring your passion and expertise/talent for what you do along with the following skills, experience, qualifications and attributes:

• Technical expertise in Manufacturing Engineering, with a professional qualification/background (university degree) in engineering (Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical).
• Proven experience in CapEx project management within the aerospace, defense, or high-precision manufacturing sector.
• Practical experience with industrial equipment, automation systems, robotics, machining, or assembly.

• Familiarity with AS9145 APQP process or equivalent.

We're looking for an individual that can manage complex technical interactions and lead long-term projects. You'll need excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to succeed in this role along with a hands-on mindset.

Once you’re on board you’ll get the following perks and benefits:

• A Competitive Salary.
• Industry Leading Pension Scheme - we’ll match your contributions up to 8% on a 1:1.5 basis (Totalling up to 20% Contribution).
• Life Assurance 8 x salary.
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays.
• Flexible working hours including the ability to finish at 12noon on a Friday.
• Income protection.
• Shopping discounts.
• Cycle To Work Scheme.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Virtual GP Clinic for you and immediate family.
• A collaborative, dynamic working environment.

As well as a competitive package we’ll offer you a world of opportunity. We want to see your career fly! We’ll support your career progression by providing you with learning and development opportunities.

Everyone is welcome to apply to GKN. We believe that we can only achieve our ambitions through a coming together of diverse minds who enjoy collaborating in an inspirational environment. Through our commitment to diversity, inclusion and belonging, we’ve created a culture where everyone feels welcome to contribute.