At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and optimise paint manufacturing processes for high-performance sports cars.
- Company: Join Lotus Cars, a legendary brand in automotive innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 vacation days, performance bonuses, and private healthcare.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for continuous improvement and career growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a pioneering team shaping the future of electric sports cars.
- Qualifications: Experience in automotive paint manufacturing and strong problem-solving skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Lotus Cars is renowned for crafting world-class, high-performance, and lightweight sports cars that are celebrated across the globe.
Lotus Cars Limited serves as the company’s manufacturing HQ in the UK, where we proudly produce iconic models such as the Emira and the all-electric Evija.
- As we continue to elevate our capabilities and global presence, we are seeking a
- Senior Manufacturing Engineer – Paint to join our dynamic
Paint team at our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Hethel.
Summary
The Senior Manufacturing Engineer – Paint is responsible for developing, optimising and maintaining robust paint manufacturing processes that deliver world-class quality, safety, cost and delivery performance.
Working within a high-volume automotive OEM environment, the role provides technical leadership across paint operations, supporting current production, new model introductions and continuous improvement initiatives while ensuring compliance with customer, industry and environmental standards.
What You'll Do
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development, optimisation and continuous improvement of paint manufacturing processes to maximise quality, efficiency, throughput and equipment reliability.
- Provide technical ownership of paint application processes, including pretreatment, e-coat, primer, basecoat, clearcoat and associated curing systems where applicable.
- Support new model introductions, engineering changes and product launches, ensuring paint processes are developed, validated and introduced successfully.
- Specify, procure, commission and validate new paint equipment and manufacturing systems, including supplier management, Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT).
- Investigate and resolve paint process and product quality concerns using structured problem‑solving methodologies, identifying root causes and implementing robust corrective and preventive actions.
- Analyse and reduce paint defects including dirt inclusions, runs, sags, orange peel, adhesion failures, colour variation and surface finish concerns.
- Develop, maintain and continuously improve Process Flow Diagrams, PFMEAs, Control Plans, standard operating procedures and manufacturing documentation in accordance with APQP and PPAP requirements.
- Collect, analyse and maintain Control Plan data to monitor process capability, identify trends and ensure ongoing compliance with quality standards.
- Plan, conduct and evaluate paint material and process validation activities, including coating performance testing such as stone chip resistance, cross‑hatch adhesion, jet wash adhesion, humidity resistance, chemical resistance and thermal durability, ensuring products meet both customer and internal performance requirements.
- Interpret test results, recommend process or material improvements and work closely with suppliers and product engineering teams to deliver robust, production‑ready solutions.
- Manage paint process capability through statistical analysis, process monitoring and data‑driven continuous improvement activities.
- Ensure manufacturing equipment, measuring devices and test equipment are calibrated, maintained and fit for purpose, with accurate calibration records and process data maintained in accordance with quality management requirements.
- Maintain accurate engineering records, process documentation and validation reports to support product traceability, regulatory compliance and continuous improvement.
- Ensure the Paint Shop remains audit‑ready by maintaining compliance with ISO 9001 quality management requirements and supporting internal, customer and third‑party audits through effective documentation, process control and corrective action management.
- Drive Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma and waste reduction initiatives to improve Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), First Time Through (FTT), Right First Time (RFT), material utilisation, energy efficiency and environmental performance.
- Support capital investment projects from concept through implementation, ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time and within budget.
- Collaborate closely with Production, Quality, Maintenance, Product Engineering, Purchasing and external suppliers to resolve technical issues and implement process improvements.
- Ensure all paint processes comply with Health, Safety and Environmental legislation, including COSHH requirements, environmental permits and internal company standards.
- Monitor and report key manufacturing KPIs, presenting technical data and improvement plans to engineering and operational leadership teams.
- Provide technical leadership, coaching and mentoring to manufacturing engineers, technicians and production teams, promoting engineering best practice across the Paint Shop.
- Identify and deliver cost reduction opportunities through process optimisation, material efficiency improvements, equipment upgrades and waste elimination initiatives.
- What you'll bring
- Significant experience in automotive paint manufacturing within a high-volume OEM or Tier 1 environment.
- Strong understanding of automotive paint application technologies, coating systems and curing processes.
- Experience of APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, Control Plans and structured problem‑solving methodologies.
- Practical experience of paint performance testing and validation, including adhesion, corrosion, durability and environmental resistance testing.
- Knowledge of quality management systems, particularly ISO 9001, and experience supporting internal and external audits.
- Experience with process capability analysis, statistical process control and data‑driven manufacturing improvement.
- Proven ability to lead continuous improvement projects delivering measurable quality, cost and productivity benefits.
- Experience managing capital equipment projects and equipment commissioning.
- Excellent communication, stakeholder management and technical leadership skills.
Desirable Qualifications
- Degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering or a related discipline.
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt.
- Knowledge of IATF 16949 and automotive quality standards.
- Experience with robotic paint application systems and automated manufacturing technologies.
- Personal Attributes
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving capability.
- Methodical with excellent attention to detail.
- Proactive, collaborative and results‑focused.
- Comfortable working across cross‑functional teams and influencing stakeholders at all levels.
- Passionate about continuous improvement and engineering excellence.
What we offer
- 25 Vacation Days + Bank Holidays: Recharge, explore, or binge‑watch your favorite series with plenty of time to relax and enjoy life outside of work.
- Performance Bonus: Get rewarded for your hard work with an exciting, non‑contractual bonus scheme—because great effort deserves great perks.
- Future‑Proof Pension: Plan for your tomorrow while thriving today with a solid pension scheme to keep your future bright.
- Private Healthcare: Stay healthy and stress‑free with premium healthcare coverage tailored to keep you at your best.
- Additional Information
- This role will be working from our Hethel plant.
- Our Company
Group Lotus is a leading sports car manufacturer with over 75-year long history of iconic designs, groundbreaking engineering and legendary victories on the F1 track.
Today we are transforming into a truly global performance car brand focused on the electrical future.
In 2022 welaunched the Eletre, the world’s first all-electric hyper‑SUV, and in 2023 our fully‑electric Hyper‑GT, Emeya.
As part of the Lotus team, you push boundaries.
Those of the car industry and of your own.
Every member of the Lotus family has some of the pioneering mindset of founder Colin Chapman in them.
Hethel, Norfolk, England has been the home of Lotus for over 60 years, ever since Colin Chapman, our founder, started making championship‑winning racing cars.
In conjunction with production facilities in Norwich, and research facilities near Warwick, our UK sites offer a wide breadth of roles for all disciplines.
We're not just a car company; we're a diverse mix of talent from all walks of life.
At Group Lotus, we firmly believe that diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords but essential pillars of a thriving and successful organisation.
Read more here: Equity, Diversity & Inclusion in Lotus Cars.
Do you want to know what Sophisticated, Rebellious and Pioneering mean for Lotus Cars Limited?
Come and take a look at our career siteand join the incredible adventure: https://lotusukmanufacturing. teamtailor. com/
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Senior Manufacturing Engineer – Paint in Norwich employer: Group Lotus
Group Lotus is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at their Global Commercial site in Coventry, where creativity and innovation thrive. Employees enjoy a supportive culture with ample opportunities for professional growth, alongside attractive benefits such as 25 holidays, private healthcare, and a pension scheme, making it a rewarding place to advance your career in luxury automotive marketing.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Manufacturing Engineer – Paint in Norwich
✨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 Group Lotus, 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 Senior Manufacturing Engineer – Paint in Norwich
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 Group Lotus 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 Group Lotus
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Group Lotus, 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 Group Lotus 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.
