At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive continuous improvement in manufacturing and logistics operations with hands-on experience.
- Company: Join DENSO, a global leader in advanced technology for vehicle manufacturers.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, pension scheme, life assurance, and discounts across UK retailers.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with excellent career progression opportunities and support from experienced professionals.
- Why this job: Gain expertise in Lean Manufacturing and make a real impact on operational excellence.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering or related field with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
The predicted salary is between 41000 - 44567 £ per year.
Are you a recent Engineering Graduate with a passion for problem-solving, process improvement and operational excellence? Do you enjoy analysing data, identifying opportunities for improvement and finding smarter ways of working?
DENSO is a global mobility supplier developing advanced technology and components for leading vehicle manufacturers worldwide. At DENSO Marston Ltd in Shipley, West Yorkshire, we design and manufacture high-performance heat exchange units and cooling modules for OEMs across the off-highway construction, agricultural and power generation sectors.
Working Hours & Benefits
- Monday – Thursday: 8:30am – 5:00pm
- Friday: 8:30am – 1:30pm
- Benefits include:
- 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
- Pension scheme with up to 10% employer contribution
- Life assurance (4x salary)
- Permanent Health Insurance (PHI)
- Subsidised canteen
- Discounted gym membership
- Discounts across hundreds of UK retailers
- Free onsite parking
- Structured development and career progression opportunities
The Role
As a Graduate Continuous Improvement Engineer, you will play a key role in driving continuous improvement across our manufacturing and logistics operations. Working closely with experienced engineers and operational teams, you will analyse processes, identify opportunities for improvement and support the implementation of Lean Manufacturing initiatives that improve efficiency, quality, safety and productivity. This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment while developing expertise in process improvement, industrial engineering and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct standard work rate setting and time & motion studies
- Analyse manufacturing processes to identify opportunities for improvement
- Utilise Lean Manufacturing techniques to improve production capacity, output and cycle times
- Support safety and ergonomic improvement initiatives across manufacturing operations
- Develop and optimise manufacturing floor layouts
- Lead and promote Lean principles and continuous improvement activities
- Participate in key improvement projects across manufacturing and logistics functions
- Create and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and work instructions
- Map product and process flows using Value Stream Mapping techniques
- Analyse operational data and translate findings into practical improvement solutions
- Support Kaizen activities and continuous improvement programmes throughout the business
What We're Looking For
- Degree qualified in Engineering or a related discipline
- Understanding of manufacturing and Lean principles such as:
- Process Mapping
- Line Balancing
- 5S
- Kaizen
- Kanban
- Process Control
- Method Studies
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent organisational and administrative abilities
- Ability to interpret and analyse data effectively
- Self-motivated with the ability to work on your own initiative
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to influence and engage colleagues at all levels
- Flexible and adaptable approach within a busy manufacturing environment
- Strong team player with a continuous improvement mindset
Why Join DENSO?
This is more than a graduate engineering role. It's an opportunity to become part of a global organisation committed to innovation, continuous improvement and developing future engineering talent. You'll gain exposure to advanced manufacturing techniques, Lean methodologies and large-scale improvement projects while working alongside experienced professionals who will support your development. If you're an ambitious graduate looking to build a successful career in manufacturing, process improvement and operational excellence, we'd love to hear from you.
Trainee Engineer Field-based in Shipley employer: Heybridge Associates
DENSO Marston Ltd in Shipley, West Yorkshire, is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its employees. With a strong commitment to innovation and continuous improvement, the company offers structured career progression opportunities, a supportive work culture, and a comprehensive benefits package including generous holiday allowance, pension contributions, and discounts across various retailers. Joining DENSO means becoming part of a global leader in mobility solutions, where you can gain hands-on experience in a dynamic manufacturing environment while working alongside seasoned professionals dedicated to your success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Engineer Field-based in Shipley
✨Get Hands-On with Local Manufacturing Events
Dive right into your local manufacturing scene by attending trade shows and expos. These events are goldmines for meeting industry professionals and getting your name out there. Plus, you might even stumble upon trainee opportunities at booths or networking sessions!
✨Join Manufacturing Associations or Groups
Get involved with organisations like the Institute of Mechanical Engineers or the Manufacturing Technologies Association. They often have events for budding trainees and can help connect us with companies looking for fresh talent, like Heybridge Associates.
✨Leverage Your Educational Resources
If you’re currently studying, don't forget to tap into your university's career services. They often have direct connections with local manufacturers and might even host career fairs where you can chat with representatives from companies like Heybridge Associates.
✨Apply through Opportunities Like Ours
Don’t miss the chance to apply directly through our website for that trainee role at Heybridge Associates. We make it easy for you to stay updated on the latest openings and ensure your application lands right where it needs to be.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Engineer Field-based in Shipley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Technical Skills:In manufacturing, it's super important to showcase any technical skills you have, like proficiency with machinery or understanding production processes. Make sure to list any relevant coursework, projects, or certifications that demonstrate your hands-on abilities in your CV.
Be Ready to Learn:As a trainee, your eagerness to learn can set you apart. In your cover letter, emphasise your motivation to gain knowledge in the manufacturing field, and don’t forget to mention any previous experiences where you’ve quickly picked up new skills or adapted to new environments.
Keep It Clear and Concise:When crafting your CV and cover letter, clarity is key. Use straightforward language and structure to make your application easy to navigate. Employers in manufacturing appreciate directness, so let your experiences and skills shine without any fluff.
Show Team Spirit:Manufacturing is often a team effort, so highlighting your teamwork skills can make a big difference. Include examples from school or previous work where you contributed to a group project or collaborated effectively with others in your CV or cover letter.
How to prepare for a job interview at Heybridge Associates
✨Know Your Production Processes
Before you head into the interview with Heybridge Associates, brush up on the key manufacturing processes and methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma. Trainees are expected to show a basic understanding of how production lines operate, so being able to nod your head and engage in conversation about them will score you major points.
✨Highlight Your Hands-On Experience
As a trainee in manufacturing production, showing that you have some hands-on experience—whether from coursework, projects, or part-time work—can really make you stand out. Bring any relevant examples of how you’ve worked with tools or machinery, or any experience you’ve had with health and safety protocols.
✨Prepare for Practical Assessments
Be ready for potential practical assessments during your interview. Companies like Heybridge Associates often want to see how you might handle real-world tasks, so you might be asked about handling specific machinery or solving on-the-spot production issues. Practising these scenarios can really help you feel confident.
✨Show Your Willingness to Learn
In a trainee role, companies know you're not going to know everything, so emphasise your eagerness to learn and adapt. Share experiences where you've had to quickly pick up new skills or knowledge. This openness to growth will resonate well with the hiring team at Heybridge Associates.