At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic engineering team to innovate and enhance manufacturing processes in aviation.
- Company: Join GKN Aerospace, a leader in sustainable aviation solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, bonuses, flexible hours, and extensive career development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse culture that values collaboration and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of air travel while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree in Chemical or Industrial Engineering and experience in leading engineering teams.
The predicted salary is between 60750 - 74250 £ per year.
It's great to know you're making a difference to the future of aviation!
Whatever part you play you'll be helping us deliver operational excellence to our customers.
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 a combination of both civil and military aircraft.
We have an new exciting and career defining opportunity for a Manufacturing Engineering Manager within our Chemical Processes & Surface Treatments team who will be Responsible for leading a multi-disciplined, process control focused engineering team that eliminate waste through deployment of a Zero Defect Manufacturing (ZDM) methodology and productivity focused initiatives.
The successful applicant will manage a team of around 8 engineers deploying engineering resources to Production & Development Programs and ensure compliance of these deployed teams to the established functional processes.
You will deliver robust, capable manufacturing process technology as it applies to both materials, tooling, part fabrication and assembly.
- How You'll Contribute
- Exemplifying a safety-first mind-set and ensuring compliance with the GKN Aerospace Health, Safety and Environmental policies and standards
- Maintain and develop internal, customer and regulatory compliant processes and standards
- Develop technical solutions to complex problems.
Delivery of a manufacturing system that fulfils all stakeholder requirements including; Safety, Quality, Productivity & Business case
- Lead engineering teams to deliver measurable, metrics driven results in line with Operational and Program goals
- Develop and deliver manufacturing engineering training strategy for the business. Lead capability & career development of the engineering team
- Build a culture of process control and Zero Defect Manufacturing (ZDM), through designing systems with high process capability
- Responsible for the implementation of tooling and or production planning, from original concept through to production
- Accountable for product development, new product quotes, tool fabrication quotes, first article development, configuration changes that involve cost estimation, schedule coordination, build process definition, and implementation
- Maintain positive, team relationships with internal and external customers, as well as co-workers
- Continuously improve production processes by implementing Lean initiatives
- What You'll Bring
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 in engineering, ideally a Chemical or Industrial Engineering Degree Experience leading a team of engineers in execution of projects & operational support Project / Program Management Experience of managing New Product / Process introduction (industrialisation) & existing production process improvements Ability to influence people, build trust and establish effective working relationships within a global organisation Working knowledge of LEAN processes and practices Working knowledge of quality system models such as ISO9000, AS9100, or D1-#####
Desirable
- Knowledge in Surface Treatments; for example Anodising, Conversion Coating, Passivation, Painting and Shot peening
- Familiarity with AS9145 APQP process or equivalent
- Auditor qualification
- NADCAP process and procedure experience
- Heat Treatment and Metallurgy
- Experience with REACH - Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and restriction of Chemicals
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 we're committed to putting sustainability at the centre of everything we do, opening up and protecting our planet.
With over 16,000 employees across 32 manufacturing sites in 12 countries we serve over 90% of the world's aircraft and engine manufacturers and achieved sales of £3.6bn in 2025.
There are no limits to where you can take your career.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary dependent on experience
- Up to 15% Bonus
- Access to a salary sacrifice EV scheme giving tax and national insurance savings
- Industry Leading Pension Scheme = we’ll match your contributions up to 8% on a 1 : 1.5 basis (Employer max contribution 12% - 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 our career progression by providing you with learning and development opportunities.
- That’s the beauty of being part of a global business, once you're on board you never know where you career journey may take you!
We'll offer you fantastic challenges and amazing opportunities.
This is your chance to be part of an organisation that has proven itself to be at the cutting edge of our industry; and is committed to pushing the boundaries even further.
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 and by living our five powerful principles we've created a culture where everyone feels welcome to contribute.
It's a culture that won us 'The Best Workplace Culture Award'.
By embracing and celebrating what makes us unique we encourage everyone to bring their full self to work.
We also facilitate an accessible recruitment process, so if you require reasonable adjustments at any stage during our recruitment process please get in touch and let us know.
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Manufacturing Engineering Manager employer: GKN
GKN Aerospace is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at our East Cowes site where innovation meets collaboration. With a strong focus on employee development and continuous improvement, we provide ample opportunities for growth while fostering a culture that values teamwork and excellence in aerospace manufacturing. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to driving performance and making a meaningful impact in the industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Engineering Manager
✨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 GKN, 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!
We think you need these skills to ace Manufacturing Engineering Manager
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 GKN 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 GKN
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with GKN, 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 GKN 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.
