At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead advanced manufacturing projects and drive innovation in the industrial sector.
- Company: Join HDR, a collaborative and inclusive employee-owned company.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, professional growth, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values your unique perspective.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global infrastructure and environmental stewardship.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree and 10 years of experience in manufacturing environments required.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. We foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, constantly asking ourselves: What is our impact on the world? Each role throughout our organisation makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. We believe industry drives progress. As part of our Industrial sector, you’ll help shape efficient, advanced infrastructure and environmental stewardship. We partner with clients across industries to responsibly optimize processes, modernize facilities and solve complex challenges. Our work spans the full project life cycle, from up‑front evaluation and planning studies through design and into construction monitoring and operations. You can help clients push boundaries and meet evolving industrial demands while supporting resilient infrastructure and responsible growth. This isn’t just a job; it’s a chance to engineer smarter solutions, drive industrial innovation and make a lasting impact.
About The Role
We are seeking an Advanced Manufacturing Lead to join our Industrial team. You will support the growth of HDR’s manufacturing-related projects and service lines in the UK across HDR’s Industrial market sector, whilst serving as a Project Manager for Industrial projects across HDR’s portfolio. This position brings together client‑facing leadership, multidisciplinary project management and deep technical expertise to ensure high‑quality outcomes across complex assignments.
Responsibilities
- Provide Subject Matter Expertise for Manufacturing systems on projects across the Industrial Sector, including:
- Material / Process Flow analysis and design
- Industrial Engineering
- Continuous Improvement and Lean Manufacturing
- Familiarity with Time and Safety Studies
- Preventative Maintenance and Inventory Management
- Fit‑Out Interior Construction
- Conveyance / Packaging / Assembly Equipment Layouts and Specifications
- Process Piping
- In-Plant Heating and Cooling Systems
- Industrial Systems
- Interface with other related disciplines, including Industrial Architecture and Instrumentation/Control Systems
- Project Management for both Multi‑Disciplinary as well as Industrial Systems projects
- Provide Mentorship to staff on how to execute Industrial Systems projects
- Support the Recruiting and Retention of staff within the Industrial Systems Service Line globally
- Support projects in other Business Groups, including Architecture and Building Engineering Services with a focus on manufacturing applications
- Leverage the various capabilities within HDR, including in Architecture, Transportation (O&M Facilities) and Building Engineering Services, to grow our Manufacturing support capabilities
- Lead business development activities to support programme growth and client expansion
- Collaborate with Global Business Development Teams
- Contribute to strategic planning, including the development of annual and long‑term goals
- Serve as a Client Manager for key manufacturing clients
- Participate in community and industry events and professional organisations
- Provide oversight of Subconsultants who provide specialty Industrial services to HDR
- Perform other duties as needed
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Architectural, Construction or Engineering related field
- Minimum 10 years related experience
- A minimum 5 years project management experience
- Direct experience in manufacturing environments; agri‑business, Food & Beverage, Materials, Pharmaceuticals, or Aerospace
- MS Office and MS Project experience (Access experience would be a plus)
- Demonstrated leadership, business development and strategic planning skills
- An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee‑owned culture is a must
What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encouraging organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day. Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.
Primary Location: United Kingdom-England-London
Other Locations: United Kingdom-England-Croydon, United Kingdom-Scotland-Glasgow, United Kingdom-England-Manchester
Industry: Industrial
Schedule: Full-time
Employee Status: Regular
Business Class: Industrial Services
Job Posting: Jul 9, 2026
At HDR, we are committed to the principles of employment equity. We are an Affiliated Action and Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants, regardless of criminal histories, arrest and conviction records.
Advanced Manufacturing Lead in Croydon employer: HDR
At HDR, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in the heart of Manchester. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through continuous professional development opportunities and a supportive environment that encourages leadership aspirations. With a focus on meaningful projects in building engineering, we provide our team with the chance to make a real impact while enjoying the flexibility of remote working options.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Advanced Manufacturing Lead in Croydon
✨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 HDR, 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 Advanced Manufacturing Lead in Croydon
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 HDR 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 HDR
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with HDR, 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 HDR 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.
